Alpha Eric's Promise, Protecting those he loves

Meeting Lily

Ella's POV

"Of course I'll have to! You're starting fresh here. I wanted to make sure you felt loved and supported from the get-go." Lily said.

 "Buckle up, Ella! We've got a bit of a drive ahead."

I obliged, settling into the plush leather seat of her sleek, black SUV.

As we navigated the Chicago streets, Lily pointed out landmarks and shared stories about the city's history. We chatted effortlessly, catching up on each other's lives.

Before long, we left the city limits behind, entering the picturesque suburbs. Tree-lined streets, manicured lawns, and grand homes whizzed by.

"Where are we headed?" I asked, curiosity piqued.

"My place," Lily replied, smiling mischievously. "You're staying with me for a few days, till you get settled."

I protested, but Lily insisted. "It's no trouble, Ella. Mom's away on business, and the mansion's empty. You'll have all the space you need."

Mansion? I exchanged a skeptical glance with Lily, but she just chuckled.

As we turned onto a private drive, my jaw dropped. The "mansion" was a stunning estate, sprawling across acres of lush greenery.

Lily grinned.

 "Welcome to Oakwood Manor."

We pulled up to the grand entrance, where a warm glow spilled from the windows. Lily led me inside, revealing the mansion's interiors, marble floors, and lavish artwork.

"Wow, Lil... this is breathtaking," I breathed.

She laughed. "Glad you approve. Make yourself at home, make yourself comfortable."

As we explored the estate, I marveled at the library, indoor pool, and private cinema.

Lily showed me to my room, a serene oasis with a private balcony overlooking the gardens.

"Rest, unpack, or explore, whatever you need," she said, handing me a key.

I thanked her, feeling grateful for this haven. As I settled in, the silence and tranquility enveloped me, soothing my travel-weary soul.

Later, Lily and I joined forces in the kitchen, whipping up a feast of gourmet pasta and laughter.

Over dinner, we shared stories, our bond growing stronger each passing day.

As night fell, I gazed out at the starry sky, feeling grateful for this new life, and for friends like Lily who made it shine brighter.

My friend... Lily called. I'll have a surprise for you tomorrow. My mother just called me, she is coming in the next two days.

I'm taking you to your new apartment, where you'll feel like home, explore your private and enjoy your stay here in Chicago. I do not want my mother asking you series of questions. I have to hide you for a while, before she knows you are here. Lily said.

I nodded. I hope I'm not bothering you or your mother? I asked.

Not at all! I are my friend, you can't bother me for any negative trait. I called you here, enjoy your stay.

 Lily's eyes sparkled.

Together, we collected my luggage and went through the streets the following morning. Lily chatted excitedly about her plans for us, from exploring Millennium Park to trying Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza to keep me company any time.

As we drive to my new mansion, the air invigorated me. Lily noticed my gaze drifting toward the painted building.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" she asked, smiling. "Breathtaking," I replied, feeling a sense of wonder.

 Lily was expectingly pointing out landmarks and hidden gems. "So, how are you feeling now?" Lily asked, her tone softer. I hesitated, unsure how much happiness to reveal. "A mix of emotions. Excited for this new life, but also nervous."

Lily nodded understandingly. "You're strong, Ella. You'll thrive here. And I'm just a phone call away."

Her words of encouragement meant the world. With Lily by my side, I felt more confident about facing the challenges ahead.

As she showed me around my new apartment, Lily's eyes widened. "Wow, Randolph Towers! Fancy!"

I chuckled. "Thanks to my mom's help."

We pulled up to the bedroom, and Lily helped me unload my suitcase.

"Want me to coming up and checking you out?" she asked.

"Yes, any time any day. I think I need some time to settle in." I said and Lily nodded. "Understood. Dinner tomorrow? I'll introduce you to the best pizza in town." She said.

I smiled, grateful for her warmth. "Sounds perfect."

With a final hug, Lily handed me a small package. "Welcome gift. Open it later."

As I watched her drive away, I felt grateful for friends like Lily, who made starting anew feel less daunting.

I called her few minutes later to thank her one more, for this wonderful opportunity.

"Listen, Ella, I know you need time and space, but if you ever need someone to talk to or just listen, I'm here. You're not alone, okay?" 

Lily's words touched my heart.

"Thanks, Lily. You're the best. I'll keep that in mind." I blinked back tears, feeling grateful for our friendship.

"Thank you, but don't forget to take care of yourself and those babies." Lily's voice softened.

"I will. Bye, Lily. Love you." I smiled, feeling a sense of peace wash over me.

"Love you too, Ella. Stay strong."

The next morning, Lily and I set out to explore Chicago. We started at Millennium Park, strolling through the beautiful Lurie Garden and admiring the iconic "Cloud Gate" sculpture (or "The Bean," as Lily called it).

As we walked, Lily shared stories about the city's history and architecture. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and I found myself captivated by the vibrant energy of the city.

We stopped at a street vendor for Chicago-style hot dogs and enjoyed them in the park, people-watching and laughing.

Next, we visited the Art Institute of Chicago, where Lily introduced me to her favorite works of art, including American Gothic and Nighthawks.

After a delightful afternoon of art and culture, Lily suggested a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan.

As we sailed across the calm waters, the city transformed into a breathtaking colors.

"This is incredible," I breathed, snapping photos.

Lily grinned. "Told you it'd be amazing."

As the stars began to twinkle, we docked and headed to Navy Pier for dinner and entertainment.

Over dinner, Lily asked about my plans for the future.

"What do you hope to achieve in Chicago, Ella?"

I hesitated, unsure how much to reveal.

Lily's encouraging smile helped me open up. "I want to start fresh, leave the past behind. Build a new life for myself and... my children."

Lily's eyes sparkled. "You're going to do amazing things, Ella. I'm honored to be part of your journey."

As the night wore on, we strolled along the pier, enjoying the lively atmosphere and each other's company.

It's getting late, we drive to my mansion. Lily promise to show some parts of the buildings. After dinner, she hold my hand, smiled warmly as she led me through the grand foyer of Oakwood Manor.

 "Welcome to your new home, Ella." I marveled at the chandelier, sweeping staircase, and lavish artwork adorning the walls.

"Wow, Lily, I don't know that this mansion is so big, this is breathtaking," I breathed.

She chuckled. "Mom's passion project. She loves interior design."

As we explored the mansion, Lily pointed out her favorite rooms, the library, music room, and sunroom.

We entered a stunning library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a cozy reading nook.

"Your mom has incredible taste," I said, running my fingers over the leather-bound books.

Lily grinned. "She does. Now, let's get you settled."

She led me upstairs, a serene oasis with a private balcony overlooking the gardens.

"Your sanctuary," Lily said, opening the door.

I gasped at the beautifully decorated space, plush carpet, soft linens, and elegant furnishings.

"It's perfect," I exclaimed.

Lily smiled. "Glad you like it. Make yourself at home."

The room was equipped with everything I needed, a spacious walk-in closet, marble bathroom, and comfortable sitting area.

Lily handed me a key to almost three bedrooms. "You're free to explore the mansion, but this is your private space."

I thanked her, feeling grateful for her hospitality.

As I began to unpack, Lily helped, chatting about her favorite childhood memories in the mansion.

Once settled, Lily suggested a relaxing bath and dinner in the sunroom.

"Sounds heavenly," I agreed.

As I soaked in the tub, surrounded by scented candles and soft music, I felt my tension melt away.

Later, we dined on gourmet cuisine, watching the sunset through the sunroom's floor-to-ceiling windows.

"This is the life," I sighed contentedly.

Lily smiled. "You deserve it, Ella."