Planning the coronation was tedious.
Pidge contemplated stacking food items on top of each other just to rid herself of boredom. All that was being discussed was little details that she couldn't care less about. Like color coordination.
"Katherine?" Pidge blinked, looking over at Lotor, whose eyebrows were raised.
She felt like she was missing something important. "Yes?" She blushed when the planner's smile twitched.
"Do you have any preference for your formal attire?"
"Not really?"
Lotor considered her for a moment and leaned forward. "What do you think is going to happen at the coronation?"
Pidge cocked her head, something her brother used to always tease her about. "You're going to become king."
"And then?"
"Then..," Pidge squinted. "we're going to help Balmera."
"Yes, but no. Because you're my wife," He put particular emphasis on this, "you are also going to be crowned. This is about you too."
Pidge bit her lip, feeling stupid. "I didn't think about that."
Lotor placed his hand over hers, and she noticed that it was warm. "That's okay. I should've explained."
"It's alright. I'll learn eventually."
"Yes, but I should have warned you in the first place. Anyways, are you ready to go on? I'm afraid that we've been testing Nanette's patience."
Nanette promptly assured them that they weren't and they continued, Pidge now involved more in the conversation. She didn't hesitate to apologize for taking up the planner's time, and Nanette blushed, saying once again that it was fine. Lotor seemed pleased.
Running through all of the details once final time, they finally ended the session, leaving butterflies in Pidge's stomach. Nanette had left a few minutes ago, but Pidge had no idea what to do in general, so she stayed put. She wasn't sure why Lotor was staying either- he probably had plenty of things to do.
His hand still lingered on the table where they had touched, though Pidge's were tucked away in her lap.
"Are you hungry?" He asked suddenly, multicolored eyes meeting hers.
Pidge blinked. "Yeah. Do you want to go to lunch?"
Lotor grinned. "I was just about to ask you that."
She let her smug smile overtake her features. "Looks like I beat you."
"I assure you it will not happen again."
Oh no. The butterflies were back, and she realized what she'd been doing- she was /flirting/. Honest to god.
"And I'm telling you that you can do nothing to stop me," It was like someone else was doing the talking for her, but she found that she liked the banter. It made her feel more.. like her old self.
"Well then, since you asked, do you know where you want to go?" He had her there. At her pause, Lotor laughed, his chest expanding fully. "That's what I thought. We'll be on Galra soon, anyway, so I'll show you my favorite restaurant."
Pidge bit her lip. "Sounds like a plan."
Lotor startled her again with an abrupt exclamation. "Oh! When we get done, we're going shopping."
"For what?"
"Your clothes. You need more casual wear, and we could start getting our coronation outfits ready."
"That sounds fine, but I don't really need any more clothes."
"Are you kidding?" Lotor sputtered. She didn't think she's ever heard him do that before, being Mr. Calm and Collected and all. "You barely have enough clothes to last three days, not including your formal dresses. You won't even have to wear those that often."
Sighing, Pidge acknowledged his point. "You got me there. But we're not going to spend a lot okay? Thrift stores only."
"As you say," Something buzzed then, and Lotor checked his device. "We're here. Time for lunch."
Pidge looked down at herself. She'd decided to wear her only pair of jeans and a light blue t-shirt with Lance's jacket overtop. Tattered Vans that she'd had for god knows how long adorned her feet. "I should probably change."
Lotor shook his head. "You're completely perfect."
Pidge scrutinized him, but couldn't detect any sarcasm. Lotor himself always looked like the god of Abercrombie models.
"If you're sure, then lead the way."
In all the times she'd invaded the Galran ships, she'd never been to the actual planet personally before. She wasn't sure what she was expecting- high tech, well, everything? Desolate, underdeveloped buildings?
She definitely wasn't expecting it to be so similar to Earth that it pulled a few of her heartstrings.
Of course, it wasn't an exact replica. The people were purple, and the grass and plants were a mix of blue and green, but the layout was familiar. Skyscrapers raked against the bright blue sky, and Pidge smiled as children ran around the playground. They seemed to have landed in the city instead of nearby.
Lotor led her down the slightly cracked sidewalk, with no need of an escort. These were his people, he explained, and they supported him secretly even when his father ruled. They would never betray him.
Pidge wasn't so sure. She remembered just how many Galrans had escaped their jails that had been on Zarkon's side, but she distracted herself with the new scenery. This was a new time.
As they walked, Lotor told her about their culture and past. Apparently, they only became a violent race when Zarkon took control. Lotor was hoping to go back to the way things once were.
Without her noticing, they linked hands. She told herself it was so they didn't get separated. "I'm sure you'll be very successful."
Lotor squeezed her hand, and her lungs jumped. "Yes, we will," Then, "Ah, we're here," Pidge wasn't expecting to be pulled into a small corner sandwich shop.
"Lotor, my friend!" A voice immediately greeted them, and Lotor didn't let go of her hand as he embraced them with a one-armed hug. When they parted, Pidge saw a squat Galran man take a step back and push his glasses up his squashed nose. He peered over his spectacles at her. "Is this the girl I've seen with you all over the news?"
Lotor drew Pidge nearer to him, his smile wide. "Yes, this is my wife Katherine."
"Katherine," The man repeated. "What is she doing with you?"
"Barney, I told you that she's my wife," He laughed, and Pidge couldn't help but smile. She decided that she liked Barney already.
Barney stepped around Lotor and took her unoccupied hand in his, shaking it. "Katherine, I'm Barney. If you ever want to get out of that stuffy castle, you just come see me ya hear?"
Pidge giggled. "Will do. And you can call me Katie."
He squeezed her hand lightly before letting go. "I'm honored," Turning back to Lotor, he asked, "What can I get you both today? Anything you want on the house, friend, in celebration of your beautiful wife."
Pidge flushed, and Lotor looked down at her. "Just the usual for both of us please."
Barney made a point to look at her. "Is that okay with you Katie? Can't have Lotor making all the decisions."
Pidge laughed but nodded her head, and they went to sit down as Barney disappeared into the back.
"Barney is an old friend of mine," Lotor said as he pushed in her chair. "A bit like an uncle, really. He's owned this shop since I was small."
"I like him already," Pidge admitted, smiling.
Lotor let out a rather large breath, like the information had set him at ease. "I'm glad. I'm sure that when you're here, it'll always be on the house," He leaned forward with a boyish look on his face. "In all the years I've visited, I've only had to pay him once."
"Once?"
"Once," He nodded, "It was the time my father demanded to know where I'd been going all the time and followed me. I was eight. It's like he knew before everyone else did." This reminded Pidge of how house animals and babies could tell someone's character before they even did anything. She relayed this to Lotor, whose eyes crinkled around the corners. "He does look a bit like a baby, doesn't he?"
Pidge was about to agree when Barney returned, a basket in both hands. He winked good-naturedly at Pidge when he set hers down on the table.
"Be careful with all that charm," Lotor warned, "you may be charged with treason for stealing my wife away," The threat was ruined with Lotor's smile, one that seemed to sneak onto his face without him thinking about it.
Barney's laugh bellowed. "I couldn't think of a better way to go, Lotor. You both enjoy now."
Looking down at her food, Pidge noticed that it looked like any sandwich you could get from Subway. She picked it up and took a rather large bite, hoping Lotor wouldn't look at her before she could rub the juices off of her chin. Unfortunately, she's never been lucky. Lotor handed her a napkin, but then quickly used one for himself, as he spontaneously had the same problem.
"These sandwiches always hold a lot of fluids," She had a sneaking suspicion that he'd done that on purpose, but she said nothing.
"What's in this?" She asked once she'd swallowed her food.
"There's different types of fruits and a meat like a kind of bird from your planet."
When he said that, Pidge could finally distinguish the different flavors. There was something citrusy- not tasting, but she could feel the buzz on her tongue, and then the sweet taste of raspberries. She chewed on chunks of spiced meat. It wasn't long before she was finished.
"Your Galran food is so good," She said, watching him bite into his own sandwich. "I need to show you some food from Italy though. I think you'll like it."
Lotor smiled warmly. "I'm sure I'd love it," He leaned back in his chair. "I'm full if you want the rest?"
"You've barely eaten half of it," She pointed out, though the offer was tempting.
He shrugged. "I at a lot at breakfast."
A warm feeling took over her chest. "We didn't even eat breakfast."
"Then I'll eat more for dinner," He pushed the basket toward her. "Eat it. Please."
Biting her lip, Pidge took the basket. "Thank you."
"It's my pleasure," He smiled widely.
After she'd finished and was utterly full, they bid Barney goodbye and started meandering around the city. At first, they didn't really say much. Pidge was busy staring at the buildings in wonder and biting her lip at all the tech. It wasn't until she was Lotor was looking at her that she realized they'd been neglecting him.
"Sorry," Her cheeks were burning.
"It's perfectly alright," Lotor smiled encouragingly. "Your face is very expressive. It's entertaining."
"Yeah, whatever," She was secretly pleased.
They stopped at a stand, and Lotor handed her what looked like an ice cream cone, except it was a bright crimson red. Licking it, she decided that it tasted like the syrup part of the canned cherries that her mother used for pies. Lotor's own was pink.
"What does it taste like?" She asked.
"Like melon."
Pidge wrinkled her nose. "Honeydew melon or watermelon?"
Lotor shook his head. "I'm not going to pretend like I know the flavors of your Earth fruits."
"Well, honeydew melon is disgusting. Watermelon is good."
Lotor's mouth pulled up in an amused smile. "I feel like those aren't flavors."
Pidge shrugged. "Just my opinion."
They wandered around more as they finished their ice cream. On a few occasions, someone would congratulate them and meld back into the crowd. They would look at Pidge brightly as they said this, and she would always smile and thank them. When they finally finished their sweet treats, Lotor led her to the shop where they were getting their coronation outfits fitted.
It reminded Pidge of this dress shop back in Italy that she used to look at. As a small child, Pidge used to sit in front of the windows and stare at the enchanting fabrics on the motionless mannequins. It had been a few days of this before the shopkeeper came out. The old woman Margaret, had a kind face and let Pidge touch her most beautiful dresses. She later showed her how to make them- but she hasn't been able to do that since the war started.
"Welcome! You both are right on time!" The Galran woman pulled Pidge out of her thoughts, and for the next few hours, Pidge's mind was full of measuring tape and a rainbow of color. When they left, Lotor's stomach said it was time for dinner (Pidge was still full from lunch), so they stopped at a small outdoor vendor.
Insisting that she didn't want anything, Lotor finally relented and ordered food for himself, but not before getting her a drink. They sat at a picnic table. Pidge looked at the sun in the sky, but she didn't know how time worked on this planet.
"How long does your day last on Galra?"
"We have thirty vargas in a day, but the sun stays for eighteen vargas," Glancing at the sky, Lotor said, "It's probably about the sixteenth hour right now. The period starts over on next daybreak."
"That's cool. I'll have to study up more on that."
"Or you could just ask me, y'know, the walking Galra Encyclopedia," Lotor deadpanned, causing Pidge to giggle.
"You're right," The corners of Lotor's eyes crinkled in amusement, and Pidge couldn't help but think that this made him almost unbearably attractive. Her heart jumped at the realization. "Well then, my walking encyclopedia, how do you know when daybreak is?"
"A red flash will bring the sun back at the beginning of the next day. It lasts for about three minutes, and our clocks reset right after it disappears."
"What hours are usually sleeping hours?"
"It's typically between the twenty-first through the second hour of the next day. Light begins at hour one, so the first two daylight hours are usually used for waking up fully and getting ready for the day."
"Earth has twenty-four hour days, and twelve of them are dark."
"We only have eleven dark hours. The twentieth hour is used to get ready for sleep. Us Galran's believe in getting a lot of rest for our twenty hour days."
Pidge nodded. "That's understandable. On Earth, a healthy amount of sleep is eight hours a day."
"And how many do you get, Katherine?" Lotor raised an eyebrow.
She had the decency to blush. "I get eight hours... every three or four days."
Lotor spit out a bit of his drink, his eyes widening. "Are you serious? I'm surprised you're not deteriorating. You need a lot more sleep than that."
"I've gotten a lot of sleep this week, thank you," Pidge said, crossing her arms over her chest.
"Good then. Since our days are so long, I hope it stays that way. You'll probably have to take naps to keep up though."
Pidge shook her head. "It'll only take me a couple of days to get used to how long the days are. I already stay up like this anyways."
Lotor only shrugged. "Whatever you think. But we should get your casual clothing now."
"Sounds good."
Lotor threw his plastic into the nearest trashcan. "Galran's have a different taste when it comes to fashion, but I'm sure that you can find something you like."
"I'm not picky," Pidge said, shrugging.
Lotor pointed at an upcoming store. "Let's go in here then."
Once inside, Pidge's jaw dropped. "I thought I said thrift store?"
"About that," Lotor grinned, "we can't. What would people think if we shopped at one of those?" Pidge looked at him in disbelief. "Alright, I'm just joking. But I wanted to treat my wife, is that a crime?"
A blush rose to her cheeks, "I guess not. But nothing too expensive, okay?"
"That's fine. Now look around and find some stuff you like. I'll push the cart."
It all felt very domestic- Lotor following her around the store as she looked at different things. Pidge found that she actually liked the Galran style. She liked the bright colors and the loose, flowing fabric. It reminded her of her mother's sundress, the one she only wore in the summers. It's been years since Pidge got to browse for clothes, or even choose something that actually fit. She picked up some pants, shorts, and, to her astonishment, a few casual dresses that she liked. She remembered that she liked dresses when she was younger. She bit her lip when she noticed she was missing a key item after putting underwear into the cart.
"Where are the bras?" She asked, feeling bashful. She knew that it wasn't anything to be embarrassed about- it was just clothes, but she couldn't help but harp on the fact that was talking to freaking Lotor.
"Oh, Galran's don't typically wear those. The women thought it unequal, so now it's completely optional. Stores usually keep some in the back now," Lotor didn't mention her obvious embarrassment, but offered, "We can order them to be brought to the castle if you'd like."
Pidge quickly shook her head. "It's fine, we can just get them here."
Nodding, Lotor spoke to a passing store employee, and the woman glanced at Pidge for a moment before disappearing.
"I'm sorry this is embarrassing for you?"
"I'm not that embarrassed really- I'm just used to shopping for this stuff with my mom," This reminded her of some other things that she needed, and she made a mental note to ask Lotor if Galrans had periods.
A moment later, the woman returned. "I got the size I thought would fit you best," She then pointed to the fitting room. Pidge knew enough about the Galran language and number system to know the cheaper brands.
"Are you picking those because they're more comfortable, or because they're cheaper?" Lotor could see right through her. She ended up taking the more comfortable ones, even though they were slightly more expensive.
They were also really pretty, though Pidge would never say that out loud.
Lotor stood near the fitting room as she tried on the bras, but she tried not to think about it. Surprisingly, they all fit her perfectly, but even after she changed back she took a moment to compose herself. The trip was reminding her too much of when she would tail her parents on shopping trips. Her dad would push the cart and smile at her mom whenever they made eye contact. At the checkout, he always slipped one of her favorite candy bars onto the conveyor belt.
Pidge hadn't called her mother since the war started. Guilt settled through her as she thought about it- She'd left for the Garrison with the promise of bringing her father and brother back, and now only Matt would return.
What time was it on Earth anyway?
Lotor could immediately see something was up when Pidge returned. "What's wrong? Do they not fit? I could-"
"They fit just fine," Pidge smiled gently, "I was just thinking about my mom."
"Oh, I see. Do you miss her?" Lotor asked, politely taking her bras and putting them in the cart. He then started walking to the shoe section.
Pidge nodded. "I haven't talked to her since I left for the Garrison. It's been about five years."
Lotor was quiet for a moment, then said, "You have the freedom to do whatever you wish, Katherine."
Her eyes widened. "You mean I could go visit?"
"Well of course," Lotor's brows knitted together. "Why would I keep you from your family? I've already had your father sent back to Earth."
"Are you serious? Why didn't you tell me before?"
"It was while our wedding preparations were going on, and I kind of just... forgot to mention it?"
Pidge wasn't even mad- She laughed, and before she knew it, she was hugging Lotor, her face pressed into his shirt. "Thank you so much!" Pulling back, she blushed, "Would you like to come with me?"
She thought she saw him visibly whiten, but he was calm when he spoke, "Do you want me to?"
"I wouldn't have asked if I didn't want you to," She giggled.
"Then of course," Lotor smiled, but it was warm now, and his complexion was back. "We can go after the coronation if you'd like?"
"Yes!" She almost shouted, but quieted when she remembered where they were.
In the shoe department, Lotor insisted she had casual flats, boots, sneakers, and some gardening sandals ("So it's easier to clean the dirt off"). When they paid for everything, the cashier gave them a 'congratulatory discount', but the sum still made Pidge uncomfortable.
Lotor insisted on carrying most of the bags on the way back to the castle, Pidge only managing to snag three. She kept telling him that she was more than able to carry more, but he wouldn't budge so she let it go. When they got back, Lotor helped her unpack her new clothes before disappearing to attend to a few things.
At the bottom of the last bag, Pidge found a candy bar next to a note:
/Because you were sad today/
Her heart beat so fiercely that it melted in her chest. Smiling, she ate the chocolate as she dressed to go to bed, in her new night clothes of course. She was determined to show Lotor that she had no problems adjusting to the Galran way of life. Of course, she'd have to make herself go to sleep first.
Picking up a book, she got into bed and began reading. From what the clock said, it was nearing the twentieth hour, but she had enough time to finish one chapter, right?
Wrong. By the time Lotor got back, she was halfway through the book and the time said it was the twenty-fifth hour. She didn't even notice him come in until he spoke.
"You're still up?" He looked at her strangely, taking a drink out of a water bottle.
Pidge thumbed her place on the page, "I couldn't stop reading, but you can't really say anything. You're up too."
He laughed, "You've got me there. What are you reading?" He went into the closet then, and she could hear rummaging.
"It's called 'The Sky Is Everywhere'," She called out, "It's about a girl coping with her sister's death. She kisses her sister's boyfriend, which is a little fucked up, but I can see where it's coming from."
Lotor came out, now dressed in his pajamas. "That's a different approach."
Pidge laughed. "You're telling me. It's a really good book though."
"I don't doubt it if it's kept you up this long. Are you feeling tired at all?" Pidge was about to say no, she wasn't, but she could see the bags under his eyes.
"Actually, yeah. I should probably sleep if I want to stay up for the next twenty hours."
"Sounds good to me," Lotor once again switched the light off, but immediately turned it back on since Pidge didn't look at her page number. Checking and giving him the good-to-go, they both settled in for what was left of the night.
xx
Lotor woke her specifically before the thirtieth hour so she could see the Flash. It was beautiful- not just red, but crimson and maroon and peach. Pidge never took her eyes off of it, but then it was gone. It hardly seemed like three minutes.
Lotor was looking at her expectantly, a wide smile on his face. "What did you think?"
"It was amazing," Pidge said honestly, her eyes wide in wonder. "Easily one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen."
"I'm glad you like it."
Pidge shook her head. "I don't just like it- I wasn't to watch every one of them for the rest of my life."
"Do you really mean that?" Lotor asked, and Pidge was surprised by the timid ring of his voice.
"Well yeah."
"Do you mind if I keep you company?"
She made sure to keep eye contact, so he would /know/ she wasn't lying. "Nothing would make me happier."
xx
There was a lot of preparation that went into a coronation.
They had the event itself, and then the after 'party' (Banquet, Lotor said, but Pidge thought that name sounded boring). There were questions about food, flowers, clothing, who was attending and where they would sit. There was the practice with walking, posing, protocol for everything, keeping up with the traditions, bowing, smiling. Pidge's feet weren't the only things hurting- It was like her wedding all over again, but much, /much/ bigger.
Lotor, of course, was fine, not a hair out of place. Pidge envied him as she paraded around in the dress she was supposed to wear- It fit tight around her torso and fell in loose ripples from her waist down. It was so long that she kept tripping over it in her heels (She wasn't allowed to wear flats this time, because 'Queens never wear flats').
She was very close to regretting her decision. She felt like she was in Princess Diaries, except hyped up on acid. With aliens.
"You're doing great Katherine!" Lotor called out, flashing her a thumbs up. He'd been doing that ever since she showed it to him, but she didn't find it quite that endearing this time.
"Yeah, have fun drinking your tea while I die," To make a point (though not on purpose) she tripped again.
"Amazing!" Pidge grumbled as she got to her feet. She was determined to not look like a fool at their coronation, especially because it would reflect back on Lotor. She would walk in heels for the rest of the time before the coronation- which was in three days.
She'd gotten the smile down, the sway, the look, the poise- she just couldn't walk without tripping yet. She was going to blow her friends away with her grace.
There was also the tradition of getting something for your spouse during the event. She hadn't figured out what to give Lotor yet. She knew he liked books, the color orange, lots of different kinds of foods. He liked animals and flowers, but what kind of gift is she supposed to give a newly crowned king?
Plagued by curiosity, she'd asked Lotor what he got her. he'd just given her a mischievous smile and said it was a surprise. When they got married, Lotor had given her two cards- one for her identification and the other for money. She never planned to use it- she already had everything she needed. She vowed only to use it to get Lotor a gift.
She stumbled again. /Fuck it, she thought, /if I have to garden in these shoes, I will/. But first, she had to get out of her godforsaken dress.
"I'm done for now," She said to Nanette, who was overseeing her training.
"Right, ma'am. You've done really well. Let's get you out of that dress." When the dress was off and replaced by Lance's familiar jacket, Pidge breathed a sigh of relief. Then, she put the heels back on and went to the garden.
The garden was nothing like she'd envisioned. Lotor's description made her think that the garden was a desolate wasteland, but it was just as beautiful as the Flash had been. Walking around, she stared in wonder at the beautiful Galra native flowers. She thought briefly of taking some for her mother but discarded it immediately. They wouldn't last the trip, and even if they did, Pidge didn't think she could bear picking any one of them.
Lotor snapped her out of her reverie, like he always did, "You've been here for hours."
She looked over at him, thinking. "Have I really? It feels like it's only been a half hour at most."
He revealed a bucket full of tools. "Are you ready to get stuff done?"
Pidge laughed. "I can't imagine that there's much to do. It's stunning."
"Galran plants are really finicky sometimes though. They require affection, like puppies."
"That's perfectly fine with me," Pidge and Lotor started walking then, speaking to the plants. Pidge enjoyed this immensely and even got to plant a seed near the center of the garden. She made sure to encourage it to grow it's very best before they left to go back inside the castle.
"You haven't tripped once," Lotor said as they walked, and her eyes widened when she realized he was right.
"I'm just feeling really relaxed is all," But really, she was pleased. Now she was ready.
xx
It was the day of the coronation. Pidge was getting the last touches of her hair and makeup done- and she had to admit that she looked nice. Her makeup was natural, but enhanced her cheekbones and made her golden eyes pop. Her hair had been curled and pulled up in an elaborate bun, but leaving a few curls to frame her face. She was no longer afraid of walking in heels- she was even confident. As she got up from her chair, she briefly wondered if Lotor would compliment her.
They were in a grand Galran church, the ceiling arching high above her head. As she walked down the hall towards the area where the ceremony was taking place, she couldn't help but admire her reflection in any reflective surface. Going around the corner, she saw Lotor standing in front of the giant doors and hurried to stand beside him.
"You look lovely," He said, and she smiled, warmth blooming in her chest.
"You're one to talk. I'm surprised the walls haven't caved to your charms." She smiled as he beamed, a wide grin on his face.
"I'm glad you think so," She was about to tell him that she always thought so when Nanette appeared, looking frazzled.
"It's time, your Majesties."
Lotor held out his hand, looking over at her. "Ready?"
Without hesitation, she took his hand, and he gave her a gentle squeeze. "Ready."
Together, they entered the sanctuary. Like at their wedding, everyone in the assembly got to their feet and watched them walk down the aisle. Pidge keeps a smile on her face, but soon realized that it wasn't fake at all- She was excited about what the future had in store for her and Lotor. Searching the crowd of unfamiliar faces, she finally spotted her friends. Her brother was at home on Earth, of course. She was happy that he was home, but couldn't help but feel disappointed. She hadn't talked to him since her wedding. They got to the end of the aisle and stood before the High Priest. He looked down at them, a kind twinkle in his eye.
"Today, we are here to crown our new king and queen," Cheers rang around them, and Pidge looked up at Lotor, biting her lip. He squeezed her hand again before returning his attention to the task at hand. "They promise to restore peace to the planet and to the galaxies surrounding us," Pidge hoped her hand wasn't sweating too much. "Now, please, if they would kneel."
Both Pidge and Lotor got to their knees, bowing before the High Priest. Two boys stood beside the man, holding pillows with crowns on top. "Lotor, do you swear to protect this planet? Do you vow to keep its best interests at heart, and only act to make Galra flourish?"
"I do," Lotor said, and Pidge though she heard his voice waver. Glancing at him out of the corner of her eye, he looked a little pale. She tapped his hand with her index finger, just to remind him that she was there, and he gave her a small smile. Then, the High Priest placed the crown on Lotor's head.
"If you would stand-"
"Actually," Lotor interrupted, and Pidge heard a few gasps litter the room. "I'd like to stay kneeling until my wife gets to her feet first, if you wouldn't mind," A hush fell over them, but the High Priest took it in stride.
"Of course. Katherine," He went on with the same spiel that he said to Lotor, and she nodded.
"I do," the High Priest placed the other crown on her head then, the cool metal kissing the top of her head. Lotor helped her up while he still knelt on the floor, staying before her for a few moments. She wasn't sure what to do, but soon, he got to his feet as well.
"Katherine," Lotor said, breathing deeply, "I almost couldn't decide on what to get you," The room was so silent, Pidge thought she could hear a pin drop. "What could I give that was even remotely good enough? It took me a while, but I finally got it," His hand dived into his pocket, and then his palm lied flat in the air in front of her, holding a small black box. Moving his thumb, he flicked a switch and a hologram appeared above it. "It's that planet we landed on a couple of weeks ago. It's yours, Katherine. I hope you don't mind that I took the liberty of naming it after you- Katie," He lowered his voice, "Do you like it?"
Pidge was in shock. "You got me a planet?" She whispered, aware that her jaw was hanging wide open.
Lotor was looking nervous now, fidgeting slightly. "Do you like it?" He repeated, and this snapped her out of her daze.
"Of course! Of course I do, Lotor, it's just- a lot, you know? And now, what I got you- now I feel like I didn't give you enough," All of this was said so low that none of the audience could hear.
Lotor shook his head quickly. "Whatever it is, I guarantee that I already love it, I promise."
Cheeks darkening, Pidge turned around and grabbed a package from one of the crown bearers. She didn't say anything as Lotor opened it. He pulled the first piece of orange fabric from the bag.
"It's pajamas," Pidge said quickly before he could. "I made them myself, but I should've gotten you something better-"
Lotor hugged her to him, smothering her words. He kissed the top of her head lightly before pulling back, looking deep into her eyes, which widened when she saw how serious he was.
"This is the best gift I've ever been given, excluding your hand in marriage, of course. I'm honored that you took the time to make this for me," He smiled brightly, "I'll cherish it forever."
They turned toward the crowd then, heads held high, eyes shining with happiness.
"I now give you King Lotor and Queen Katherine!"
Pidge couldn't wipe the smile off of her face even if she wanted to.
Giving their gifts to Nanette, who promised to take them back to the castle, Pidge and Lotor began mingling and thanking the guests for coming. Pidge breathed a sigh of relief when they finally got to her friends. Allura squealed in delight and hugged Pidge tightly.
"You look absolutely stunning, Pidge! Like a real queen. Your crown is absolutely gorgeous."
Pidge touched it absentmindedly. "I didn't really get a good look at it."
"I had them modeled after our wedding crowns. The flower ones," Lotor said, and when she looked at him closely, she could see the silver flowers- so beautifully made that it was as if the flowers had been dipped in silver themselves.
"They're beautiful," She said, and he beamed. She wished she could take her crown off now and admire it, but she refrained. There would be time later.
"It's wonderful that you think so," Their gazes were stuck together for a few moments more before she had to tear her gaze back to Allura, whose grin was even wider if that was possible.
The other paladins formed a semicircle in front of them. "I thought you guys were back on Earth?" She said as she took turns hugging them all.
"We did up until yesterday," Lance laughed, "but once we heard the announcement, we decided to haul ass back here."
"And Matt?"
"Right here," A familiar voice said, and she whipped around, a wide smile overtaking her face. She flung herself at him. "Jeez, sis, it's only been two weeks."
"I've missed you," She mumbled- and she had. It had taken her years to find him, and she'd just gotten him back.
"Well, if you're excited to see me.." He took her by the shoulders and stepped aside. Tears were already falling down her face- She couldn't even form words as she was enveloped in the arms of her mother and father. In no time at all, she was bawling like a newborn. In the back of her mind, she could hear Nanette telling her that queens were always calm and composed, but she couldn't help it now. Her legs were wobbling as she finally stepped back.
"When did you guys get here?" She was holding a hand of each parent, and could feel the tears going down her face. She distantly wondered if her grip was hurting either of them.
"When Matt told us what was happening, we hopped on your friend's ship and headed here with them," Her mother said, matching tears in her eyes. "We figured we would sit near the back so you wouldn't bust a nerve."
Pidge laughed, hiccupping. "That's probably a good thing," She bit her lip, "I'm sorry I haven't called," Her mother covered Pidge's hand with her free one.
"Don't worry about it, dear. You were busy saving the galaxy. We understand."
"We're so proud of you Katie," Her father drew her attention now.
"I'm sorry I didn't find you soon enough," She was crying again, and felt an arm smooth down her back, soothing her. She looked up at Lotor, offering a wet smile.
"I'm here now," Her dad said, "and that's all that matters. I'm so proud of you- My little girl, Queen of the Galrans!"
Pidge blushed, abashed, and they decided then to move to the after event, Pidge changing into a more comfortable, but still stylish, dress. The after event was to rub elbows with the wealthy, but they obviously knew who Pidge's parents were, and let them have their peace, and for that she was grateful. They sat at a table in the middle of the room. Lotor was on her left, her parents to her right. It vaguely reminded her of the famous painting- the Last Supper?
After the initial toast, she listened to her mother gush. "My daughter's a queen!" Then, lower, "And married to such a handsome man, too. Don't you agree honey?" Her mother turned as she addressed her father, and Pidge took the moment to look up at Lotor. The slight upturn of his lips told her that he'd heard.
"You look stunning, Katie," Her father leaned forward to look at her. "I don't think I've ever seen you look more beautiful, except maybe when you were seven and sitting in the middle of my Jungle Of Machines. It took weeks to get all the grease off you."
"I think we have a picture somewhere," Her mother said, tapping her chin.
"I'd like to see her baby pictures," Lotor chimed in, and Pidge's cheeks darkened.
"You don't really-"
"Well, the albums are pack up in the attic right now, but I'm sure we can bring them down-" Pidge went to protest again, but realized that it was futile. Lance was snickering, and she wished that it was proper to flip someone off.
As Pidge's mother prattled on about the albums and the house, Pidge wished things were different. Not that she didn't want to be with Lotor, but she wished that he had had better parents so that she could make her in-laws proud. Maybe they would have a nice home and go for dinner once a month. She wished Lotor wouldn't have a sad gleam in his eyes while she interacted with her parents. She put her hand on his and squeezed lightly, and he flipped his hand over, interlacing their fingers. She was surprised when she realized his fingers were shaking slightly.
He ate with his left hand for the rest of dinner, not saying anything unless addressed directly. Pidge was content to just listen to the conversations as well, and noticed the looks her friends gave her and Lotor's intertwined hands- hands that rested on the table. When the event officially ended, they went back to the castle. After showing everyone to their respective rooms, Pidge and Lotor went to their own. Pidge sighed happily when she removed her shoes.
"That's a lot better," She said to herself and grabbed some night clothes to change into. After putting her dirty laundry into the basket, she returned to their room to find Lotor already dressed- in the pajamas she made, no less. "Do they fit okay?" She asked.
Lotor raised his arm, exposing just a sliver of midriff. Pidge did her best not to look. "They fit perfectly. How did you know my measurements?"
She leaned against the door frame. "I messaged the tailor."
"Smart."
"That's what I'm known for," She pointed out, crossing the room and getting into bed. Lotor followed her but didn't turn off the light. "So, a planet, huh?"
"I hope it's not over the top," Lotor scratched the back of his neck.
"I'm not going to lie- it's a lot. What are we supposed to do with it?"
"I have an idea, actually," Lotor said, and Pidge nodded for him to continue. "I was thinking we could build a nice house on it- there's a lake on one side. We could use it for vacation, and then later, when we retire, we could stay on that planet."
Pidge took a deep breath. "That sounds wonderful," She could almost feel the foliage tickling her cheek.
"We could use it for parties as well, but only for family and friends. For birthdays and get-togethers, or just for fun."
She felt the urge to kiss him.
As soon as she identified it, she buried to urge and asked him a different question. "Are we staying there tomorrow?
Lotor shook his head. "Construction isn't finished, so we'll be going to Earth. We'll be staying in your Italy, actually."
Pidge's heart leapt- it had been years since she'd last seen her home. "I can't wait."
"Me either," Lotor admitted, "Also, watch this!" He clapped his hands together twice, "Now my toes won't be injured every night."
"That's always good," She yawned. "Goodnight."
She didn't hear him as she fell asleep.
xx
The next morning, they had breakfast in the huge dining hall. Pidge was thankful for her new casual clothes- she wasn't sure she could take wearing dresses all the time. She was still wearing Lance's jacket, even though she'd tried again to give it back.
"No," He held up his hands, "It's yours now," and that was that.
Halfway through breakfast, Allura asked Pidge for a moment together- for a tour of the gardens. Pidge promised they'd be back within the hour and left. She knew a basic way around now, so she had no trouble leading the princess to the garden. Once they were outside, Allura spoke.
"So I noticed that you and Lotor look cozy."
Pidge looked over at her. "What do you mean?"
"You can barely stop looking at each other. Or, at least, Lotor can't keep his eyes off of you."
Pidge blushed, taking special interest in a flower. "I don't know what you're talking about."
"Your face is red," Allura laughed, "so obviously you do! Let's sit on this bench a moment please?" Pidge reluctantly joined her. "So I know we've never really spent much time together, Pidge, but I wanted you to know that I view you as a younger sister. I want you to know that you can tell me anything, especially girl stuff you can't talk to your brother about."
"Like Lotor?" She asked wryly.
"Exactly!" Allura squealed. "Speaking of Lotor, how have you both been these past few weeks?"
"It's been pretty friendly, I suppose."
"But you've been holding hands."
"Well yeah, but friends can hold hands too," Pidge said defensively, knowing where the princess was going.
"So do you like him?
"Yeah?" Pidge's face was burning.
"But in which way?" Allura asked, leaning forward.
"It's only been three weeks Allura, so we're just friends," The princess' face fell. "But I do think he's pretty," at this, Allura broke out in a grin. Pidge hid her face behind her hands.
"Tell me everything," Allura said, and Pidge did. She didn't realize until that moment just how much she needed to get these things off her chest. She told her about the big things, the little things. She told her about the chocolate and the plans for the planet.
"And I'm really just- happy. I don't know. He's nice," She felt like she wasn't conveying how she felt in the right words, but Allura's face told her that she understood.
"I have something to tell you too- we haven't even told the other paladins yet," Pidge nodded. "Shiro and I have gotten close. He asked me to marry him."
A feminine squeal came out of Pidge, surprising both of them. "When? How? Did you say yes?"
Allura arranged herself more comfortably on the bench. "H actually asked me before we thought Lotor was going to propose, the week right after the war ended. We were training out behind the castle, and he confessed and asked me to marry him. I said yes, but obviously, we had to keep it a secret."
"What happened then?"
"I knew my duty was to the galaxy first, so I broke it off the day after the initial announcement. Then, when Lotor said your name instead of mine, I'm sorry to say that I was initially relieved," Her blue eyes started watering. "That's what made me feel so bad after."
"Oh Allura," Pidge hugged the Altean to her, "Don't beat yourself up. I'm glad you felt okay at first, that was the point. I was afraid you'd be mad. The reason I offered myself was that I wanted you to be happy after the war."
"I just want you to know if you're really, truly okay. Pidge," Allura's voice dropped, "we would gladly go to war to bring you back."
Pidge's eyes widened, "I'm perfectly alright, Allura, I promise. I'm getting used to it already and I like Lotor's company. There isn't any need for that."
The princess nodded. "I just have one more thing to ask."
"What is it?"
She took a deep breath. "Will you be my maid of honor?"
Pidge beamed, "Of course."
When they got back to the breakfast table, Allura winked at her one final time as she went to join the paladins. Pidge automatically went to Lotor, her mouth still stretched big.
"What is it?" He asked, but she shook her head, fighting to keep her face under control.
"I'll tell you later."
Lotor took her hand absently. "We'll be leaving for Earth in about an hour. Would you like to go pack?" Nodding, Pidge waved to her friends and family as they disappeared down the hall.
"Have you packed yet?" She asked. Her hand tingled where their skin touched, sending shivers up her spine.
He nodded, hair swaying- it mesmerized her for a moment. "Yes, but I didn't know what you wanted to be done with yours, so I left it alone."
"Thank you," They reached their room then, and Lotor let go of her hand to grab a duffle out of the closet. Thanking him again, she took his place and started packing. "How long are we going to be staying?"
"I was thinking a 'week', as you Earthlings say," Pidge beamed at him, giving him a thumbs up. "I'm excited to see where you came from."
Pidge paused for a moment. "What about where you came from? Will you show me what you did as a kid?" It was quiet, and Pidge could feel her heart beating in her chest.
"Honestly," He started, and her breath quickened. "I would tell you anything you wanted to know, Katherine."
"You don't have to," She said, and resumed packing like she hadn't stopped.
"I want to," His voice was quiet. "I don't want to keep anything from you." The air was thick with tension. "Ask whatever you want."
Does he think I'm pretty?
The thought was automatic, but she didn't dare ask it. "Just tell me about when you were little. If anything reminds you of your childhood, tell me that too."
"Katherine," His voice was directly behind her now, making her jump slightly. She hadn't heard him walk up. "Do you only want to know of my past?"
She didn't turn around. "No. I want you to tell me everything," Why was she saying his? Why was it so hard to breathe? She was so caught up in the moment that she didn't even think about what she was saying.
"Katherine-"
"Call me Katie," Suddenly, she was turned around, looking up at him. She swallowed when she noticed just how close she was, and his eyes were searching her face.
"Katie," He sighed her name, and his hand came up to cup her face. His lithe fingers were shaking, but the light touch made her shiver.
"Hey are you guys ready-" The sudden voice broke them out of the moment and they leapt apart, Pidge falling into the closet and knocking her head into the wall. Lotor tripped on the duffel and promptly fell to the floor. "Oh my god- I'm so sorry. I should have knocked," Pidge recognized now that the voice belonged to Hunk, who was darting through the door and back out to the hallway.
Pidge blinked, trying to process what had just happened. She peeked out the closet opening to see Lotor get to his feet, a definite blush dusting across his cheekbones.
"I'll- uh, I'll leave you to it then," He stammered and hurried out the door. Pidge can't think of a time she'd ever seen him flustered. Smiling slightly to herself, she finished packing her clothes.
