Glinda awoke, slightly disoriented as to her whereabouts, until she smelled the faint scent of clove oil and smiled, then pouted, because Elphie wasn't in bed. When she remembered today was symphony day she bounded up and went in search of her friend.
"Elphie?" She padded into the bathroom.
She found her already dressed, pulling her hair into a ponytail.
"Good morning my sweet" She said tightening the band in her hair. "Did you sleep well?"
"I did, but your sleep seemed agitated last night" She said wrapping her arms around the green girl. "Did you have a bad dream?"
"I really don't remember, which is a good thing" She kissed Glinda's forehead "I'm fine and ready for a fun day"
"It will be fun to see what my mom has planned for us, she wouldn't tell me."
"And you survived, imagine that." She chuckled and gave Glinda a hard hug. "I'm going down to the library, please come for me when you are dressed- Ok?"
"Ok. You look great by the way- nice taste in clothes"
"Oh I didn't buy this- some overly perky, blonde socialite girl got it for me" She said her face passive.
Glinda narrowed her eyes. "Would this be the same blonde you told me you were in love with on our trip up here," She said hands on hips, tapping her foot, barely suppressing a grin
"That would be the one- yes. Now go get ready, I'll meet you downstairs." She kissed Glinda quickly and headed out.
"Mean green thing" She huffed, walking out after her.
Elphie waved as she turned to go down the stairs.
Glinda went through her wardrobe, looking for a fun outfit. She found a lovely pale yellow one with a full, flowing skirt that had embroidered butterflies up the side. She hurriedly went about the business of getting ready, but slowed her pace when she realized what Elphie was more than likely doing in the library.
Elphie walked down to the library humming, she was actually feeling happy. In spite of their argument yesterday, she and Glinda seemed to be none the worse for wear. The thought of that amazed her, it wasn't so long ago that she wouldn't have even bothered arguing, because it wouldn't have been worth it.
In the library, Elphie scanned the shelves looking for the section she wanted, and found it easily because it was one of the largest. She selected a book that seemed to suit her needs and folded herself into a chair by the window to study it. It was almost an hour before Glinda came flitting in. She fell into a chair across from Elphie.
"Did you find something?" She asked quietly
"This is very enlightening," She said showing Glinda the book she chose. "I'll tell you about it later, if you want to know." She said removing her glasses.
"Of course I want to know, my love" She smiled lovingly at the girl sitting across from her. "Do you wish to stay and read for awhile longer?"
"Not really. I'm a little hungry. " She put her book and glasses on the table "Don't let me forget where I put these, I left my spare pair back at school."
"I'll remind you. I'm starving- let's eat!" She grabbed Elphie's hand and pulled her towards the door.
"Besides we've got a big day and I'm about to burst with excitement"
"I thought you said you imploded" She laughed
"Elphie, honestly- that's perky, not excitement" She giggled
"Silly me" Elphie said walking quickly down the hall in order to keep up with her small, but very energetic best friend.
They were in the middle of a light, but delicious breakfast when Glinda's mother came in
"Good morning darlings"
Glinda went over and kissed her mother "Good morning Momsie"
"Good morning Mrs. Upland" Elphie echoed.
"I see you two are ready and eager to go."
"Glinda's about to burst, actually" Elphie commented matter-of-factly.
"Is she now?" Mrs. Upland said arching an eyebrow and chuckling.
"Momsie, What do you have planned for today?"
"What makes you think I have planned anything dear?" Her eyes twinkled merrily
"Don't tease me" Glinda pouted.
"Don't pout Galinda darling- I thought we might spend the morning at the salon."
"Yeah! Manicures and facials. What do you think Elphie?"
"Well I've never been to a salon or had a manicure or facial. So I'm not sure what to think"
"Elphaba, you've never been to a salon?" Glinda's mother was shocked
"I know- we got to her just in time, didn't we Momsie" Glinda said conspiratorially.
"I'm such a tragic figure" Elphie laughed, and the others joined in.
"Alright girls, we are due at the spa in an hour, and Galinda I know you were going to run an errand with your father first, so Jefet will have the carriage ready in 15 minutes. Can you be ready?"
"Absolutely" Glinda chirped "Elphie?"
"Me too" She laughed at the wiggling girl "Stop squirming and come on, or they may just leave without us"
"They wouldn't!" Glinda said horrified
"10 minutes girls" her mother said
Glinda fled the room "Come on Elphie"
Elphie looked at her love's mother and chuckled "She is exhausting sometimes"
"Elphie!" Glinda whined from the hall.
"Best not to keep her waiting Elphaba." She laughed and took the green girls hand "Her antics don't bother you at all do they dear?"
"Not in the least Mrs. Upland, not in the least" She smiled and left the solarium
"Lyndie, I need you to do me a favor" Elphie said as they walked up to their rooms "Please try and restrain yourself in the physical affection department while we are out"
Glinda sighed "I'll try, if I must, but only because I know it makes you uncomfortable."
"Thank you Lyndie. Here in the house is one thing, but out there, I fear would be too much."
"I shall confine myself to actions appropriate to school friends of our age, walking arm in arm and quick hugs- how's that?"
"I think I can handle that" She hugged her friend, but not quickly, and gave her a gentle kiss.
"Girls! We are running late" Mrs. Upland called from the bottom of the stairs
"Coming Mom" Glinda yelled "Elphie, don't forget your umbrella"
They grabbed their things and ran down the stairs
"Here we are" Glinda said "Almost on time"
"Elphaba, please do not let her corrupt you completely" Mrs. Upland chuckled
"Hey!" Glinda said with her hands on her hips
"Funny, Cook told me the same thing last night" She winked at Glinda, who was pouting
In response Glinda stuck her tongue out at Elphie when her mother wasn't looking
Glinda's father was waiting for them in the carriage
"It's about time" He laughed
"Galinda was busy corrupting Elphaba dear, but I think she is finished now."
He helped the ladies into the carriage
"Good morning Popsicle" She said kissing her father and sitting beside him. "They are just being mean to me." She snuggled with him, alternating between pouts and grins.
"Glinda, you know you haven't the capability to corrupt me," Elphie said seriously
"Careful Elphaba dear, she loves a challenge" Mr. Upland said
Glinda giggled "Why do think I befriended that mean green thing in the first place"
"Galinda Upland! Such talk" Her mother said completely taken aback
Elphie was laughing "It's a term of endearment, Mrs. Upland- really"
"Sorry mommy" Glinda said contritely " "I was just teasing her- I call her that all the time"
Elphie shrugged and nodded in agreement. The Uplands simply shook their heads and chuckled.
They chatted and joked and before Elphie knew it they were in town. Glinda asked to switch places with her mother.
Elphie, are you still fine with staying with my mom for awhile"
"Of course Glinda, I'm looking forward to it" She smiled at Mrs. Upland, who returned it warmly.
"Jefet, please drop us off at the Stable Shop, right over there" Glinda's mom said
"Galinda, we will meet you at the salon in half an hour." She continued
"Yes Momsie" Glinda said
Mr. Upland chimed in "Jefet will be back for you three at noon, to take you to the park. The concert starts soon after, and our picnic will be ready and waiting."
Glinda was beaming, and beyond containment. Her mother shook her head and sighed.
"She's your problem now Samion, please try and settle her down a little" Mrs. Upland said accepting Jefet's hand and exiting the carriage, with Elphie following behind.
"I can make no promises" He laughed, hugging his exuberant daughter
"See you soon Elphie, Have fun Momsie" She waved as the carriage pulled away.
"Now Elphaba, let's go pick up your riding clothes," Glinda's mother said taking Elphie's arm.
"Riding clothes?… Oh that's right I forgot. Glinda seems to think she is going to get me on a horse."
That is between you two" She chuckled "I just promised to get you appropriate riding attire."
Elphie groaned and followed Mrs. Upland into the shop.
Within 20 minutes Elphie had a black and white riding outfit complete with boots.
"We will send this back to the house with Jefet" She handed Elphie the bundle.
"I just hope it wasn't a wasted endeavor, I really do not want to get on a horse, and I've never worn pants." Elphie said
"My dear, I'm guessing that you have done many things you have no real desire to do, just to humor my Galinda"
"I can not argue with that" She smiled
They walked slowly to the salon, Elphie taking in all of the sights and asking about various places.
"Is that a museum?" she said as they passed a regal looking building.
"It certainly is- One of the finest in Oz."
"I'd like to visit it while I'm here, would that be possible? She asked excitedly
"Of course Elphaba dear, if not today- then next week"
"As Glinda would say "Goody!" " She gave her best imitation of the bubbly blonde, and they both laughed.
As they neared the salon Mrs. Upland paused to sit on a bench
"Would you mind if we sat here and waited for Galinda, I'm a bit tired"
"Certainly Mrs. Upland"
They sat and Elphie took in the surroundings, marveling at the bright storefronts and flashy signs. It was a far cry from her vendors' alley back in Shiz.
"Elphaba dear I would like to ask a favor of you. It would honor me if you would call me Gwenot, and Glinda's father Samion."
"Oh no, I couldn't I… " She was quite disconcerted
"Well, I would like you to and Galinda would love you to. But I can understand that it is a familiarity that you are unused to, so no pressure. Whenever you are able, please do."
She studied the woman carefully "I shall try" She said earnestly.
A few minutes later Glinda approached carrying a few packages. Elphie went to help her with them.
"Thanks Elphie" She resisted the urge to kiss her cheek. "Did you and my mother have fun?"
"I don't think she would classify it as fun darling. We picked up her riding habit" She chuckled
"Whether I will or will not don it is up for discussion, but at least it won't clash." She smiled
"Elphie…." Glinda started
"Girls" Her mother interrupted "You can fuss about this later, at home- now we have an appointment."
She walked off to the salon.
"What makes her think we were going to fuss." Glinda said indignantly
"She knows you my sweet" She took Glinda's arm and they followed Mrs. Upland into the salon.
Elphie just followed Glinda's led; having no idea what went on in a salon.
Before they went to check in, Glinda pulled her mother and her love into the waiting area.
"I remembered about the soaking part of the manicure," She said
"Oh my yes! Oh dear."
Elphie looked confused.
"Don't worry – When I was with daddy, I went to the apothecary and got this, she pulled out a big bottle of oil.
"What a good idea dear"
"Is someone going to explain all this to me" Elphie covered the irritation in her voice but not her eyes.
"Elphie," Glinda said calmly, hoping to soothe her " part of a manicure is soaking your hands in scented warm water. Since that is not an option, I asked our apothecary for a substitute. Remember Mr. Kwenyo explained everything to him so he could mix your oils."
Elphaba's eyes softened. "Of course" She said quietly.
"He thought this would be perfect- he called it mineral oil. Since he wasn't one hundred percent sure, he did admonish me to test it first, so hand please." She smiled hoping this was Ok.
Elphie extended her hand and Glinda put a tiny amount of the oil on the back of it and watched her friend's face carefully. Mrs. Upland was holding her breath, not certain what was going on.
"Not a tingle" Elphie said. "And it smells like…"
Glinda grinned broadly "Gillkin Rose oil. He had some and mixed this for us- we are all using it today!
"Galinda, what another marvelous idea. She kissed her daughter.
Glinda looked uncertainly at Elphie.
"A marvelous idea- I agree" She rewarded Glinda with one of her beautiful smiles.
Glinda was elated.
"Momsie, would you mind taking care of the details please"
"Of course darling" She took the bottle of scented oil and went to talk to the proprietor who was also her friend.
Elphie was feeling a little disoriented, Glinda becoming very adept at sensing this took her hand and led her to a dressing room.
"Come on we will change, and talk" She whispered
They entered a plush dressing room and Glinda put her arms around Elphie.
"Too much too fast, my love?"
"No, just unexpected I think. I feel terrible that you had to go to all of this trouble just for me."
"It was no trouble Elphaba, really. Being able to share one of my favorite experiences, with both you and my mother is a treat I never could have imagined."
"Then all is well." She smiled and Glinda leaned up and kissed her friends cheek.
"Why must we change? I thought manicures dealt with fingers."
Glinda grinned and reached for one of the vest type robes that were hanging on hooks on the wall.
"We change tops, just to keep things tidy"
She took off her blouse and but on a pink, short-sleeved robe that came to her waist, wrapped around her and tied in the front.
"See, this prevents anything from getting on your sleeves or blouse."
"Ok- but must I wear pink" She sighed.
"No there are other colors- Let's see, green- heavens no!" Elphie chuckled "Oh here is a white one, how's that?"
Elphie removed her blouse and put on the robe. Her green arms stretching out from under the short sleeves.
"Better than pink" She rolled her eyes
"Elphie, I think white looks good on you- Your skin is luminous"
"I'm sure it will provide hours of good gossip for the patrons here" She chuckled
"Feeling more in control? Are you ready to go out?" Glinda wrapped her arms around her again.
"Yes and yes" She gave her friend a squeeze
"You are trying so hard to make this Ok for me. I love you for that." Elphie said softly
"You deserve the best my love and I will do whatever it takes to see that you get it- so let's go get it!"
She took Elphie's hand and exited the dressing rooms. Her mother was sitting in one of the salon chairs, wearing a pink robe.
"Is everything alright my darlings"
"Everything is fine Mrs.…. Gwenot" Elphie said, slightly embarrassed.
Glinda squealed and beamed, bouncing up and down. Her mother nodded approvingly.
Glinda and Elphie got settled in salon chairs, when a smallish, dignified woman came over.
"Hello Miss Galinda, we've missed you around here"
"I've missed you too Pamil." She took the woman's proffered hands. "Pamil may I present my best friend, Elphaba Thropp."
"Oh.. My.. " She said slightly taken aback. " Miss Thropp it is an honor and a pleasure to meet you." She nodded in deference
Elphie looked stunned
"Likewise. Umm, If I may I inquire- you know of me?"
" Absolutely Miss Thropp. I'm a Munckinlander, and it is a thrill for me to meet the heir to Colwen Grounds."
Mrs. Upland noticing Elphaba's extreme discomfort with the attention took control of the situation.
"Pamil I apologize for not informing you in advance, but Elphaba is on vacation from her studies and was not expecting to be recognized so far away from home. If you would please keep this, all of it, to yourself, we would be most grateful."
"Of course, of course. Please enjoy your visit Miss Thropp and your day here at my salon. My best people are at your disposal."
Thank you Pamil, for your kindness and your discretion" Elphie said respectfully taking the woman's hand.
The woman, glowing with pleasure, nodded and left. Elphie leaned over to Glinda's mother.
"Thank you so much for intervening, I am terrible in situations like this." Elphie said gratefully
"Don't sell yourself short my dear, you handled yourself well." She said patting Elphie's arm "and no thanks are necessary. This is what mothers' do."
Elphie leaned back in her chair and took a deep breath. Glinda was sniffling.
"I'm so happy" She got up and kissed her mother, then kissed Elphie.
"I needed to do that" She whispered "Forgive me"
Elphie just smiled, feeling safe, loved and very confused all at the same time.
An attendant placed a bowl type thing full of oil in front of Elphie. She looked over at Glinda who smiled and put her hands into hers. Even though she knew it was oil, she still hesitated slightly then slowly immersed her hands completely in the warm oil.
"Feels heavenly doesn't it Elphie?"
Elphie wiggled her fingers in the bowl, enjoying this new sensation.
"It's nice" She agreed
They soaked in the warm oil for awhile, chatting about the symphony and picnic. When the attendants started to lightly massage her hands, she glanced over to Glinda for reassurance. Glinda winked at her and sighed. Elphie had to admit to herself that it felt good. Their nails were filed, buffed and generally fussed with.
When a tray of polish choices was presented, Glinda choose a yellow that matched her dress perfectly and Mrs. Upland chose a shade of red.
"Glinda, must I?" Elphie said looking at the rainbow of bottles in front of her. "I'll look ridiculous"
"Miss Elphaba would prefer a clear polish, if you don't mind" Mrs. Upland said.
And it was done.
"See Elphie, this is fun isn't it?"
"I have to admit it, it is" She looked at her hands, amazed.
"Girls, we have time for facials, Shall we?"
"I'm always game for a facial, but we'd better test the mask on Elphie"
"Oh good thought" Her mother replied
"Once again, I request an explanation" Her words were not angry, just curious.
"There is a mixture of sorts that is put on your face like a mask. Better safe than sorry" Glinda supplied
The attendant brought over a bowl of green mud looking stuff. Elphie extended her arm and Glinda, as before, put a small amount on Elphie's hand. As soon as the mixture was applied, she gasped and pulled away. Glinda, towel at the ready, quickly grabbed her arm and wiped off the green mixture, revealing a red blotch.
"Oh dear" Mrs. Upland said
Glinda was already rubbing some of the mineral oil on the blotch.
"It's fine- I'm fine" Elphie said embarrassed, pulling her arm away from Glinda, but smiling at her
"Ok then-No facials." Glinda chuckled; knowing Elphie would not want to make a big deal of this.
"How about pedicures?" She said wiggling her toes.
"Oh what a smashing idea Galinda" Her mother said following her daughters lead and not fussing over Elphie. "What do you think Elphaba?"
"Fine- I guess" She was still embarrassed.
Afterward, back in the dressing room, Elphie admitted that she had enjoyed the manicure and pedicure.
"It was very nice, but Glinda you and your mother could have gotten facials…"
"Elphie, don't be absurd. If you can't- I can't and If we can't my mother wouldn't want to"
"You know I'm unable to process that, right?"
She kissed her confused love lightly "Then don't try to my love. Just accept it as true."
"As if I have a choice" She grumped.
Jefet and Mrs. Upland were waiting for them in the carriage.
"I'm so excited- it's picnic time!" Glinda, had settled down in the salon, but was now back at full bubble.
"And I must say it's quite a spread this year, Cook went all out" Jefet said
"How delightful" Mrs. Upland said.
"Is this an actual picnic?" Elphie asked as they rode through town
"Oh yes, blankets on the grass and a big basket full of Cooks delectables," She said excitedly. "And if I know Popsicle, he staked out the best spot early"
The carriage stopped and Jefet helped the ladies down. Glinda's father was waiting outside the gate.
"Hello ladies" He said kissing his wife and daughter and squeezing Elphie's hand warmly.
"Popsicle, we had such fun at the salon."
"I'm delighted to hear it little Galindadoodle" She giggled at the use of that name.
"Come ladies, our feast awaits." He offered his wife his arm and Glinda took Elphie's and they entered the amphitheater.
It was a magnificent site. The orchestra was set up on the stage and there were blankets and outside chairs dotting the tiered slope leading down to it. Mr. Upland led them down to a prime spot, in the center, three rows back from the stage. There were two big blankets spread out, with three baskets on them.
"Oh what an excellent spot. Didn't I tell you Elphie?" She patted her love's back, in lieu of an excited hug.
"That you did"
They settled down on the blankets, girls on one, parents on the other. Mrs. Upland opened a basket and took out china, crystal goblets, linen napkins and silver.
"Glinda, china at a picnic?"
"It's a symphony picnic," She said as if that explained everything.
"Of course, how dense of me" she chuckled, and leaned back against the small retaining wall that separated the tiers.
Glinda did the same and they watched as her mother unloaded the next basket. Platters of cold, but gourmet finger foods and tempting sweet treats were laid out on the blankets in front of them. Out of the third basket came a bottle of wine, a jug of tea and one of cider. The feast was sumptuous.
"This is amazing" Elphie said " A long way from sandwiches by the lake"
"Yes it is, Shiz in general seems a long way off right now" She sighed contently resisting with great effort, the urge to snuggle.
Mrs. Upland passed out plates and poured drinks into goblets.
"Enjoy girls"
They complied with gusto. With her plate and glass full, Elphie leaned back against the wall once again.
The orchestra started warming up and the adorable blonde sitting next to her was a bundle of wiggles and giggles.
"Glinda please" Elphie chided gently" "you are going to spill our drinks and your plate"
"Sorry, this is just so exciting. I'll behave"
The orchestra started playing and it was magical. Elphie nibbled her food, her foot tapping to the music. When a song was played that she knew she hummed along. They ate and enjoyed the fantastic music.
At intermission, when the food was gone and the plates put away Mr. Upland poured some wine.
"Elphaba, would you care for some wine? Are you able to drink wine?"
"I am, and I'd love some- half a glass please"
He poured half a glass for her and another for Glinda "And that's all you may have little one"
"Thank you Popsicle" She said
Elphie leaned into her ear and whispered "Let's just hope they don't play the national anthem"
Glinda shot her a look and chuckled. "I would be mortified, if I could remember it clearly." She laughed.
The music started again and Elphie sipped her wine slowly humming along, thoroughly enjoying herself.
At one point Glinda actually heard her sing along softly. Only because she couldn't resist any longer Glinda slipped her hand into Elphie's. The green girl, smiling broadly, squeezed the delicate hand hat had slipped into hers, then pulled away. Glinda didn't mind however, she felt she would expire from sheer delight at seeing her love so happy.
The last song of the afternoon was the Ozian National Anthem. As they rose to sing, Elphie elbowed Glinda playfully
"Please try and keep your shirt on" She teased
Glinda's eyes flew open "Are you saying I…"
"Shhh, we are singing our anthem." Elphie sang along- her voice blending beautifully with the orchestra.
They sat back down to enjoy an encore song, Many people were singing along and Elphie did to, softly.
"Elphie that was wonderful, really" Glinda said, "I love it when you sing"
"I'm actually beginning to enjoy singing again." See the confused look on Glinda's face she said "It's an Elphie story for anther day"
Glinda simply nodded.
"Girls, the rest of the afternoon is yours. What do you wish to do?" Mr. Upland said.
"Can we just walk around and show Elphie the sights- Elphie?" Glinda said
"I like that idea."
While they were talking Jefet appeared and gathered up the picnic things.
"Jefet please pick us up as we arranged" Mr. Upland said winking.
"Samion, you have something up your sleeve"
"I do dearest, but I will tell you later- I fear for Galinda's health and our safety if I tell this early" He kissed his daughter
"I'm not that bad" Glinda stated firmly
"Yes, You really are. Always have been" Came the choral response and chuckles from the people she adored.
They walked out of the amphitheater and slowly strolled down the street. They went into stores, picked up little things from vendor carts and enjoyed watching the street musicians and comedians. There was an art show down one street that Glinda and Elphaba enjoyed immensely. Elphie was quite taken with a painting of a grassy meadow.
"Let's get it for our room" Glinda said "I'm sure my father can arrange for it to be delivered to the Manor."
Elphie was not comfortable with buying things like this for herself, but there was something about that painting that captivated her.
"Why not?"
She reached into her pocket for her money pouch and purchased the painting and Glinda's father made arrangements for it to be taken to the house.
"Congratulations Elphie, you are now an art collector"
She smiled, feeling proud of herself for allowing this indulgence.
They continued their slow stroll around downtown Frottica. Glinda spotted a small shop across the street and squealed.
"Momsie, they re-opened the magic supply store."
"Yes, a few months ago. Elphaba, The shop was closed awhile back when two people, unbeknownst to each other, chanted contrasting spells, causing the entire inventory to disappear."
"No" Elphie said, very amused
"It has taken them this long to figure out how to do a reversal"
"Come on Elphie, we will get you a wand." She said forgetting herself and grabbing her hand.
"What?… Wait a minute," She said following the determined girl across the street, her parents following behind.
"Glinda, stop. I have no need of a wand"
"Sure you do Elphie, everyone with magic talent needs one."
Her parents had caught up with them
"Glinda- I know what you are doing and I have no intention of taking a sorcery class with you next term"
"I know that Elphie" She smiled sweetly "This is so you can continue to help me with my homework. Two wands are better than one!"
"Elphaba, I was not aware that you possessed sorcery skills." Mrs. Upland said surprised
"I don't, not really" Elphie was exasperated
"Don't listen to her Momsie, she has helped me study and prepare all term and on more than one occasion has reversed one of my chants gone awry." Glinda said with pride. "Please Elphie, It's just a wand."
"It's not just a wand, and you know it." She sighed and looked at her friend. "I will relent, only if you drop the subject of my alleged skills."
"Deal!" Glinda said dragging her into the shop.
Glinda's mother was highly intrigued by this new revelation. She knew it took some talent to reverse another person's magic. She added this bit of information to her growing knowledge of her daughter's enigmatic best friend.
Mrs. Upland and Glinda picked out some spell books while Elphie unhappily selected a wand.
"Why did you push her like that Galinda?" Her mother asked. "She does not seem very happy"
"She is Ok, mom really. She will grump for awhile, but she is not angry because she knows I'm right about her innate talent." Glinda smiled glancing over at her friend paying for her wand.
Elphie handed her the package. "Happy now?"
"Yes I am, Thank you"
Elphie went outside to wait for them to finish making their purchases. She wasn't angry, she just wished she understood why this was so important to Glinda. She smiled. She was indeed wrapped around Princess Galinda's finger for better or worse.
"Am I forgiven?" Glinda said startling Elphie out of the thoughts
"Not quite yet" Elphie said offering the smiling blonde her arm
"Ladies, if you have no more shopping, or arguing to do" He chuckled "We need to catch a cab, I made dinner reservations at Galinda's favorite restaurant."
"Ilono's!" Glinda squeaked, the wand all but forgotten "Elphie you will love Ilono's"
Mr. Upland hailed a cab and assisted everyone in, and gave the driver instructions
"Galinda, I know how much you love Ilono's so to continue celebrating your and Elphaba's visit I pulled some strings and got reservations for dinner on the terrace."
Glinda was truly overwhelmed.
"A sunset dinner on Ilono's terrace, Oh Daddy" She buried her face in her father's shoulder.
"Elphaba" Glinda's mother whispered. This is a special place for the two of them, and he really did have to call in favors to get terrace reservations on such short notice. I hope you are not irritated with her about the wand, because being able to share this with you will give her great joy."
Elphie smiled "I am not irritated- the sorcery thing is an ongoing annoyance between us and not all that serious."
"I'm very relieved." The older woman sighed
Glinda wiped tears from her eyes, "Elphie, this is the most magnificent sight in all of Oz, you will love it"
"I'm sure I will Glinda, I can't wait" Her eyes were warm and loving
They were greeted with gusto at Ilono's. It was obvious that Mr. Upland and his daughter were favorites. Settled at the best table on the terrace, Elphie leaned over and whispered in Glinda's ear
"You are forgiven and I love you." Glinda beamed.
The terrace overlooked a massive lake surrounded by mature Quoxwood trees. Everything about the evening was perfect- the food, the company and the sunset. Elphie marveled at the ease with which her and her parent's talked about anything and everything, and even more at her ability to join in on the conversation.
A string quartet was playing and Mr. upland went to request a song. It happened to be one of Elphie's favorites.
"Galinda told me on the cab ride over" He said smiling
This time Elphie had to restrain herself from hugging her love. "Glinda, what a nice treat."
She ginned broadly, then yawned. "Sorry" she said sheepishly
"Someone's energy is finally waning" Her mother laughed
Elphie giggled "Now at least I know it is possible"
"Jefet will be here very soon, are you all ready to go home?"
Glinda yawned again "I hate to see this day end. I am the luckiest girl in all of Oz"
"And also the sleepiest, so it appears" Elphie said.
They walked out to a waiting Jefet. Glinda sat with her father, resting her head on his shoulder. Within five minutes she was asleep.
"When she falls, she falls hard and fast" Her mother chuckled "She always has- in a way it's comforting to know that some things never change"
Elphie spent the rest of the ride home watching the girl she adored sleeping peacefully against her father
She was so happy at that moment she thought she might burst, or implode, or whatever happened with extreme happiness. When they arrived at home Glinda's mother tried unsuccessfully to wake her daughter. The sleeping girl simply smiled mumbled and snuggled closer to her father.
"Don't bother Gwenot, I'll carry her up. I haven't had the opportunity to do that in years."
"If you insist Samion" She smiled at the sight of her beloved husband carrying their equally beloved daughter up the stairs.
Elphie followed behind carrying their packages. Glinda was placed in her bed, without waking
"Will you assist me please Elphaba"
Together they removed Glinda's shoes and managed to get her into a nightdress, with her stirring only slightly.
"Elphie?" She murmured
"Shhhh I'm here. Go back to sleep." She said quietly
"I love you Elphie, we had fun today didn't we?" She said half asleep
"We did, and we shall talk tomorrow, now sleep my sweet" She flushed realizing that she had used a term of affection in the presence of Mrs. Upland.
"You've obviously dealt with her semi-awake states before" She stated simply leading her to the door.
"She has nightmares every now and then where she doesn't wake fully, so yes I guess I have"
"Goodnight Elphaba dear, sleep well." She said making no more of it.
"You as well, Good night M… Gwenot" She flushed again
"Thank you my dear" She said obviously pleased.
Elphie got ready for bed re-running this wonderful day in her head. She crawled into her bed thinking as bad as yesterday was, today had been that much better.
She feel asleep smiling and happy.