The next morning ,the hue of sunlight filtered through the slightly raised pure animalistic green curtains , peony who sat at the dressing mirror yawned ,having spent the last minutes of last night making sure Asher's sixth birthday decoration was brilliantly carried out making sure a remarkable and unforgettable one. She felt tired yet energetic .
Peony's pov.
I took a last glance in the mirror and let out a heavy sigh. How the hell had I gotten into this? The off shoulder black velvet dress hugged my body ,accentuating my slender and curvy figures making me feel somewhat exposed,bold and yet dazzling with power . Giving off a boss lady vibes. My silver heels clicked against the floor as I shifted slightly and I could see the way my hair, neatly tied back in a ponytail, added structure to my already endowed face. A simple diamond earrings and a red purse , catching the light just right. I smiled softly, recalling the wonderful memories from yesterday. It had been a day filled with laughter, and I was grateful to have been part of her happiness. I twirled in front of the mirror, my heart swelling with joy. I felt like a real-life doll.
As I hummed along to the beautiful song "Heaven," a wave of warmth washed over me. Singing always soothed my nerves, wrapping me in a comforting embrace.
My gaze drifted to the heavy jewelry sprawled across the bed, and I exhaled loudly, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety.recalling Emma's enthusiastic words when she placed the boxes jewelries in my hand earlier.
"You should wear it! It will be a perfect match for you and Asher, although Asher's into light princess jewelry," Emma chirped, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm as she placed the jewels in my hands.bit giving your own demeanor you and Asher will really look good wearing identical jewelries.
"No, Emma, I appreciate it, but I can't wear it," I had replied, my voice barely above a whisper, my heart racing at the thought.
"Why not, Peony? You are our sister and our friend. Please don't reject the gift," she insisted, her brow furrowing in disappointment as she tossed the box of jewelry back into my hands.
"I…" I hesitated, unsure of how to articulate my feelings.
"Won't you accept it, even if it's coming from me, Mama?" A soft voice whined from behind us, causing us to turn.
Asher had just woken up from her nap, her eyes wide with excitement as she looked forward to her birthday.
"Asher…" I chided gently, taking a couple of steps toward her while trying to maintain my composure. "I would love to, but I'm not a fan of heavy jewelry. I prefer peony flowers—anything but something so flashy."
"It's not a problem, Mama! You just have to wear it until I cut my cake." She cupped my chin, her smile radiant. "You will look beautiful in it, just like peonies and roses and violets…"
"Okay, Asher, I accept the gift. Happy?" I said, my heart melting as her smile widened. I couldn't help but gently squeeze her cheek, eliciting a delightful giggle from the little ball of joy. I simply couldn't refuse her.
Presently, I pulled the chain around my neck, smiling as I caressed it, captivated by the hypnotic diamonds that sparkled against my skin.
After putting on the last touch of makeup, I ambled down the stairs, my heart fluttering with anticipation.
---
**Dragon's POV**
I led Asher, blindfolded, to her room. When she opened her eyes, her mouth fell open in awe at the sight of the new princess dresses.
"It's for me!" she clamored, her excitement palpable.
"Yes, it's a princess dress, and we have only one princess, and that's you," I said, my heart swelling with pride.
She gasped, her eyes wide as she covered her mouth with her hands, utterly spellbound.
"It's the world's best dress! I love it! I will look like a princess, right?" she asked, her voice filled with wonder.
"You are a princess," I said, placing a crown on her head. She immediately hugged me tightly, tears streaming down her cheeks.
"I love you, Dada! You are my superhero, and we are inseparable! Thank you so much!"
"Asher," I squealed, pulling her closer. "You are my daughter, my princess, and my whole world. I love you very much, just like your mama loves you."
"Really?" she asked, her eyes lighting up at the mention of her mother.
"Of course, Asher. Your mama's love can never be measured. She loves you like the moon loves the stars, just like your Dada. Always remember, no matter where you are, you are Daddy's little girl."
I quickly pulled her up just as the door clicked open.
"Mama!" I froze momentarily as I turned toward her.
"You…" I stuttered, amazed by her total transformation.
"Can I help Asher dress up?" she requested, her tone a mix of displeasure and determination. It was an uncomfortable situation, and I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks as I watched her, desire flickering in my eyes, which didn't go unnoticed by her. She stiffened.
"Can I help?" she repeated, glaring fiercely into my eyes. Something about her drew me in, igniting a pool of wondrous wants and desires.
"Dada, what do you think? You seem so engrossed in your thoughts," Asher chimed in, her voice filled with innocent curiosity as she waited anxiously for my approval. I nodded, shifting my gaze back to the little lady, who had turned as red as a tomato. "Get quickly dressed so you can see your surprise, will you?"
"Sure, Dada! Run along!" she lightly pushed me, amusement dancing in her eyes. I silently raised my brows, taking one last glimpse of the enchantress before I could open my mouth to speak.
She pursed her lips, lowered her brows, and shot me a death glare.
Her strong reaction disconcerted me. I tilted my head, letting out a sigh as I attempted to control my emotions before walking away.
---
**Author's POV**
Peony took her time, transforming the little girl into a living princess doll.
"It's… it's beautiful," Asher exclaimed, excitement clear in her voice, her eyes shimmering with joy.
"Do you like it?" Peony asked, her tone controlled, but her blue orbs sparkled with exuberance as she approached the mirror with graceful strides.
"I'm thrilled, Miss Peony! It's perfect!" Asher halted in front of the mirror, her smile radiant.
Her eyes flashed with delight.
"I would say you are terrifically endorsed by your favorite idol," Peony said, holding Asher's shoulder, barely able to contain her happiness. She bent down to Asher's height and fastened the peony necklace around her neck.
"Happy birthday!" she said, her voice warm as she touched the butterfly pendant.
"Oh… my… it's beautiful! I love it!" Asher exclaimed, staring lovingly into Peony's eyes. Something flickered in Peony's gaze—something akin to awe before love replaced it, and a smile spread across her lips.
"You are the best," Asher said, leaning closer, her gaze focused on the locket to emphasize her point. Each word felt like a jolt of electricity to Peony, and happiness poured through her.
"It's meant for your close relations, dear. You and your Dada's picture will fit perfectly in the locket," Peony stated, beaming at her, her heart swelling with affection.
"You're also part of the family. I drew a picture," Asher said in a low tone.
Peony gasped as she brought the picture into view. What did Asher mean? She thought.
"You, along with Ash, Emma, and Dad, are part of the family. You are my family and also important to me because you added meaning to my life," Asher said, her soft voice deepening with sincerity. Peony struggled to contain the emotions consuming her. How could Asher include her as part of her family without truly knowing her?
"Thank you, Asher. I love you. You are the kindest soul I have ever met, and I'm so happy I met you," Peony said, throwing her arms around her as tears fell.
Overcome with emotion, she glanced at the picture again. Realization dawned upon her when she didn't see a trace of Nora's picture in it. Asher never loved Nora; she was just lonely and isolated, needing warmth.
"Come here, princess," Peony said, pulling her into a hug.
Meanwhile, Nora stood facing the mirror, a smug grin on her face.
Just a matter of minutes, and everything will be under her control. Just you wait, Peony and Asher. She walked over to the poisoned perfume, twisting it in her hand, impressed with her own accomplishment.
Gracefully, she sauntered downstairs.
---
**40 Minutes Later**
Peony looked up and saw a crescent moon glowing in the inked sky, fragments of clouds scattered around it. Staring up at the moon, she ambled into the garden.
A moan of relief escaped her as her feet touched the dewy grass. The soft wetness felt heavenly against her skin, enlivening her spirit.
She strolled over to the fountain, leaning forward. The corners of her lips tugged up in a gentle smile as she felt the tiny droplets of water kissing her face. It was so soothing, transporting her back in time to when she was just Peony, a small performer in Orlando.
"Why did you isolate yourself here, sister?" a gentle voice said from behind her, making her swivel around.
"Asher, Emma, and Ash!" she gasped.
"What are you three doing here? Aren't you supposed to be cutting the cake right now?" she inquired, shock lighting up her face.
"Not without you, Mama! You have to be there before we cut the cake." Asher looped her arm around Peony's, her eyes sparkling with determination.
"Don't you want to see me blow out the candles? You won't refuse, right?" she muttered, her eyes wide with hope.
"N-no, Asher, of course I will!" Peony quickly pulled her daughter into her arms and walked into the living room.
Asher smugly looped her arms around Peony as everyone's eyes turned toward them.
It seemed Asher had excused herself earlier to have a moment of peace, but she was adamant about bringing her best idol back to the party.
"You are here." All of Peony's momentary happiness crumbled when she heard the voice she was all too familiar with. The smile on her face faltered, replaced by disdain for the man standing before her.
Her eyes flashed with anger.
"Yes…" she replied, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside.
She clenched her fists, struggling to control her rising anger. Unmoved by her fury, he bent down to her height, staring deeply into her eyes.
"The cake…" she replied, her voice cold as she glared at him. He wobbled his lips, then steadily lifted Asher into his arms, walking toward the aisle as Peony, Emma, and Ash stood behind.
Nora seethed after them, waiting for her father's action or for her to take matters into her own hands.
Slowly, she strode forward and stood beside Asher and Dragon, hand in hand.
"I want to appreciate every one of you who acknowledged my invitations. Though I hoped it would be brief, I wish you to understand the heart of this father and his daughter. I want it to be memorable for you, darling, because I love you," he spoke, hugging Asher. Nora rolled her eyes, seething with disdain. Just a few minutes left to end this miserable plunge, she thought spitefully.
The crowd clapped, showering the girl with love and kind words.
Asher sweetly blew out the candles and, one by one, fed the cake to her family.
She bent down to Peony's level and softly muttered, "Happy birthday, Asher," as she presented a box to her. Asher took the box eagerly.
"It's a new set of perfume materials. I presume you love perfumes so much, and I bought you one," Nora said, mockery clear in her tone.
Peony lowered her face, nervously smiling. She was beginning to miss her home in Orlando.
Asher rushed forward, taking Peony by the hand, interrupting her thoughts. Peony widened her eyes in awe, taken aback by the little child's enthusiasm.
"Thank you, Miss Peony! You made me realize what I want to be. You are my greatest idol and your number one fan."
Peony's face turned a deep shade of red, and she nearly knocked Asher down as she clenched her fists tightly at her sides.
At that very moment, the lights in the living room shut off. Murmurs filled the room as the servants scurried around with flashlights, searching for the light switch. A few minutes later, the lights flickered back on.
"Where is Asher?" Peony limped forward, shrieking when she found the box on the floor with no trace of her daughter.
"Asher!" Emma squeaked loudly from a distance, her heart constricting with fear.
"Asher! Where is Asher?" Peony cried out, panic rising in her chest.
Dragon gulped as cold beads of sweat formed on his forehead. He knitted his brows, the word "kidnapped" ringing ominously in his mind.