Page 50 of Tempted By Hades

Thanks?

Lol. So, wanna talk about it?

I’m not ready, but I promise I’ll call you when I am.

K. Just reach out if you need anything.

I will. Thanks!

And that’s why she treasured Geri so much—she was a great friend who stuck by her through anything but also knew when she needed space. It was things like that, plus the lively exchanges, the shared laughter, and the comforting routine of her life in the Upperworld seemed a world away in the quiet expanse of the Underworld.

At this moment, she yearned for the energy of the plant shop, the aromatic embrace of blooming flowers, and the banter that accompanied each customer’s visit. Geri’s playful teasing and Adonis’s charming camaraderie were sorely missed, leaving a void in Persephone’s heart that the grandeur of the Underworld couldn’t entirely fill. She felt a pang of nostalgia for the simplicity and joy that defined her life in the Upperworld. She found herself yearning for connection.

A brilliant idea dawned on her—why not throw a party for the souls dwelling in the Underworld? It was a chance to bring joy to the residents of the afterlife, to create a celebration that would echo through the shadowed realms.

She envisioned a grand gathering, a soiree that would transcend the usual gloom of the Underworld. The courtyard and the bare garden outside would be transformed into a street fair as she conjured decorations, ethereal lights, and a harmonious blend of melodies. There would be musicians, their melodies echoing through the garden. And ghostly lights flickering like fireflies, casting an otherworldly glow, tables adorned with ambrosial delights materialized, promising a feast for souls weary from their eternal journey.

Her imagination flourished with the vision of a grand street party. The courtyard and the field outside the palace would be transformed into a lively space, bustling with activity and adorned with stalls that echoed the diverse eras from which the souls hailed.

The goddess, fueled by her determination to create a sense of community and happiness, continued to weave this dream in her mind. Now, she only had to ask Hades for permission.

Later that evening as they dined together again, she told Hades of her plan—though this was a much more subdued affair inside his office as he said he only had an hour break before his evening meeting.

“I think that’s an excellent idea,” he said, then took a bite of his sandwich.

“Really?” Frankly, she didn’t think he’d agree so quickly.

“Yes. I can’t remember the last celebration we had.” He scratched at his chin. “I mean, I don’t think we ever even had one.”

“No? Not even when you became ruler of this place?”

His dark brows drew together. “No, I had to get to work on day one. War brings a lot of death, you see.”

“Oh.” The sobering thought had dampened her excitement. “Right.”

“But, perhaps it’s high time we do. So, please, proceed with your plan.” Polishing off his sandwich, he stood up. “The staff will be at your disposal. Whatever you need, you shall have.”

“Thank you. I want all the souls to be there, of course, and the inhabitants of the Underworld. But is there anyone else we should invite?”

“Anyone else? Who?”

“Like your friends? Other gods?”

“Other gods?”

“Yeah, surely you have friends?”

He huffed indignantly. “Of course, I do!”

“Who?”

“Um, there’s Apollo.” Though his face remained impassive, there was a sour note to his voice.

“And who else?”

“And…Hestia.” He cleared his throat. “As you know, most gods are too busy to be attending parties and such, but I shall send out the invitations, and we will just have to wait and see who comes.” He finished off the last of his sandwich in two bites, swallowed, and then stood up. “Now, I must leave.” Without another word, he disappeared.

“Wait—oh.”

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