The Right Kind of Wrong
Chapter 6: Friends?
Perspectives in Bold.
Songs and time changes in Italics.
Okay so I know I said Monday, but I'm sorry. Anyways here's the latest chapter. The next is in the works and I hope to have it out in the next three days. It will be called Shooters and Liars so make what you want of that. Thanks to those who have been reviewing. I really enjoy hearing what everyone thinks about the chapters, also the guesses and prayers for some character's futures. Thanks for reading!
Music: Soulmate by Natasha Bedingfield
Disclaimer: I don't own MGLN or the songs used.
Enjoy!
Nanoha
Oxygen... need oxygen... In between gasps for air I managed to get out, "Why," breathing heavily, "why... did you... run so... fast?"
"Come again I didn't get all that."
"Mou... your not even tired?"
"No... now will get your sad carcass off of my lawn." Yes, I had collapsed on grass as soon as we reached Fate's house just as the sun went down.
"Well then help a friend. Please!" Spoiling myself I know.
"Okay... Arf help her get up." As soon as those words left my new friend's mouth a tongue was all over my face.
"Ewww... FATE!"
"Hahahaha... Hope you learned your lesson. Keep off the grass."
"I got my keys get in. Now, please... before Yunno let's loose the hounds to track you down."
"Hai, hai!" I said as I moved from the lawn to her truck. "I'm sure he hasn't called missing persons yet."
"I wouldn't test him." Once Arf and I were loaded in Fate started up the truck and we made our way down the road.
Since the sun had faded away it was impossible to see the surroundings, but I hoped for a second chance... soon. Although something was bothering me. "Why didn't you let me go into your house? Friends are suppose to be welcoming."
"Geez give me a break will you. All I needed was my keys... And you having soaking wet feet which I don't want walking all over my floors."
"Your so cruel... You probably just didn't want me to see how messy you are."
"Hah! Yeah right. I'm a clean person for your information. I'd figured you'd learn everything about me from Amy."
"I tried..." Thoughtlessly that slipped out, but I quickly spotted her raised eyebrows and tried to redeem myself, "I mean to you know understand Yunno and stuff. Yeah."
"Whatever... stalker." Fate murmured.
"Ehhh!" I slapped her arm as my driver just laughed at my expense. I've never enjoyed pointless banter until now.
Even as we sit in silence, I can't help but feel completely at ease. There's no need for words. I'm simply enjoying the feel of being close to her. She seemed to emit this energy that just brought me peace. Seeing the house coming up fast my only thought was that I didn't want this day, this moment of tranquility to end.
"Alright, FRIEND." Fate emphasized, "Goodnight for the second time. Please don't pop out of my closet later I might call the cops on instinct."
"Goodnight meanie." Sticking out my tongue as I got out.
"Nanoha!" I turned with such speed I think my neck is going to be kinked. The angel looked down at the seat, then back into my eyes, "Thanks... for today... for everything. Please take care of yourself." Genuine concern in those burgundy orbs shocked me.
"Don't worry about me. Geez were out in the country what's the worst that can happen..." Should've never said that...
Shaking her head, probably at my naïve mind, "Says the one who is constantly headed for a wall."
"For some reason I only have that problem when your around. So I should be fine now." I realized we were in the driveway, car running, completely immersed in teasing. Leaving would be smart... feet move... now... nope were stuck in the mud.
"I should go now... before Lindy calls me in." One last glance, "Bye Nanoha."
"Bye Fate." With that she left... As I watched her leave I could help but feel slightly lost. Collecting my foolish self, reality finally hit me as I could hear the squish of my wet shoes. GROSS! Fate was probably right, my poor feets, all pruny and disgusting. Hating the thought I looked up to see the curtains move. No wonder Amy knows all secrets, she has the best rumor radar. Going into the house I prepped for an interrogation. This night just got longer.
Fate
Being around her... those sapphire eyes have an unexplainable strength to them. The power to make you do and say things that you tried your hardest not to. With long brunette hair, an athletic body and gems for eyes she was undoubtedly beautiful... but I try not to look so closely... try. Possibly it was her headstrong ways... But there was something more to the Japanese woman. In her eyes laid incredible strength, but in those same blue depths also lay a secret or two. Figuring them out would lay my curiosity to rest but everyone has secrets. Uncovering secrets of another requires surrending your own. So that's not going to happen...
As great as her strength maybe... I doubt it will it be enough to protect her from the dangers we attract. I can only pray nothing happens...
Nanoha
"Good Morning, Aunty Lindy." After a few mornings of being awoken by Hell's rooster the early morning rising had become routine. So even without the feathered menace I still rose at the crack of dawn to go running in the forest... minus any detours.
"Mornin' Nanoha, just poured my first cup of green tea. Want any?" Lindy waved the pot of hot water in front of me.
"No thanks... not really a tea drinker." Oddly enough.
"So any..." Before Lindy could finish her question Yunno had already wrapped his arms around me to face him. Placing a good morning kiss on my lips.
"Mmmhh... now it's a good morning," Yunno smiled while saying, "Oh... I'm sorry about coming home so late last night. Johnny and the guys dragged me into some cow tippin'."
"That's fine. Just glad you had fun." Cow tippin'...
"Ahh... that's my girl. Always too good to me." A pause. "Did you have fun with Hayate yesterday? I saw you bought quite a few things." Well I didn't exactly buy all of it...
"Yeah we had a great time..." Think quickly, no dammit don't think about Fate... what did I do with Hayate? She told me to go shopping with Fate... Think... think... Oh, "Hayate-chan took me to her bridal store." Good enough, "It was beautiful. I can't believe she has her own business. Kind of makes me feel like a failure... hahaha." Awkward.
"You're not a failure, silly girl." A pause, "far from it." All the while Lindy watched our interaction with fake disinterest. "Oh yeah, today Johnny said he'd take me out fishing. And... if you wanted to come you could. So... do you?" Oh my... "I mean I didn't think you had any plans, right?"
"Well..."
With heavenly timing Lindy cut in, "Actually, I was planning on taking Nanoha around today. Maybe show her the clinic, some landmarks, things like that."
Yunno frowned at the idea, "But I can do that..."
Receiving a shut-your-mouth glare, Lindy spoke in a scary calm voice, "Yunno, I'm sure it would be more enjoyable if it was just a guy's day out on the lake. Not to mention, you haven't been home in while. Your mother, though, has been here a while... so allow me to be the tour guide. Alright?" That wasn't really a question.
"Yes, ma'am." Shrinking back slowly, frightened green eyes darted to the toaster to see if the bagels he threw in were done. Probably so he could grab them and make a break for it. Sure enough as soon as the bread reared up, "Well... I better be on my way... I think I hear Lanster's truck. Bye Mom. Bye Nanoha, love you." With that quick farewell he was out the door.
"Bye!" We both shouted.
"Worked better than I'd planned." The older woman continued with a victorious grin. Then, that grin turned dangerous as teal eyes landed on the phone, "Well Nanoha, I would take you around today, but I have to work." Before I could say that it was fine, "However there is someone with a mandatory vacation right now."
"Mandatory vacation?" I didn't miss the strange term.
"She's suspended." Let's just say I'm hopeful, but I refuse to let my hopes get higher than the ceiling about who that person might be. Perhaps a bit higher. "We suspend her, otherwise that girl's gonna work until she falls face first with some kinda flu. Anyhow, let's see if she answers."
Fate
Trying to catch my breath I take one more deep breath before answering, "Mother... What now?" Whoever created caller id got tired of being surprised by his or her family members. That's got to be the reason.
"Mornin' friendly." She wants something. A child can always tell when they're mother wants something from the tone of voice.
"What do you want?" I question with effort.
"Can't I just call my daughter to ask how she's doing? A mother should be allowed to check on her children, shouldn't she?" Mock hurt evident.
"Call Chrono. If its a update you want... I just finished training, I'm sweaty and I want a shower. So if you'll let me go..."
"Fate, don't you dare hang up this phone. I will suspend you from work another week." Damn this woman is good.
"Listening..."
"Good, Nanoha," Oh my own mother is working against me. I'm only human for chrissake, "Don't sigh. As I was saying Nanoha didn't want to go fishing with Johnny and Yunno so do you think..."
"Yeah, yeah I'll babysit. I want to let you know you're inconveniencing me." Not really, but sort of... stupid mandatory vacation.
"Oh, I'm sure all you'd do is train all day or sulk and sing by your lonesome self." Somewhere, somehow that hurt... Cause she was right. "Now what time will you be by?" I could hear the 'I don't want to intrude upon her' in the background. After hearing that lying voice I didn't feel as irritable as before.
"Tell her I'll be by in an hour. And make sure she has on jeans, her hat and a long-sleeve button up shirt. Got it?" A plan was starting to form... I think.
"Anything else?"
"Oh and her boots. That's all. Bye Mother, always a pleasure."
"Better be. Take care dolly." And with that the Admiral left me in dangerous territory. Although I did promise to be friends. I don't ever go against promises. Thus, long day here I come.
Nanoha
Sitting here on the porch swing, I can't help but feel a little irritated by the thought of being forced upon someone. I didn't enjoy being thought of as a burden. In spite of this, being thrust upon Fate was not an idea I was opposed to. Note to self chose better words to describe situation, 'thrust' is not favorable. Oh bad thoughts disappear. Well there's the black monster truck.
Rolling down the window my impatient driver shouts, "What do I have to lift you in?" Unable to stop my imagination I envisioned that situation... not something I should want.
"Thanks for taking me." I need a better vocabulary. "I mean... you... taking care of me... today."
"Don't thank me yet, friend." Sarcasm detected. Smirking, "Anyways, I do have a vacation right now so whatever."
"I feel the love." I deadpan. "Mandatory vacation." Grinning as I jabbed her back. Must've worked as the grin vanished.
"Huh. Vacation is vacation."
"Mandatory makes a big difference. Why'd you get suspended?"
A sigh, "You ask too many questions... and the Admiral already told you."
"Partially..." Yes I'm information-greedy nowdays.
"Ahh, partially... well the information highway goes both ways you know. I need to know about you right? I mean if were gonna be friends and all." I swear I saw a slight blush but it was quickly concealed.
"True."
"So Amy said something about you being from Uminari City and Hayate said you're a Physical Education teacher." Raising my eyebrows as the information about myself given out by the two gossip queens. Side-glancing at me she simply said, "Hey, both ways remember."
"What else did they tell you?" There are a few secrets I don't need Hayate revealing.
"Nothing I'm gonna use now. So come on share." The angel pleaded.
"Okay well I am from Uminari City. My parents own a bakery and I still live with them."
"Really? I thought you lived with Yunno."
No way, "No we haven't discussed that yet. Anyways," moving out of that hole, "Last year, after graduation I managed to get a job as a teacher but..." I can already feel the heat moving to my cheeks, "I was fired after three weeks." Now it was those perfect eyebrows to lift as I continued my story, "There was a discrepancy with a child. He called me a 'fat white devil' after I made them run two miles. It was creative since I was wearing a white jumpsuit, but I lost it. Told him if he had enough energy for making creative names then perhaps he had enough to run another five miles. He fainted on the fourth, so yeah."
"Wow you are a devil."
"Fate!" Slapping her on the arm.
"Ahh... abuse... battery... someone help."After laughing at my expense the driver asked, "So what now? Where're you working?"
"Umm... well part time I work at the bakery for my parents. I believe they want me to take over the business, but..."
"And you? What is it that you want, desire, crave for? Huh?" Nothing I can say out loud. Bad thoughts fly away.
"I'm not sure you know. I enjoyed teaching but I screwed up, so currently I do private...umm... security."
"Is that so? Do you have the flash light, the stick..."
"Shut up! It's not like that."
"Hahaha... okay, okay. Well security guard, ready to be a cowgirl."
"OH...MY...GOD."
"Not the response I was expecting..." Cutting her off quickly.
"This is your place! I mean all this. That giant house and barn. All yours?"
She just smiled and shook her head, "Yes. All mine, I own four hundred acres here. Mostly its all inherited land." Pausing, "I thought you saw all of this yesterday."
"Well, some but not really. You know it was dark. And someone exhausted me. But this is... wow. You have too much money." I really couldn't think of many words to describe it. White fences ran along the outside perimeter. The house was beautiful stained wood on the outside and you could see a vaulted ceiling from the outside because of large windows in the front side. The backside of the house had the cedar and oak forest. Next to a red and white barn was what looked like an auditorium. Probably wearing my thinking face to try and figure out what the object was...
"That's an indoor arena sometimes I hold events here. They run late into the night so its good to have lights and protection from the weather."
"Sure..." I still don't know what it is.
"You ever rode a horse?"
"Noooo... I tend to avoid things with large teeth and you know things that are like a thousand pounds of muscle." The blonde only smiled, shaking her head. As we got out,
"Here's the plan for today. First, I'm going to show you how to clean a stall. Then, you're going to muck all the stalls. And... why are you raising your hand?"
"So... when you say cleaning... clarify please."
"I'll show you after." A pause. "Continuing... what is it now?"
"By all, how many do you mean?"
"... After." Maybe I asked the wrong questions.
"Right... continue."
A sigh. "Okay, now what... yeah anyways, while you muck out the stalls I'll be making lunch." Somehow I get the feeling I just got handed the hard job. "All the horses should be out in the paddocks so cleaning won't be a problem. After all that we'll check the land. Come on I'll show you the barn." As we entered the barn I was struck by the smell of pine and something not as pleasant. "Okay so here's your weapons," not a good sign, "a pitchfork and a wheel-barrel. I'll demonstrate one stall then you'll do the rest." Leading me to a horse's stall she proceeded to scoop up the green piles of yuck and throw them into wheel-barrel. "So, once its all clean and you've got the wet shavings too. Take the wheel-barrel to the end of the barn where there's a manure pile and dump it. Try not to fill it up too much or it might tip over. That's all for now."
"That's all... that it huh? There's like twenty-four stalls!"
Completely unfazed she just stared at me as if I just spoke Japanese... crap... I did. "Good. Got complaints out of your system. Get work, good luck!" The burgundy-eyed woman casually walked away from me.
"Not cool." But, will not be broken by this chore! As I dumped my first load I saw a sorrel horse running full blast across a paddock. For a second I thought the speedster was going to run into the fence, but turned so fast I got whiplash. After a few more seconds of watching the shiny red beauty I went back to work.
One hour later...
I'm sweaty and probably stinky... "Finally done." Now that I think about it though... it took me that long and there was only five stalls occupied plus Fate did one. Of course the red-eyed slave-driver arrived right on cue.
"Ah you finally finished." I only had the energy to look angry. "Easy there tiger... I made the saddle bags and saddled the horses so were ready to go. Use the bathroom before we leave, unless your fine going in the bushes. Meet me in the front of the barn after." All I could muster was a nod and then waddled away.
Fate
Least she works hard. Now getting on this horse is going to be interesting. "There you are. Ready to ride?" She just looked at me for a while, eyes wide, and began to shake her head. "You're ready. Let me introduce you to your horse. This is Raging Heart." I should probably use her more docile name, "You can call her Scampi like shrimp scampi you know cause she's small..er." The terrified expression still didn't leave her face, "She's a good horse, I can trust her to take care of anyone. She's young, strong, I mean super strong most people can't handle her speed or ability..." Burying myself. "You're hard-headed and so is she. It's a winning pair. Come on, up you go." Distrusting eyes went back and forth between Raging Heart and I.
Deciding to use force I went behind Nanoha and brought her hand up to just touch Raging Heart's silky coat. Then, moved her so she was facing Heart's face. "Look into those eyes. Do you see the slight apprehension?" Receiving a nod I continued, "She has gentle eyes, but strong spirit just like you. She's worried about who you are just as much as how your worried about who she is. All you need to do is place a little trust in each other, okay? And in me. I would never place you in danger on purpose you know?" That went beyond just riding a horse. Deep blues softened, then regaining the fearlessness that they usually held.
"Okay, I can do it."
"Good." I gave her a boost to get on... next time we'll just use a fence or something. That was a little to close to be comfortable.
"I'll show you a few things you need to know before we leave."
Nanoha
After my brief riding instructions we were off to check the land as Fate had said. As we rode my head darted back and forth trying to see everything that we were passing. Arf led the way and I was amazed by the pups stamina to go so far without falling behind. We went through green pastures, then cut across some rolling hills. Then we entered what Fate told me was an apple and nut orchard. All the places we passed through carried this unexplainable tranquility with them. A feeling of peacefulness was hard to resist in this place. Only had the occasional chirping of birds, scurrying of squirrels or cottontails made any noise. I saw a red fox run away from us, but didn't worry about it because it was just too cute since two little pups were following right behind. Suddenly my horse stopped and I noticed Fate was getting off of her horse. Slightly confused I stared at her.
"Lunch." The golden blonde said waving her saddle bags. Carefully I tried to dismount as I had seen her do so easily. As my feet hit the ground, my legs gave way having fallen asleep from riding so long. The hit didn't come though as two arms snaked under my arms to prop me up. A husky voice softly spoke into my ear, "You okay?"
Fighting the shiver I concentrated on my sleeping lower half, "Yeah, but I think my legs fell asleep... and I can't feel my butt."
"I see. That happens to a lot of first timers. Come on cowgirl, let's walk it off." Leaning on Fate I walked a bit until my legs were awake again. While we were doing that Raging Heart had been following right behind me all along.
Once I could stand on my own... though I felt tempted to act like I couldn't... I asked, "Why did she follow?" Raging Heart was simply watching me, then bumped me with her nose. Out of instinct I reached out to stroke her forehead. An action she didn't seem to mind.
Fate smiled as she said, "Well, your her rider right? She was concerned. And they usually follow their master... if they're trained right."
"I see. So you trained her?"
"Yeah, but she's only a three year old and I don't really have the time to ride her a lot because I already have Bardiche." She nodded towards the tall black beauty tied to the tree, then tied Raging Heart to the same tree.
As we began to eat our sandwiches she spoke again, "I rescued Bardiche from the quarter horse race track. One of the owners had been abusing his horses, so after they were taken away. All of 'em needed to be treated at the clinic and I just fell in love with him. I left him as a stallion because he has a good bloodline and... I should probably stop because I'm losing you."
"Yeah... I don't need too much detail. He can breed, I understand." Lunch was quiet although I didn't really mind. With Fate silence was comfortable, relaxing even. The only loud noise was Arf munching her dog chow.
Once we were finished Fate cleaned up, but before I could get up she said, "Uh, you wait here for a minute I need to check something around here."
"I'll go with you."
"No!" That was fast. "I mean its just ranch stuff so just sit tight... and PLEASE don't go anywhere." With that the blonde disappeared into the forest leaving me alone... well alone with a puppy.
At first I was fine, but then my environment went from peaceful to eerie. The trees made it shadowy and cool, expect there was no breeze. Paranoia began to creep in. Not good... not good. My hand hovered at my back. Fate had been gone about fifteen minutes now and Arf was sleeping. Every little movement of the bushes became suspicious. I could feel my heart rate increase. It was then I felt arms constricting my own, before I could scream, before I could blink someone had snuck up on me. I relaxed after a minute of being engulfed by the scent I came to know so well from crashing into it. "Fate..." I whisper.
"Jumpy aren't you. You don't think I'd leave you here unprotected. I mean as long as Arf is at your side so am I." The low unique voice sent shivers down my spine. "And since when do you carry a knife?" I can't believe she found that, I thought I hide it well under my shirt. But there it is on the ground in front of me. How can I be caught off guard so easily? "Well?" I could say since you told me about the wolves and your crazy mother, but that wouldn't go well.
"Since someone decided to leave me alone in some weird forest." I spoke with mock anger because let's face it how can I be angry when a beauty is pressed up against my back. "You do enjoy sneaking up on me don't you? I'm starting to think you like holding me."
She ignored the question, "I think I should frisk you for anymore weapons. Who knows what and where you're hiding them." As I blushed I felt her release me and start laughing.
"FATE!" I slapped her on the back.
"Always resorting to violence." She continued to laugh at my expense. I just crossed my arms in frustration.
"So mean."
"Oh relax there lil' devil. Let's go." She said ruffling my hair as she passed. I curse the four inches she has over me.
"Hey! My hair!"
"What's the problem?"
"You messed it up!"
"Doesn't matter does it. I'm the only one looking at you." Okay I'm stumped. I have nothing to say at all...
As we began to make our way back I could faintly hear Fate singing something along the lines of,
Who doesn't long for someone to hold
Who knows how to love you without being told
I gave up trying to guess when she turned around to, I assume, check on me. With a quick glance she turned back and I thankfully didn't get caught staring at her. Once she was looking forward again, I inspected her back closely. Even though her shirt was loose I could still make out the muscle structure, the strong shoulders. And yes, I do have a bit of a back obsession. Catching myself before I stared too closely I began looking around again.
Two hours later...
Fate
I was afraid she might have some difficulty getting off again, but I knew I shouldn't ask if she needed help. Watching closely I saw her get off carefully. Slowly lowering herself and taking a while to get adapted to standing again. When I began unsaddling the horses and putting the tack away the brunette disappeared for a while. With the cold shoulder she gave me I could only assume she was still angry.
Sitting on the side watching as I hung the saddle blankets. The air was a little to chilly to wash the horses so I began to brush them. From the corner of my eye Nanoha took two brushes and began on Raging Heart. Once we were finished I caught a proud smile on her face as she ran her hand over Heart's neck. The smile soon faded as she caught my glance. I need to fix this.
We feed and watered the horses placing them in their stalls for the night. Unable to take the icy glares any longer I gave up, "I'm sorry about earlier." Silence, "Please Nanoha, forgive me." I gave my best puppy dog eyes. Yes weakening... or maybe not. That smirk isn't a good sign.
"Okay... But sing that song for me."
"What song?"
"The one you were singing earlier. On the trail." Ah man... Why is apologizing so difficult with her? I can't screw up anymore.
"Fine... Let's go up to the loft I have my guitar up there." Sitting down on a stool, a red-orange glow from the setting Sun lit the loft. My little devil sat down on the couch across of me as I prepared. "You are soooo spoiled."
"Ah this is what you get for sneaking up on me... and teasing me. Now sing please!"
"Alright, alright..." Taking a deep breath and closing my eyes,
Incompatible, it don't matter though
'cos someone's bound to hear my cry
Speak out if you do
You're not easy to find
I never sang this for anyone before. It was just a song I sang when I was thinking or not thinking at all.
Is it possible Mr. Loveable
Is already in my life?
Right in front of me
Or maybe you're in disguise
Eyes closed lost in the music. I thought about the words as I softly picked at the strings.
Who doesn't long for someone to hold
Who knows how to love you without being told
Somebody tell me why I'm on my own
If there's a soulmate for everyone
It was a song I began singing a short time after Alicia left. It left me wondering about the way I had loved her, the way we fell in love.
Here we are again, circles never end Who doesn't long for someone to hold If there's a soulmate for everyone
How do I find the perfect fit
There's enough for everyone
But I'm still waiting in line
Who knows how to love you without being told
Somebody tell me why I'm on my own
If there's a soulmate for everyone
I thought about how close we were, then how we fell so far apart. I knew love took effort, it took work but there must have been some way to tell if two people are meant to be. What was that feeling? When would I know? How could I tell? Most importantly, I was lonely even when I was with Alicia.
Most relationships seem so transitory Who doesn't long for someone to hold Who doesn't long for someone to hold
They're all good but not the permanent one
Who knows how to love you without being told
Somebody tell me why I'm on my own
If there's a soulmate for everyone
Who knows how to love you without being told
Somebody tell me why I'm on my own
If there's a soulmate for everyone
If there's a soulmate for everyone
'When would that person come because I'm so alone'. That is what I used to think sometimes. Now only crosses my mind sometimes, but this song still reminds me of the hollow feeling that I used to have. However I couldn't really feel that emptiness right now.
Finishing the last line, I finally opened my eyes only to be greeted by sad blue looking back at me. Tears running down her cheek. I smiled softly and moved to wipe away the tears on her cheek. Simply put, it felt natural to want to stop her crying. "Sorry I didn't know I sucked that badly. I made you cry."
"Idiot..." came out muffled as she pulled me in for a hug. Surprise most clear on my face I regained my composure to return the embrace. Whispering into my ear she softly said, "You're not alone anymore." Closing my eyes and inhaling the fragrance that was distinctly Nanoha. To say we're two friends comforting each other would be appropriate, but I'm not sure that's what we are.
"I know." Pausing to gain my control, "Come on crybaby. I better get you home."
"Okay." But as I moved to leave I saw her frustrated face, "Umm... Fate could you help me get up. I'm stuck."
"Right." After I helped her into the truck and made sure Arf was safe sleeping in the house, we left. As I reached Lindy's house I noticed my companion had fallen asleep. "Geez looks like I wore you out." Scooping her up, I carried her to the house where my Mother opened the door, "Thanks."
"No problem. You worked her too hard."
"Just riding, so where?"
"On the couch."
"Okay."
"Are you staying for dinner?"
"No."
"Alright." My mentor turned away as I laid the sleeping beauty down on the couch, removing her boots. Taking out the rubber band holding her hair I couldn't resist the urge to run my hand through those reddish-brown locks. "Good night lil' devil." I said softly as I placed a kissed upon her forehead. Retracting backwards I realized what I had just done, but before I could think anymore about it. A mocking voice came from the doorway.
"Careful Fate, you might wake the princess." With smirk Amy left the room, leaving me blushing.
"Dammit... I need to get home."