Disclaimer: I don't own anything.
Author's Note: You know, this chapter was going to be the Fiyeraba 'sleepover' chapter but after reading the reviews for the last chapter, I got an idea in my head for a scene with Glinda and Boq. I wanted to sort of develop their friendship and maybe give a little insight into what's going on with Glinda. Things are not resolved for her and she'll have issues of her own later on, but hopefully this'll help set that up when it comes. And I figured that it was time for Boq to get a little more of a part, especially since he'll be more important later. So I hope everyone enjoys this little scene and that it didn't move too quickly. Finally, thank you everyone for reading it and for all the reviews. I really am interested to see what everyone as to say and like having the chance to know what needs to be worked on, to grow as a writer. So please keep them coming.
Boq was enjoying a walk around the grounds of Shiz, happy to be free of Nessa for a little while. It wasn't that he didn't like her, but she could be a little tiring on her best days and every now and then he needed a break. She was currently in class and he had a free period so he had taken the opportunity to get some fresh air. He rounded a corner and crashed right into something – or rather, someone, knocking all their things to the ground.
"Oof!" he mumbled. "Sorry about that, I wasn't paying attention." He looked up and found himself looking at Glinda.
"That's okay, Boq, neither was I," she assured him.
"Here, let me get your things for you," he said, stooping down to gather her papers. "Wow – did you draw all of these?"
"Oh yes. That's my current new project," she said proudly.
"But Glinda, this look like a giant bubble of some sort," he said, confused.
"Exactly! Who says you have to walk everywhere? I envision a world full of people traveling in new style – in the air!" she exclaimed.
"Wouldn't that be dangerous? I mean, what if two bubbles crash into each other?" he asked.
"Hmm…well, maybe I should just worry about figuring out how to make myself travel by bubble first," she pondered. He got up to his feet and handed her the papers.
"Are you alright, Glinda?" he asked.
"Well of course I'm alright," she answered. "Why would you think otherwise?"
"Just wondering. Everyone's been a little different since, well…you know," he said softly.
"Yes," Glinda said. "I think we've all maturified since the incident."
"But, you're sure you're alright?" he pressed. She smiled, though Boq couldn't help but wonder if it was forced.
"I told you, yes. I'm fine," she said.
"Well if you want someone to talk to and you know, Fiyero's not around…" Boq started
"Me and Fiyero are no longer an item," she informed him.
"Oh?" Boq tried to contain his shock but found it difficult.
"We're not suited for each other and he loves my roommate. We're still friends though," she added, meeting his eyes briefly.
"I…Glinda, are you sure you're alright with this? You two were together for a while…"
"Oh Boq. He's in love with Elphie and would be good for her. She's been through so much, you know? She deserves to be happy and if he's the one to make that happen, well…then he should. She's my best friend, I want her happy," Glinda said, forcing another smile.
"Yes, but what about you?" he asked gently.
"I…okay…maybe it stings a little, but what was I supposed to say? Oh Fiyero, I know you don't love me and are in love with my roommate, but please stay with me?" Glinda sighed. "How could I stand in the way of something that could be beautiful? And besides…if I were to be truthful, I don't love him. Not as anything more than a friend. Maybe it stung a little, but…"
"I wonder…ever since the…incident, Nessa has been clingier than usual. Elphaba has been trying to convince everyone that she's okay and you seem to be putting on a brave front for her. I know we're all worried about Elphaba, but Glinda…that doesn't mean you have to ignore how you're feeling," Boq said, briefly squeezing her hand. Glinda let out another sigh.
"Okay yes, I am hurting a little big, but I will be okay. I know it's for the best," she said finally.
"Well, I'm here for you if you ever need me," he said.
"Thank you, that's very sweet of you," she smiled – this one, genuine. "So what were you up too when we crashed into each other?" she asked, changing the subject.
"Just taking a walk around campus. Nessa has class and I needed some fresh air. Would…would you care to join me?" he asked.
"Why not? A walk with a friend may be just what I need," she answered. He offered her his arm, which she took with another smile.
