Destiny's Hero Pt. 4

[Day: Monday (2 Days Until Christmas)]

[Time: Morning]

[Location: Home]

The morning sun bathed Destiny Central in a soft glow, casting long shadows across my yard. The chill in the air was crisp but invigorating, perfect for the festive preparations ahead. I stood in front of my house, a spool of lights in one hand and a staple gun in the other. Whitney was beside me, her cheeks rosy from the cold, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Alright, Shiji, where do we start?" Whitney asked, her voice bright with anticipation.

I smiled, surveying the house. "Let's start with the roof. We'll outline it with the lights and then move on to the trees and bushes."

Whitney nodded, grabbing a ladder and setting it up against the house. As I climbed up to secure the lights, Whitney steadied the ladder and passed me the decorations. We worked efficiently, our movements synchronized from years of friendship and teamwork.

Meanwhile, inside the house, a flurry of activity surrounded the Christmas tree. Lustie, Passion, Talenta, Luckie, and Charismari were busy wrapping gifts, their laughter and chatter filling the room with warmth and joy. The tree was already adorned with ornaments and twinkling lights, casting a festive glow over the pile of presents growing beneath it.

"Shiro really outdid himself this year," Lustie remarked, carefully folding the wrapping paper around a box. "Look at all these gifts."

Charismari nodded, tying a ribbon with expert precision. "He always goes the extra mile. That's why we love him."

Talenta chuckled, her fingers deftly wrapping another gift. "True. And we get to be his little elves, making sure everything is perfect."

Passion, humming a Christmas tune, placed a perfectly wrapped gift under the tree. "He's going to make so many people happy this Christmas."

Outside, Whitney and I continued our work. We wrapped the lights around the trees and bushes, adding colorful ornaments and festive decorations. As we worked, Whitney's thoughts drifted to her family.

"Shiji," she began, breaking the comfortable silence. "What are your plans for today?"

I paused, glancing down at her. "Well, after we finish here, I was thinking of checking in on everyone to make sure they're ready for Christmas. Why do you ask?"

Whitney smiled, a hint of shyness in her expression. "I was hoping you could come with me to pick out some gifts for my mom and dad. I could use your help."

I face lit up with a warm smile. "Of course, Whitney. I'd be happy to help."

Whitney beamed at me, her excitement bubbling to the surface. "Thank you~"

I chuckled softly, continuing to work on hanging up the decorations with Whitney. In a few short moments, we finished setting up all of our decorations and I made my way down the latter to admire our work by Whitney's side.

Once we got done admiring our work, we went inside so to check up on Lustie and her sisters. We noticed they had all of the inside decorations set up and the presents all wrapped up. Whitney went over to the Christmas Tree, admiring how well they all set it up.

Lustie floated toward me, hugging me from behind. "What's the word today, boss?~"

"Well first I'm gonna head out with Whitney so she can pick out a few gifts for Krystal and Mr. Dawn. From there, it's up there in the wind," I said, looking back at Lustie.

"Gotcha. If I had to make a suggestion, we should go visit Chelsey later!~" Lustie said, excited to see Chelsey and Adrianna again.

"I was thinking that too taken Chelsey is at work right now and so is Caroline. I was thinking I could pick her up from work and surprise her," I said, donning a soft smile on my face.

"Sounds good to me!~" Lustie giggled then let me go, noticing Whitney making her way back toward me.

"You ready?" I asked to Whitney, grabbing my keys off the kitchen counter.

"Mhm!~" Whitney smiled at me, getting her purse from the couch.

"Let ride then," I chuckled softly, making my way to the garage.

[Day: Monday]

[Time: Morning]

[Location: Destiny Haven Mall]

Whitney and I found ourselves at Destiny Haven Mall, a bustling hub of activity with people hurrying to finish their last-minute shopping. The mall was beautifully decorated, with garlands, lights, and a giant Christmas tree in the center.

Whitney led the way, her steps quick and purposeful. "I'm thinking of getting Mom something special, maybe a piece of jewelry. And for my dad, something practical but thoughtful."

I nodded, keeping pace with her. "Sounds like a good plan. Let's start with the jewelry stores."

We visited several shops, examining various pieces of jewelry. Whitney scanned each piece of jewelry, not knowing which one to get for Krystal. Whitney finally settled on a delicate silver necklace with a star-shaped pendant, which she knew would be perfect for Krystal. For Mr. Dawn, she chose a high-quality leather wallet, something he would use every day and appreciate for its practicality.

We decided to stroll around the mall hand in hand for a bit longer to do a bit of window shopping and to see if Whitney wanted anything while we were here. I ended up buying Whitney a few early Christmas presents, a heart shaped pendant that could open so she could store one of her favorite memoirs inside, a few earrings, and a new pair of shoes she really liked. After a bit of shopping, we decided to head back to my car.

As we walked through the mall, our arms laden with bags, Whitney looked up at me, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Shiji. I couldn't have done this without you."

I smiled, giving her a reassuring squeeze on the shoulder. "Anytime, Wynn. I'm happy to help anytime of the day."

We made it back to my car, putting the bags into the backseat and getting inside. I began to drive home so we could get the extra gifts wrapped up and placed under the tree.

[Day: Monday]

[Time: Noon]

[Location: Home]

We returned home, noticing Lustie and her sisters had added a few modifications to the decorations outside. We stepped outside to admire the work, admiring how my house looked like a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights and festive decorations adorning every corner.

Lustie greeted us at the door, her face lighting up. "You two are just in time! Everything's ready, and it looks amazing."

Whitney beamed, handing over her shopping bags. "Thanks to all of you. Now, let's get these gifts wrapped and under the tree."

Lustie and Whitney went inside while I stayed outside to get ready to head back out. I looked at my watch seeing Chelsey had texted me, sending me where she worked so I could pick her up.

I walked toward my front door and poked my head I she. "Hey girls, I'm off to pick Chelsey up from work," I called out to them.

"Okay!~ Tell her I said hi!" Whitney called back out toward me.

"I will," I replied, closing and locking the door then made my way toward my car.

Once I entered my car, I noticed Lustie warp beside me in the passenger seat. I looked at her then chuckled softly starting my car.

"Hey, you know I can't leave you to yourself now!~ I'm not missing any action like I did with you and Naomi! Whitney is safe with my sisters, especially Charismari, so you don't have to worry about another incident like the last time..~" Lustie said, a soft smile playing on her face.

"I know, and I'll have to reward them later for that..~" I replied, starting my car and driving off to where Chelsey worked.

[Day: Monday]

[Time: Afternoon]

[Location: Destiny Central]

I pulled up to the front of Chelsey's workplace, a local restaurant that sat in the heart of Destiny Central. The city was bustling with last-minute Christmas shoppers and office workers hurrying to wrap up before the holidays. I tapped my fingers on the steering wheel, glancing at the clock on the dashboard.

Just as the clock struck 3:00 PM, the front doors of the building swung open, and Chelsey walked out, her face lighting up as she spotted me waiting for her. She waved, picking up her pace as she made her way to the car.

I stepped out to greet her, a warm smile on my face. "Hey there, Mami..~ Ready to get out of here?"

Chelsey giggled softly, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Absolutely. It's been such a long day. I'm glad it's finally over."

We embraced briefly before Chelsey climbed into the passenger seat. I closed the door behind her and then got back behind the wheel. "So, we've got some time before we need to pick up Adrianna. How about we head to the park and relax for a bit?"

Chelsey smiled, leaning back in her seat. "That sounds perfect. I could use some fresh air."

I navigated through the city streets, making my way to Destiny Central Park. The park was a popular spot, especially during the holiday season, with its twinkling lights and festive decorations adorning the trees and pathways.

When we arrived, I parked the car, and we walked hand in hand into the park. The crisp winter air was refreshing, and the ground was dusted with a light layer of snow, giving everything a magical, white Christmas feel.

We found a quiet spot near a small playground and sat on a bench, watching children play and couples stroll by. I wrapped an arm around Chelsey, pulling her close to keep her warm.

"So, what are your plans for Christmas this year?" I asked, looking down at her.

Chelsey sighed contentedly. "Well, besides spending time with you and Adrianna, my mom is coming to visit. She's really excited to meet you."

I raised an eyebrow. "Your mom, huh? I'm looking forward to meeting her too. What's she like?"

Chelsey smiled, her eyes distant as she thought about her mother. "She's amazing. Strong, kind, and always supportive. She was born in Nicaragua and moved to America to marry my dad. She's been through a lot, but she's the strongest person I know."

I nodded, my respect for Chelsey deepening. "I'll be sure to leave a good first impression. I'm a bit nervous, though."

Chelsey laughed softly. "You? Nervous? You'll be fine. She's going to love you. Just be yourself."

I grinned. "Alright, I'll take your word for it. And what about Adrianna? Did she get her Christmas list prepared?"

Chelsey's face lit up. "You bet she did..~ She's been talking non-stop about this new doll she saw on TV. And she's been hinting at wanting to spend more time with you. She adores you, you know."

I felt a warmth spread through him. "Well, I have a feeling Santa might bring her that special doll. And as for spending time with her, I wouldn't have it any other way."

We sat in comfortable silence for a while, enjoying each other's company. I glanced at my watch and realized it was almost time to pick up Adrianna.

"We should probably head to the daycare," I said, standing up and offering Chelsey my hand.

Chelsey took it, smiling up at me. "Let's go get our girl."

Hand in hand, we walked back to the car, ready to pick up Adrianna and start our Christmas break together.

[Day: Monday]

[Time: Afternoon]

[Location: Little Destiny's Daycare]

Chelsey and I arrived at the daycare, and as soon as we entered, we were greeted by a chorus of children's laughter and chatter. Adrianna, in particular, stood out, her bright smile lighting up the room as she spotted me and her mom.

"Mommy! Mr. Shiro!" Adrianna called out, running towards us with open arms.

Chelsey crouched down to catch her daughter in a warm embrace. "Hey, sweetheart! How was your day?"

Adrianna's eyes sparkled with excitement. "It was great! We made Christmas ornaments, and I made one for you and Mr. Shiro!"

I smiled and ruffled her hair. "Can't wait to see it, princess. How about we go grab something to eat? I bet you're hungry."

Adrianna nodded eagerly. "Yes, please! Can we go to that place with the big burgers?"

Chelsey laughed. "Alright, let's go get some big burgers."

The three of us walked our way back to the car after Chelsey checked her out and Adrianna grabbed her belongings. I opened the door for Chelsey, allowing her to get in with Adrianna and once they were secured, I closed the door for them. I got in the car and drove off to go get dinner.

[Day: Monday]

[Time: Afternoon]

[Location: Destiny Central]

We made it to a local restaurant in Destiny Central that Chelsey recommended called Ground Breaking Burgers. She and Adrianna come here nearly all the time with Amber and Caroline whenever they wanted a good burger to eat and the reviews matched the praise Chelsey was giving the restaurant. The restaurant was also known for its family-friendly atmosphere and hearty meals.

As we settled inside into a cozy booth, Chelsey and I on one side with Adrianna on the other, the warmth and festive decorations of the place added to the holiday spirit.

Adrianna animatedly talked about her day while we waited for our food, and I listened intently, genuinely enjoying the child's enthusiasm.

When our food arrived, we dug in with gusto. Between bites of her burger, Adrianna suddenly looked at me with wide, sincere eyes.

"Papa, can you pass the ketchup?"

The word hung in the air, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. Chelsey and I exchanged a glance, both caught off guard by the unexpected term of endearment.

My heart swelled with emotion, and I handed Adrianna the ketchup with a smile. "Here you go, princess."

Chelsey's eyes were misty with tears of happiness, and she reached out to squeeze Shiro's hand. "Oh I've waited for this day..~ Now you have a reason to truly claim her as your daughter..~"

I squeezed back, feeling a deep sense of belonging and purpose. "I already did before this, but this only solidified it..~"

Chelsey and I shared a soft laugh before continuing to enjoy our meal with Adrianna. Our conversations were filled with more warmth than ever as we felt like a family now.

After our meal, I drove Chelsey and Adrianna back home. The evening was peaceful, the city's Christmas lights casting a magical glow on the streets. As I neared their neighborhood, my sharp instincts kicked in. I noticed a car that seemed to be following us, mimicking every turn I made.

A sense of unease settled over me. I glanced at Chelsey, who was softly humming a Christmas tune with Adrianna. I knew I couldn't risk leading the potential threat back to their home.

"Chelsey," I said, keeping his voice calm but firm. "I think we're being followed."

Chelsey's eyes widened in alarm, and she instinctively pulled Adrianna closer. "What? Are you sure?"

I nodded, my mind racing with thoughts. "I don't know... We're not going home just yet. I'll try to lose them. Hang on."

I took a series of quick, unexpected turns, weaving through the city's backstreets and alleys. The car behind me struggled to keep up, but it was persistent. My grip on the steering wheel tightened as I activated my Unleashed State, my senses heightened as I navigated through the urban maze.

After several minutes of tense driving, I finally managed to shake off our pursuers. I doubled back through a complex network of streets to ensure we weren't being tailed anymore.

When I was certain they were in the clear, I pulled into a parking lot and took a deep breath, turning to Chelsey and Adrianna. "We're safe for now, but I need to figure out who that was and why they're following us."

Chelsey nodded, her expression a mix of relief and worry. "Thank you, Shiro. I don't know what we'd do without you."

Adrianna, sensing the tension but not fully understanding, looked up at me with trust in her eyes. "Papa, are we going home now?"

I smiled reassuringly. "Yes, sweetheart. We're going home."

As I was about to drive off, a car screeched to a halt in front of mine, effectively blocking my escape route. The tension in the car spiked, and I knew I had no choice but to confront whoever was pursuing us.

"Stay in the car, both of you," I instructed Chelsey and Adrianna firmly. "Lock the doors and don't open them until I say it's safe."

Chelsey, though visibly shaken, nodded and quickly locked the doors. She pulled Adrianna close, her protective instincts kicking in. "Be careful, Shiro," she whispered, her voice trembling.

Adrianna clung to Chelsey, sensing her mother's fear but not fully understanding the gravity of the situation. "What's happening, Mommy?"

Chelsey forced a reassuring smile. "It's going to be okay, sweetheart. Papa's just going to talk to those men."

I stepped out of the car and immediately spotted the three men exiting the vehicle blocking my path. My eyes narrowed as I recognized them: Michael, and his two cronies, Ryan and Cedric.

Michael's face twisted into a sneer as he approached me. "Well, well, look who it is. The hero of the hour. Think you can just steal my family from me, huh?"

I stood my ground, my body tense and ready for a fight. "They're not your family, Michael. You lost that right a long time ago when you walked down on them like the pathetic deadbeat you are. And if you think you're going to lay a hand on Chelsey or Adrianna..."

I chuckled softly and Lustie became visible to then as she hovered behind me. "I dare you to even try...I will make sure there is nothing left of you..."

Ryan and Cedric flanked Michael, their postures menacing. Ryan cracked his knuckles, and Cedric smirked, clearly anticipating a confrontation.

Inside the car, Chelsey's heart raced. She could see Michael's cold, calculating expression, and memories of how he abandoned her surged back. She forced herself to remain calm for Adrianna's sake, whispering soothing words to keep her daughter calm.

Michael stepped closer to me, his eyes filled with malice. "You think you're some kind of hero, don't you? But you're nothing. Just a wannabe savior in over your head."

My eyes flashed with determination. "You're wrong. I'm exactly what they need. And I'm not going to let scum like you hurt them."

Without warning, Michael lunged at Shiro, throwing a wild punch. I sidestepped effortlessly, my eyes tracking his movements closely. Ryan and Cedric joined the fray, but I was ready.

I activated my Unleashed State, my movements becoming a blur to them as I engaged the three men. Michael swung again, but I blocked the punch and countered with a powerful strike to Michael's midsection, sending him staggering backward. I took off my jacket, tossing it aside then let out my Tribal Howl, smoke from the cold air escaping my mouth. The deep, resonant sound that echoed around the area.

The fight erupted in a flurry of movement. I was a blur, dodging Michael's wild swings and the more calculated attacks from Ryan and Cedric. I moved with a fluid grace, my reactions almost preternatural. Each attack aimed at me met only air as I danced around his opponents.

Ryan threw a punch, but I sidestepped effortlessly, delivering a swift, precise strike to Ryan's ribs, sending him staggering back. Cedric tried to catch me off-guard with a low kick, but I leaped over it, landing a powerful blow to Cedric's shoulder that knocked him to the ground.

Cedric tried to get up, only to be met with a Destiny Flash to his jaw, iridescent lightning flashing upon impact. I let out a roar as I slammed his dead down onto the concrete.

[Warning: Bloodlust has increased to 50%]

Strands of my hair slowly began to shadow my face, my golden eyes shining brightly through the shadows of my face. I kicked Cedric aside to get him out of the way.

Ryan was now intimidated by my presence, seeing a dark red etheral energy surrounding my body. He immediately pulled out his gun to shoot me, but I blitzed him, striking him with a Destiny Flash, sending him crashing backwards. Ryan landed on the ground, knocked out cold.

[Warning: Bloodlust has increased to 80%]

Michael, seeing his allies defeated, stumbled back and his eyes widened with disbelief. He watched as I approached him with a murderous and primal intent.

"You're a disgusting, pathetic excuse of a human being. You leave Chelsey alone when she was pregnant and four years later you want to show back up? You stalk them... putting them in jeopardy..?" I said, my tone cold and callous.

Michael stumbled backwards, landing on the hood of his car then grunted as I gripped his neck with both hands. He grunted loudly, fear settling into his eyes.

I glared at Michael then felt Lustie's hand upon my shoulder. I looked back at her and noticed her shaking her head for me to not kill Michael in front of Chelsey and Adrianna. I looked back at my car, seeing Chelsey had Adrianna's eyes covered to protect her from the sight. I looked back at Michael and grit my teeth, letting him go.

I yelled and swung at Michael, landing a powerful right hook to his jaw, causing him to fall on the ground. I crouched down, gripping his shirt, raising him up. "If you come near them again, I won't be so merciful next time. You will never be good enough for them. You will never have their approval. You will never be anything to them but a distant memory. Now get out of here before I change my mind and kill all three of you.." I let Michael go then stood up.

Michael glared at me, but the fire in his eyes had dimmed. He got up and stumbled back to his car, dragging Ryan and Cedric with him. Within moments, the car peeled away, leaving me standing alone in the parking lot.

I took a deep breath, calming my racing heart before walking back to the car. I tapped on the window, and Chelsey quickly unlocked the doors.

Chelsey looked at me with tears in her eyes, relief flooding her features. "Thank you, Shiro. I don't know what we'd do without you."

I climbed back into the driver's seat, reaching over to squeeze Chelsey's hand. "It's okay now. Let's get you both home."

Adrianna, still clinging to her mother, looked up at me with wide eyes. "Papa, are we safe?"

I smiled reassuringly. "Yes, princess. We're safe. I promise."

[Bond with Chelsey skyrocketed.]

[Talent EXP +10,000]

As I drove them home, my mind raced with plans to ensure their safety. Michael's threat was far from over, and I knew I needed to take more permanent measures to protect my family. But for now, I was just grateful that I was able to keep them safe and together.