Lost Memories

Third Person's POV The king silently observed from the window of the hall when suddenly, one of his trusted men entered. Even without looking, he recognized him based on his presence. 'Did they launch another attack after what happened at the supermarket?" he calmly asked. Though in truth, he felt a surge of anger because their enemies had claimed a new victim. 'None yet, Your Highness. For now, that incident remains the latest instance of their recruitment. We have also found a way to prevent it from becoming public," the newcomer answered. The king sighed. 'Most likely, he is already preparing a plan against us. That's why he has been strengthening his forces in recent months." He turned around to face the person who was addressing him. 'Do you know that she was also present during that incident? Aren't you at all a bit concerned?" The person smiled broadly before shaking his head. 'I have great trust in her. Besides, I know that at this point, she is gradually discovering things about herself. Moreover, I feel more at ease now because he was also there." The king couldn't help but smile. 'Yeah. You're right. As long as they're on each other's side, there's nothing to worry about." *** Kyle Ethan's POV 'Are you already sure about this?" Vince asked seriously. I closed my eyes and rested my head on the couch. 'Yes. We've done everything we could, but we still haven't gained anything." 'I told you before. Only the king and queen are our hope. When will we return to the palace?" I felt Hiro sitting beside me. 'Tonight. Actually, I have this weird feeling. I feel like something bad is going to happen, so we need to hurry." Honestly, I couldn't understand my own feelings. Yesterday, just watching Nicole's smiling face while she was telling a story made me so happy. But I don't know why suddenly I became anxious. Until now, that's how I still feel. If I could only stay by her side all day, I would be more than willing to do so, just to make sure she's safe and protected. 'I hope we find out the truth soon. So that Nics won't be scared and confused anymore." I opened my eyes and saw Miley pouting. They've really grown close to Nicole. 'Shit!" We all turned to Kira. He looked troubled. 'What's the matter?" He sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. 'We almost forgot. The eclipse is happening tomorrow. That's why we really need to go to the palace. Especially you." He stared at me intently. 'Oh, by the way, Kyle! It's the time when we'll receive more power. So, you'll also be able to protect Nics. I'm so excited!" Reiri giggled. I just rubbed my face. Oh, right. As far as I know, we need to stay in the palace for a few days after the eclipse. 'Don't worry, Brother. We'll be together anyway," Miley assured me. I shook my head. 'That's not what I'm worried about." She smiled mischievously at me. 'Is it Nicole? It's just a few days that you won't see each other. Don't worry, we'll also check on her here." I couldn't help but smile at her. It's a good thing my sister is always there to lighten my mood. 'Love really does wonders. That's why I don't want to fall victim to it," Hiro commented jokingly. Reiri coughed. 'Really? Haven't you been a victim yet?" She gave him a meaningful look. Hiro suddenly fell silent and exchanged glances with her. We were all confused, shifting our gazes between the two. Does Reiri know something we don't? For the very first time, they caught my interest. 'I don't know what you're talking about," he said emphatically before disappearing suddenly. 'Hey, what was that?" Vince gave Reiri a questioning look. She shrugged, then stood up and walked away. She looks so pissed. 'Rei, wait! I'm coming with you!" Miley immediately followed her. They really can't be separated. 'Well, that's kind of strange, huh?" Kira shook his head while smiling like an idiot. I also stood up. We didn't attend classes all day, and I still haven't seen Nicole. We only saw each other last night. But I don't know why I already miss her. I shook my head. What the hell did that human girl do to me? 'I'll be leaving too—" Suddenly, my head started hurting, so I just sat down on the floor. 'Kyle!" I heard both of them shout. 'What's happening to you?" I felt Vince shaking me, but I couldn't manage to speak. Then suddenly, somewhat familiar memories flashed in my mind. 'I'm sure that you're going to be the most beautiful bride in our wedding," I said with a smile while lying side by side with her on the grass. 'Of course! No matter what I wear or how I style myself, I am truly beautiful." She giggled. 'Yeah, yeah. If that's what you said," I chuckled when I saw her pout. I felt like kissing her. 'It seems like you're just forcing yourself!" She was about to stand up, but I quickly hugged her tightly. 'I really enjoyed teasing you. Because you get annoyed so easily," I pinched her nose. 'You haven't changed at all. Maybe you've forgotten that I am stronger than you? I am the pureblood princess of the most powerful pureblood clan." She smirked at me. Then suddenly, a poison came out of her hand. 'Woah! Relax! I haven't forgotten that, okay? My princess gets angry so quickly." The poison she released disappeared like a bubble. She was indeed a powerful vampire. 'It's good that it's clear. Be careful, or I might not show up at our wedding," she teased. My eyes widened. I knew she was just joking, but her words suddenly made me feel anxious. 'Don't you dare! If I have to watch over you and personally come fetch you, I'll do it. Just to make sure you'll arrive safely," I said in a dangerous tone. I felt her body tense. She probably didn't expect that kind of reaction from me. 'Sorry. I'm just kidding. Don't get angry." Based on her voice, she sounded like she was about to cry. Damn! I kissed the top of her head. 'I'm sorry too. Just don't joke like that again, okay? You're making me nervous," I chuckled. She pressed herself closer to my chest as I gently stroked her disheveled hair. 'Promise! I won't say anything like that again. I love you, Carl." We both looked up at the sky. I know that we're both smiling right at that moment. 'I love you too, Jade." 'Kyle! Kyle! What did you see now?" I snapped back to the present, staring blankly at Kira. Everything is now clear. I could clearly see their faces, the ones I've been dreaming about for the past few days. It feels like those scenes have already happened. But why can't I remember that we already knew each other and those things actually occurred? She even said that she's a pureblood princess. But how? She's a human now! Because Jade and Carl were none other than Nicole and me. Damn it! Were we really them, or do they just resemble us? What is the truth? 'No," I muttered before everything went blank. *** Vincent's POV 'What happened to my brother?" Miley asked breathlessly, followed by Rei and Hiro. 'Ask him," I nodded in the direction where Kira was leaning casually, hands in his pockets. I knew he had some information based on his reaction and question. But I had been asking him since earlier, and until now, I hadn't received a decent answer from him. I didn't want to use my abilities on him either. As much as possible, we didn't want to use our abilities on each other. 'His head just hurt. There's nothing to worry about. He'll be fine," he said calmly. 'I'm just going to tell Nicole what happened. She's been calling since earlier." He was about to leave, but I stopped him. 'No. Don't let her know what happened. Kyle definitely wouldn't want Nicole to worry about him. Let's just wait for him to wake up." Their faces showed resistance, but they remained silent. 'Then I'll just go and check on her." I couldn't do anything as he left completely. I could only sigh. Why did it have to be like this? They're really best friends. We were all silent inside Kyle's room. I knew they didn't believe that it was just a simple headache. Especially since it escalated to the point where a pureblood prince lost consciousness. But I couldn't ignore Rei and Hiro whose avoiding eye contact with each other. This was probably the first time I had seen them argue like this. There was something off about the two of them. 'Jade..." We all looked at Kyle when he suddenly spoke while still keeping his eyes closed. 'Jade? Who's Jade?" Miley asked as she sat next to him. 'Jade... Please don't leave me," he said, his voice filled with desperation, almost on the verge of tears. Our eyes widened in shock. 'Who the hell is Jade, Brother? Don't tell me you're cheating on Nicole? I need your explanation! Wake up! Wake up!" We tried to pull Miley away, but suddenly she shook her brother's shoulder, who still hadn't woken up. I glanced at Kyle again. Seriously, who the hell is Jade? *** Nicole Jane's POV 'OMG! Really? Of course, I'll join! I never refuse anything that's free," Mikan exclaimed excitedly. 'Okay. Let's use your car today. I'm not in the mood to drive," I walked faster. 'Alright. But wait a second! Why are you in such a hurry?" She ran just to catch up with me. I ignored her. I'm annoyed! I have been calling and texting Kyle for a while but until now, I haven't received any response from him. His last text to me was this morning. He mentioned that he couldn't come because they had important matters to discuss and do with the royals. But he promised to pick me up after school. I haven't seen him the whole day, and now this. He was actually the one I wanted to go to the mall with. I waited for over an hour, but Kyle didn't show up! 'You've been staring at your phone for so long it'll probably melt," Mikan said, still focused on the road. We were on our way, and she was the one driving. Annoyed, I threw my phone on the dashboard. 'It's because of Kyle. He still hasn't contacted me. Do you think I'm just overreacting?" I asked her, feeling embarrassed. This is my first relationship. He's my first boyfriend. Everything is new to me. I don't actually know what to do or how to react in a situation like this. And things happened so quickly. Mikan just laughed, which annoyed me even more. 'No. For me, it's normal for you to react like that. But of course, it's still better if you hear his side first before jumping to conclusions. Because I believe that he has his reasons. Just trust him." Trust him. Of course, I trust him. But naturally, I'm also worried. I haven't seen any of the royals the whole day. I couldn't even contact them! When we arrived at the mall, I composed a text to Kyle, telling him that I just tagged along with Mikan for some shopping. He doesn't want me to go out alone without anyone from the royalties, but maybe he'll understand. Besides, I can take care of myself. We were entering the department store when I felt like someone was following us. But when I turned around to check, I didn't see anything suspicious. I just shrugged it off and let Mikan pull me wherever she wanted. 'Looks like we came at the right time! There are so many sales!" I just shook my head at Mikan, whose eyes seemed to sparkle as she looked at the dresses. As far as I know, her family also has a business, but she's just naturally stingy. Meanwhile, I looked around at the shoes before trying them on. I missed doing this. It's just more enjoyable now because I don't have bodyguards constantly following me. It can be irritating, you know. 'Nicole, let's buy these two! So, we can have the same ones. I'll just choose a different color. It's cute, isn't it?" She smiled and showed me the two t-shirts with the same design. They were two girls facing away from the camera, their heads leaning towards each other. The only difference was the color. There were also words printed on top of the design. Best Friends Forever I was about to refuse because I found it corny, but she turned away from me while carrying the two t-shirts. I just let her be. After going around and shopping, we decided to eat at a fast food chain we passed by. Shopping was really tiring and hunger-inducing. We didn't stay long because we might get caught by the curfew. Moreover, the path we were going to take was a dark and dense forest. Not to mention, it was a long journey. She had four paper bags with her while I only had two. She really made the most out of her shopping because she said it was free. I only bought a dress and shoes. Meanwhile, she had two bags and those t-shirts! 'What's wrong? Who are you looking at?" Mikan also stopped walking and looked behind me. 'Nothing. Let's go!" For the last time, I glanced around. It felt like someone was really following us, or maybe it was just my imagination. I tend to be a bit paranoid. 'Wow! It's tiring, but enjoyable nonetheless. Let's go out earlier next time, so we can visit more places and buy more things." Mikan let out a yawn before starting the car engine. 'Maybe I should drive this time instead. You seem sleepy, and we don't want to get into an accident." She smiled at me, and nodded in agreement. I stepped out and walked around to the driver's seat. She immediately handed me the keys. 'You're such a sweet friend, really. Thanks!" I was surprised when she suddenly hugged me as I sat down. This girl is really clingy no matter what. 'Alright, just take a nap there." Fortunately, there weren't many cars and there wasn't much traffic, so we quickly made it back. I even got scolded by the vampire guard because the curfew was approaching. I found out that almost all the staff here are vampires, except for the people wandering outside. There are also scattered individuals guarding the town. They call them protectors. When I parked the car, I lightly tapped Mikan's cheek. 'Hey, wake up. We're here already." She immediately opened her eyes and straightened up. We quickly got out of the car and walked towards our dormitory building. The surroundings were quiet, and there were no students outside anymore. 'I'm really sleepy. Thanks again for the treat! Until next time, good night!" I wanted to say that there won't be a next time, but she quickly ran into her room. It seemed like she wasn't tired at all. I just smiled and went into my room. But as soon as I closed the door, I dropped the paper bags I was holding and almost screamed when someone grabbed my waist and hugged me. But the moment I smelled his familiar scent, I already knew I was safe. Even in the darkness, I knew it was him. 'I missed you. I'm sorry for not contacting you right away. There was an emergency." I still couldn't believe he was here now, so I just nodded and hugged him back. I wanted to shout at him and tell him how annoyed I was with him. But if he was the one who humbled himself and approached me first to apologize, maybe it's better to just enjoy the moment. After all, I missed him too. 'I'm sorry for leaving without anyone from the royals with me. I just got annoyed." I pulled away from the hug and stared at him. I heard him snap his fingers, then suddenly, the whole room was filled with lights. He stared back at me, then gently caressed my cheeks. How I love to feel his touch. 'Who said that you were alone? Kira followed you." He smirked. My eyes widened. So that's why I felt like someone was following us earlier. Why didn't he just show himself? I will definitely scold that guy when we meet. 'Oh, by the way, how did was that emergency you took care? Is everything okay?" His smile suddenly disappeared, and in an instant, his face turned serious. 'The truth is, there are still things we need to do and clarify." I felt the sadness in every word he uttered. So, I held his cold hand and squeezed it, giving him comfort. 'Don't worry. I know you can handle whatever it is. I'm here for you." I don't know why, but while I used to dislike seeing him before, now I want to be by his side all the time. He kissed my forehead, which stunned me for a moment. 'Thank you. I already know that. And I'm also here to say..." He scratched his nape, looking nervous, which I couldn't understand. 'To say what?" I don't know why my heartbeat suddenly quickened. I have this feeling that I wouldn't like what he's about to say. He took a deep breath. I felt even more anxious. He looked directly into my eyes. I could clearly see the struggle on his face. 'I'm here to say goodbye." My mouth dropped open at his words. Is he angry because of what I did? Did I do something wrong? Is he already tired of me? Does he have someone else? Did he make me his girlfriend just to make me fall for him and then leave me in the end? Is he just playing with me? Various reasons are running through my mind now. Until my tears just started flowing on their own. It hurts. I don't think I can handle it. Why? Why now that I already love him? Why now that I've completely fallen for him? 'You're breaking up with me? Why? Wha—" I couldn't finish my sentence because he suddenly pressed his lips against mine. My eyes widened, and I couldn't move. I was so shocked! This is my first kiss, and I don't really know what to do! Then I realized that my lips were moving on their own, responding to his kisses. I encircled my arms around his neck and pressed my body closer to him, which made him groan. I want him to be close to me. I need him. I love him. But I suddenly stopped and held my head as it suddenly began to ache. 'Ahhh!" 'Nicole! What's happening to you?" I felt him hug me tightly. His voice was filled with worry. 'M-my head hurts!" I almost stumbled because the pain was so intense. Luckily, he caught me quickly. In a blink of an eye, there are scenes that I can't remember suddenly appearing in my mind. 'You look so beautiful, my daughter. You're indeed a princess. The gown suits you well," Mom said with tears in her eyes. 'Thanks, Mom. But please don't get too emotional. Your makeup might get ruined," I kissed her cheek and hugged her. 'I'm sorry. Mommy just can't help but cry, especially now that my only child is getting married." I just gave her my sweetest smile. 'Let's go now before we're late. I know that Carl can't wait to see you any longer." I nodded excitedly. I was truly looking forward to it. I was nervous but happy. This is it. Finally, the man I love the most will become my husband. When we arrived at the wedding venue, everyone was already preparing. Guards were scattered around because both Carl and I come from royal and powerful families. Daddy approached me immediately, and I clung to his arm. 'You're so beautiful, my princess," he whispered. 'Thanks, Dad." As I walked, slow music started playing. I couldn't help but shed tears when I saw Carl, almost in tears himself, staring and waiting for me at the front. We were both smiling at each other as I approached. I was just a few steps away from him. Until we stopped right in front of him. My Dad gave my hand to him. But before he could reach for it, chaos suddenly broke out around us. 'Jade!" 'Carl!" I couldn't get closer to him because someone suddenly pulled me away. While he fought off those blocking his path. In an instant, screams filled the place, and blood stained the surroundings. The pain in my head slowly faded, and in a daze, I turned to look at Kyle. He looked as shocked as I was. Why do Jade and Carl resemble us? Why did everything become more confusing as soon as their faces became clearer in my dreams? Or could it be that we are actually them? But... 'N-Nicole... What happened? Did you see something?" He held me by the shoulders, and I felt him trembling. I just stared at him until my eyes slowly closed. 'H-how? W-why?" I uttered before I completely lost consciousness.