Hades & Persephone - Summer Solstice

It was during the toast that Persephone finally caught his eye. He smirked a little and rose his glass from afar. Her eyes were glazed over, mouth open slightly ajar. It took her a moment to raise her glass in return.

He took a sip and then set his glass down on a server's tray without watching. He kept his eyes on hers as he prowled closer. With each step he fidgeted. Step. He fixed his cuffs. Step. He pulled on the lapels of his dress shirt. Step. He mussed his hair slightly.

He pushed past other gods, demigods, and creatures a like. He knew his guards were on his tail. Far enough behind, but close enough to intervene if anything went wrong. Demeter was in attendance and Hades knew she hated him. She wouldn't be too happy with what he was about to do.

"Good evening, Lady of the Spring."

Her face twisted, in dislike.

"It's Persephone."

"Yes, and I am Hades" he gave a slight bow.

She dipped her head, but just barely. Her eyes scanned the crowd behind him.

"I do not think I've seen you in attendance before?" Hades asked.

She shook her head. "I'm...new."

He smiled. That was an understatement. He had never met another being who's matched her beauty--and that's counting Aphrodite.

"Well Persephone, have you been to a Summer Solstice party?"

"We have parties."

He gave a small laugh. "I believe it." He reached a hand slowly towards her face, waiting for her to slap his hand away, but she just watched him carefully. He took a step closer and continued to brush a stray hair behind her ear. It was as if time had stood still. Persephone held her breath.

He heard Zeus' booming voice begin the countdown. Hades glanced at the clock quickly before returning his gaze upon Persephone.

"It's almost midnight." Hades whispered.

She nodded, eyes wide. He slowly wrapped her into his arms. "Shall we kick off summer the mortal's way?" He lowered his gaze to her lips.

"Three!"

Persephone slowly wrapped her hands around his shoulders, eyes fluttering closed.

"Two!"

Hades took that as his que. He pulled her closer, slowly bending down to reach her

lips.

"One!"

Time stopped. Noise makers blew in the distance. And Hades could just barely make out the sound of fireworks in the distance. But he was entranced in this moment. He knew she was beautiful. He knew he had to know her. He hadn't known he would feel this bewitched by her. He had magic in his veins, but nothing compared to how her lips felt upon his own. Her hands had curled up into his hair, brushing past his horns.

Someone bumped into them causing them to pull apart. Persephone cleared her throat and pulled away.

"I better go...thanks for...the kiss." Persephone gave a small smile, her face flushed with pink. Hades' mouth gaped, stunned. But before he could say anything she disappeared into the crowd.

**I don't own the cover art image, but couldn't find the artist**