The magic of the Met gala faded as Blossom and Raven returned to their separate worlds, each hiding a secret that threatened to keep them apart.
In the Fairies’ Forest, Blossom’s life was a whirlwind of royal duties. She darted from tree to tree, her orange hair streaming behind her as she settled disputes between woodland creatures and organized forest-wide celebrations. Every spare moment, she’d reach for her phone, eager to text Raven.
“Just stopped a war between rival squirrel clans. You?” she’d type, smiling.
But before she could send it, a group of panicked pixies would zoom up, begging for help with some new crisis. Blossom would sigh, tucking her phone away. “A princess’s work is never done,” she’d mutter.
Meanwhile, in his sprawling, gothic castle, Raven prowled the shadowy halls, phone in hand. He kept checking for messages from Blossom, the silence eating away at him. To distract himself, he reorganized his library of ancient tomes and even attempted to cook using his long-neglected kitchen (which ended in a small fire and a lot of smoke).
But nothing could keep his mind off Blossom for long. He found himself staring out the window, imagining her laughing face in the clouds.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Blossom managed to send a quick text:
“Sorry for disappearing! Life’s been crazy. Rain check on that coffee?”
Raven’s heart leaped. He wanted to play it cool, but his fingers flew across the screen:
“No worries! I’ve been swamped too. Coffee sounds great! When are you free?”
Blossom felt a pang of guilt. She really liked Raven, but how could she explain that she was a fairy princess with a kingdom to run? She stared at her phone, unsure how to respond without revealing her secret.
Days passed, and Raven’s excitement turned to worry. Had he said something wrong? Was Blossom losing interest?
He decided to take a chance. “I’ll be in the city next week. Want to meet up?”
Blossom’s heart sank when she saw the message. She longed to see Raven again, but the upcoming Firefly Festival needed her full attention.
“I’m so sorry, I can’t make it,” she replied reluctantly. “Maybe another time?”
Raven felt crushed. He tossed his phone aside and slumped into his favorite armchair, fangs glinting in the moonlight. The castle suddenly felt colder and lonelier than ever.
As night fell, Raven stood on his balcony, gazing at the dark forest below. Miles away, Blossom perched on the highest branch of her favorite tree, looking up at the same stars. Both felt the weight of their secrets, wondering if they’d ever find a way to bridge the gap between their worlds.
