III
The three of them knelt at the low table, sipping tea made by Juri and eating cookies made by Anthy.
It's a nightmare, thought Juri where she knelt at the head, staring down the table-length at Utena and Anthy across from each other. They were devouring each other more than any food and drink, and all with eyes alone.
Juri felt sick. She actually felt sweat beading her forehead.
It's a goddamn nightmare.
"How'd you find me?" Utena's voice was hushed and joyous, different from any voice she used with Juri at any time. It was frightening in its unfamiliarity.
"There was an article about Arisugawa-san," revealed Anthy, "in Top Modelling Monthly, and she mentioned her partner by name."
Juri swore at herself internally.
"Oh," Utena blushed to her roots, and stared down into her tea. "Oh, that was lucky."
"Yes." Anthy sipped her tea but didn't take her eyes away from Utena. "Thank you, Arisugawa-san."
"No problem," said Juri, all bitter politeness. "My pleasure to help you reunite."
"I'm so glad … so glad that … " Utena broke off her sudden declaration to gaze at Anthy, heart in her eyes. Juri fought the urge to roll her own.
"I know," said Anthy with a small knowing smile that gave Juri the creeps. Anthy reached across the table palm up, and to Juri's dismay Utena's hand covered Anthy's immediately. Juri stared at their clasped hands; they looked so natural together.
"Someday together," murmured Utena, and tears started rolling down her cheeks. Anthy lifted Utena's palm and pressed it against her own cheek.
Juri sat on her hands. It seemed prudent.