Upon dismounting her motorcycle and removing her helmet, Yang happily strolled toward the small store where she bought her craft beer, excited to get more after she realized a couple days ago that Vernal had taken her last one during her little visit, and then only drank half of it. Gods, it felt like such a waste to dump it, but she was not about to drink from the same can as that woman. Yang already spent enough on that stuff as it was, since it was more expensive. Though she never really paid any attention the higher price, considering it was always better than the normal, larger brands. Plus, it was not like she could not afford it. So it was fine.
Grabbing a basket from inside the front entrance, Yang made her way to the isle that held her favourite beer, but unfortunately, as she arrived at its usual place, she caught a glimpse of the price tag attached to the shelf underneath it.
Holy shit, fifty lien per case?
Was that really how much she spent on this brand nearly every week? That was... admittedly a lot for just a single case of beer, even if it was her absolute favourite... Especially now that Yang had been buying for two for the past week and a half, which meant her budget was being stretched a bit thinner than usual... Man... Fifty lien per week... That was two hundred lien per month, at minimum... And that was only from one type of alcohol... not even counting all the other stuff she bought, which... Gods... she really did spend a lot on alcohol... So much...
Then a realization hit her like a truck.
Am I... an alcoholic?
The mere internal question caused Yang to freeze, nearly causing her to drop the basket in her hand, and leaving her to only stare at the shelves of beer in front of her, rethinking her entire adult life. How many times... had she used alcohol to feel better? Or... to run away from her depression? Or to just... distract herself from negative thoughts? Gods... how many times had she made a damn fool out of herself? How could she have ever have blamed her own mother for suffering from an addiction? Something that had almost cost her what little chance she had with her daughter...
Was... Raven seeing it happening before her to Yang? Was that... what sparked their argument? Did Ruby talk to her? Was she truly that far gone? Pyrrha was too kind to speak so bluntly... but Weiss... had shown little restraint. She did not hold back for her sake, and was honest with her... explaining how her own mother was heavily plagued by alcoholism, and... how she was afraid for Yang. After finding the blonde drunk, staring at pictures of her ex-friend at three in the morning, Weiss had recommended that it would be a good idea for her to see someone about her... less-than-healthy drinking habits...
So... Maybe I should finally get around to doing that... But Yang needed someone to talk to first... Unfortunately, Ruby and Pyrrha were at work... and she did not want to bother her mom with this... nor Cinder... Although... there was one person that she could contact...
Looking around, remembering where she was, Yang immediately turned on a heel, and made her way back to the entrance of the store, where she placed the basket she was holding back on the pile, and stepped outside. She then reached into her pocket and pulled out her scroll, switching the device on and searching through her contacts until she found a certain name, and selected it to call. What followed was a short set of rings, then a click, signalling that it had been answered.
"Hey, what up, Xiao Long? Long time no talk." Came the voice of Coco Adel, which was... admittedly rather soothing in her current time of... well, panic.
Even so, Yang could not help but smile at the greeting as she sat down on a wooden bench outside of the beer store. It's only been like, a week and a half. Unfortunately, that smile did not last more than a few seconds, as she was quickly reminded of why she made this call in the first place. "Coco, I think... I-I'm... an alcoholic..."
There was a pause, and Coco let out a small sigh. "Oh gee, right into it, are we?"
Yang nodded by instinct, even though her friend was unable to see it. "Yeah, I just... was thinking about some things... realized some stuff, and I just... I don't..." Then she heavily sighed. "I think I need to see someone about it..."
"Well hey, Little Red's taking me to a shrink tomorrow." Coco informed. "Uh... Goodwitch... or somethin'... Apparently your mom says she's legit."
Yang furrowed her brow at the mention of the therapist. That name... sounded so familiar... but where... did she know it from? Wait a minute. "Goodwitch... Like, Glynda Goodwitch?"
Coco hummed in response. "I think so, know her?"
"Not personally, but she's the one that Cin's been goin' to for her therapy..." Yang answered, thinking back to the several times that the older woman had told her about her sessions, which included a few where she was taken to an archery range, which was honestly pretty cool.
"Cin as in... Cinder Fall?" Coco wondered, sounding a bit confused.
Yang blinked, not expecting the question. "Huh? Oh, yeah."
"Just checkin'." Coco commented.
Yang had almost forgotten that not everyone knew that Cinder went by Cin with her and her mother. "Well, she wasn't a huge fan of opening up so much in the beginning, but I never heard any complaints about Glynda herself..."
Coco let out a small chuckle. "Guess I'll find out when Little Red drags me there tomorrow, huh?"
"Yeah..." Yang mumbled, then pausing, still wondering something about the therapist that her friend was going to see... "You think... I should drop by too? Y'know, see if there's anything she can do for me?"
"I think..." Coco began, before the blonde heard a sigh through the call. "I think we both need a lot of help, yeah."
Yang only sighed as well, knowing just how accurate that fact was. "Me too..."
Then came another pause, with both women simply quietly sitting on either end of the scroll call, neither really knowing how to continue. "Hey... Yang?"
"What's up?"
Coco was silent for a moment. "I uh... I miss you."
While rather surprised to hear that sentiment so clearly, Yang could not help but smile. "I miss you too, Coco." She responded, through happiness, as well as sadness, which was both in the way of missing not only her sadly short-lived partnership, but her friendship. Even before the two decided to properly become a couple, they had become fast friends from that 'date' that Ruby set them up on. "You wanna... hang out again sometime? Maybe tomorrow after your session?"
A hum was heard through the call. "Y'know, if it's all the same to you, let's do it the next day to be safe, 'cause I dunno if I'll be up for chillin' after talkin' to a shrink."
Yang immediately, brightly smiled at the idea of hanging out with her friend again. "Sounds like a plan, girl."
And with that, after the pair bid one another farewell, with a promise of hanging out soon, Yang was off to Glynda Goodwitch's therapy office, who's address had been provided by the brunette before they hung up. It was a fairly short ride - she actually passed by the bar on the way - as within about ten minutes, she arrived at a plaza that held the building she was looking for: Goodwitch Therapy. As she pulled Bumblebee into an empty parking space and turned it off, Yang looked up at the large sign board that sat above the front door and windows, a bit... scared of what she might be told if she really went in there and spoke to the therapist inside. She did not want to be told that she was an alcoholic, that she had let her drinking habits get the better of her, that... that she was a failure...
But if it's true, you need to hear it.
Taking a deep breath, Yang dismounted her motorbike, slowly made her way toward the building, and hesitantly entered, where she was met by a... well, rather average waiting room. The tones were soft, there was plenty of natural light, uplifting posters on the walls... The chairs were completely empty, and a television that played the news was perched up on the wall, while a black-haired... No wait, dark-grey-haired secretary sat behind a large hole in the innermost wall, which practically gave the woman her own office next to a hallway that led farther into the building. Overall, it was... pleasant.
Seeing the blonde walk through the front door, the secretary smiled at her. "Hello there, what can I do for you today?"
Awkwardly approaching the secretary's 'office', Yang cleared her throat. "I uh, I'm Yang... Yang Xiao Long... and... I was just wondering if Glynda Goodwitch had some time to see me..."
Moving over to her computer, the secretary typed a few things into it. "Well, Miss. Goodwitch doesn't currently have any appointments for the next few hours... Would you like me to see if she can fit you in now?"
After a moment, Yang nodded slightly. "Yeah... Thank you..."
Smiling once more, the secretary stood up from her chair, and walked through the doorway that led into the same hallway that she saw before, which left the blonde to only stand there waiting. Thankfully, she did not have to wait for long, as soon enough, the woman returned to her seat, which confused her at first, until a taller, older, extremely attractive blonde woman walked around the corner of the hallway, clad in a white dress shirt and a high-waste pencil skirt - as well as a pair of thin ovular glasses. Fuck, this was Glynda Goodwitch, Cinder's therapist? How in the hell was she even able to focus on talking about her issues when this woman was one who was listening? Upon laying her eyes upon the younger woman, Glynda offered a beautiful warm smile, gesturing back toward the hallway, which only caused her to swallow.
"Hello, Yang. Come on in."
Leave it to Nora to make a rather uneventful afternoon at the bar more interesting... in typical Nora fashion.
It began with simple chatting with Yang as the redhead sat at the bar counter, happily sipping on her first Strawberry Sunrise. They spoke about their days, about how Weiss was doing, and the... unfortunate topic of Vernal's... lengthy absence, thankfully moving on to more pleasant topics after Nora expressed concern over it, saying that she liked and missed their coworker... Even though she had not actually seen her working at the bar yet. Of course, having witnessed that woman's post-breakup grief first-hand a few days ago, which itself was nowhere near as bad as the first time she and Raven visited her apartment, Cinder was not exactly thrilled to be hearing about it at work, so was glad that they did not linger very long.
Then came Nora's second Strawberry Sunrise, and with it, the flirting began.
Unfortunately for Yang, she had let slip about her recent breakup with Coco when asked about the relationship. So for the redhead, that meant she was no longer off limits, which in turn, caused her flirting level to go from a four to a solid eight. Not subtle in the absolute slightest, yet still not quite at typical Nora levels. Although, the latter would have been extremely entertaining to watch, if they were not currently at work. Even so, Cinder could not help but grin at the two's interactions, as they were... admittedly quite similar in personality. Loud and proud. She almost had to laugh. Perhaps they could even make a good, yet exceptionally chaotic couple... Far more than she was with Coco...
It was... honestly a bit odd. seeing Nora speak with someone else so... naturally... for lack of a better term, reminding Cinder that she was just a normal girl like any other, but... unfortunately she was stuck in a dangerous line of work. Yet even still, she was always able to keep her smile. It really made Cinder think. If the redhead could manage to do everything that she already did as a prostitute, then... the older woman could only imagine what that girl could accomplish with a proper job... a proper career... Unfortunately, up until now, she had never really gone past merely thinking about the idea, as... she was still reliant on her friend, and... was worried that if Nora got a better job... she would also find a nicer place to live, and... leave her alone in that shithole of an apartment...
But no longer.
Cinder had a job, she was living in a better apartment, and she was dating the drop-dead gorgeous woman that she had been pining over for months... She had a better life... It was about time for her friend to get the same chance.
And she knew just who to speak to about that.
Excusing herself from the... interesting conversation that Nora and Yang were having about cheese, Cinder made her way through the back room door, and knocked on the office door.
"Come on in, Cin." Came Raven's voice from within.
Oh, yes, she likely saw me walking back here through the one-way mirror. Cinder could not help but grin slightly. Perhaps she was staring at my rear again, Opening up the door and entering the office, she closed it behind her and approached her friend, who was currently typing something on her new computer. No glaring at the screen, no annoyed expression on her face... That birthday present really was working wonders. Good job, Rose. "Hey, Rave, can we talk about something?"
Finishing her typing, Raven sat back in her chair and turned to face the younger woman, grinning. "That depends, is it about how good that ass looks in those jeans?"
Letting out a soft chuckle at the compliment, Cinder shook her head. I knew it. "Sadly no." She answered, before her smile faded a bit. "It's about... Nora."
Raven only furrowed her brow. "What about her?"
Briefly glancing out of the one-way mirror, seeing her two friends smile and laugh together, Cinder looked backed to the older woman. "Ever since I moved into that apartment building, she was there for me. Always looking out for my well-being, making sure I ate enough on a daily basis, paying for things that I was hesitant about buying... Nora gave me the one thing that I truly needed... a friend. I'm only alive because of that girl, because she gave me the opportunity to live again... and now I want to return the favour, starting with getting her a new job."
Leaning back in her chair, Raven crossed her arms, remaining quiet for a few moments, seemingly in thought. "Well, I'd offer to have her work here, but we're pretty full on staff already, 'specially for the amount of people we usually get. Even if I had her fill in for Vernal until she comes back, I'd probably have to let her go when she does, 'cause there wouldn't be enough shifts for everyone to work full time."
While it was unfortunate to hear that Nora was unable to work at the bar with them, Cinder did have another idea that the redhead had mentioned to her several times in the past. "What about... Do you happen to know anyone who does charity work?"
Raven looked off to the side for a moment, and heavily sighed, her expression shifting to one of... annoyance? "Unfortunately, yeah, I do." She near-grumbled, reaching into her pocket and pulling out her scroll. "Give me a sec." She requested, turning on the device and tapping a few times, before bringing it up to her ear, the quiet sound of ringing emanating from it. A few moments later, there was a feint click. "Hey... Sum..." Raven sighed again. Oh, it was Summer Rose. "Could I get your help with somethin'?" Then a pause. "I uh, I've got a friend of Cin's here that's interested in charity work, you still workin' at that place in East Vale?" Another pause. "Yeah, uhuh... Well you think you could take a few minutes to talk to her? See if there's somethin' for her to do over there?" Then Raven furrowed her brow, seemingly confused as to what Summer was telling her.
"Wha- No- You don't need to-" She stammered, before letting out a frustrated sigh. "Fine, fine, fine, just come through the back. Yeah, see you in a bit." Raven went to end the call, but even the younger woman heard Summer stop her from the other side of the call, only causing her to sigh once again. "Love you too." She quickly added before hanging up. "Okay, well, guess Summer's on her way over to talk to Nora. Turns out she had a day off today."
Cinder merely rolled her eye at the idea of that unbearably cheerful woman dropping by. "I suppose I will have to go fetch Nora when she gets here then."
Putting her scroll onto the desk in front of her, Raven leaned back, running a hand through her jet black locks. "Probably, but you've gotta get over here and give mama a kiss first."
Cinder could not help but chuckle at the request, as even now, she had a difficult time believing that their relationship was truly real. So, she just shrugged. "If you insist." She accepted, unable to stop herself from grinning as she approached the older woman's desk, and leaned forward to meet her in a soft, brief kiss. The pair grinned like idiots at each other upon separating, so glad that they could finally do things like that. Unfortunately, they would have to deal with the perfectly perfect woman that was Summer Rose when she arrived, and soon enough, she was pulling her car into the parking lot behind the bar. Goodie.
Hearing a knock upon the office's door, Raven let out one more sigh, and pulled herself up out of her chair and made her way across the room, as if knowing that a simple come in would not suffice. Upon opening the door, she was met with the brightly smiling face of Summer Rose, who... surprisingly did not wrap the other woman in a hug. Though that was likely due to the fact that she knew she was not there for chit chat.
"Hello, Rae. Cinder."
Raven attempted to offer a tired smile, while Cinder raised a hand to awkwardly wave. "Hey, Sum... You mind takin' a seat in the back room? I'll have Cin go grab her friend."
Looking over at the younger woman with a curious gaze, probably regarding how her friend called her Cin, Summer nodded. "Of course." She accepted, turning around to head into the break room, leaving the other two in the bar's office.
"Okay, I'll uh, go wait with her... I guess, while you go pry Nora away from my daughter." Raven awkwardly added, before following Summer into the back room.
Cinder almost had to chuckle, knowing that prying the redhead away from anyone was always a daunting task, especially when she was either flirting with them, or had a few drinks in her, which in this case, both were true. This is sure to be fun. Cinder thought to herself, exiting the office, closing the door behind her, and walking through the adjacent door that led to the main area of the bar, finding... Oh great. While her friend and coworker were practically still in the same spots as when the older woman left - with the former sitting at the counter, and the latter standing behind it - they were now... doing something a little... different.
Nora was currently leaning across the wooden surface, a sly grin spread across her face, both hands running deep through Yang's hair... massaging her head. Apparently she was doing a good job at it too, because given her... expression of casual bliss, the blonde looked like she was thoroughly enjoying it. Well, this was certainly not something that Cinder expected to see today, but gods was it interesting to watch. She must really be dialing up the flirting.
"Gods, I only wish I had hair like yours..." Nora purred, working her fingers through the other woman's wild blonde mane. "So soft... silky smooth... long and wavy..." Then her turquoise eyes wandered downward. "And it's attached to such a sweet, funny, gorgeous gal like you... Aren't you just the complete package..."
As much as Cinder wanted to continue watching this... unique interaction, she knew that Summer and Raven were waiting in the back room, so unfortunately, she was going to have to break those two up... before they inevitably moved to the bar's back closet. Okay, perhaps they would not actually do that... probably... Although, she would not put it past Nora to be trying to seduce and bed Yang in a single day. After all, she got Cinder of all people into bed, so she likely thought that the blonde was walk in the park, so to speak.
Bringing a hang up to her mouth, Cinder cleared her throat, causing the redhead to cease her massaging and turn toward the older woman, and Yang to look over in slight surprise. "Apologies for... interrupting, but Nora, there is someone in the back room that would like to speak with you."
Finally releasing the other woman's head, Nora furrowed her brow. "They wanna talk to me?" To which Cinder merely nodded. She opened her mouth to respond, but the woman behind the counter beat her to it.
"Shit, you're good at that!" Yang praised, cheeks a bit red, reaching up to run her hands through her hair, clearly impressed from the redhead's technique, and prompting her to look back over.
"What can I say? I was blessed with magic fingers." Nora grinned, emphasizing it by raising and wiggling the digits in question. Then her grin grew slier. "And they've got more uses than that."
Oh my gods, she might actually be trying to seduce her. "Alright, come on, Nora, you have someone waiting for you." Cinder reminded, partially interjecting as she lifted up the bar hatch, a bit disappointed that she had to interrupt... whatever the hell this was. "You two can play later."
"Okay, Cindy!" Nora beamed, downing the small remainder of her drink, hopping off the bar stool, walking around the counter and ducking under her friend's arm. Then she briefly looked back. "See ya later, blondie." She smirked, winking at Yang before passing the older woman to saunter into the back area, swinging her hips as she did, and leaving the blonde standing there behind the bar, flustered from likely realizing what had just happened.
Cinder could only furrow her brow as she followed the redhead through the door, knowing for a fact that she had been to the bar a number of times, spoken to Yang almost every single visit, and had never once called her blondie. Gods, she really must be laying on the charm, as she liked to say. Though Cinder had to admit, those two could possibly work as a pair... even if they would be probably more chaotic than two children on sugar highs. Of course that would depend on if Yang could even keep up with Nora as a partner. Not just in in the day-to-day sense, but in the bedroom, since that girl was... a lot to handle in that area when she fully let loose, and that always left Cinder absolutely exhausted when they were done. Yet every time, Nora was ready to go again, as if she had a bottomless pool of stamina. Though, unlike herself, the blonde was a relatively fit individual, so perhaps she would do a better job with that...
Perhaps I should ask Yang-
Or you can stop thinking about your friends having sex.
I suppose that also works.
As Cinder led Nora around the corner to the break room, they found Summer sitting at the wooden table in the center, patiently waiting while Raven leaned against the lockers off to the side, arms crossed, gaze... idle. Upon seeing the former, the redhead actually gasped, her eyes wide with shock, as if looking at an angel.
"Summer?! I- How- Why... Hi!"
The woman in question offered a warm smile as she stood from her chair, not at all appearing surprised to be seeing the younger woman. "Hello, Nora. It's nice to see you again after so long." She greeted, walking over and opening her arms, which Nora immediately accepted, wrapping her in a brief, shocked hug. "Would you like to sit down?" Summer wondered upon stepping back, gesturing to the chair across the one she had been sitting in
Nora's mouth hung open for a few moments. "O-Oh, oh yeah!" She quickly agreed, pulling out the chair and taking a seat, remaining there briefly. "So uh, you wanted to talk to me about somethin'?"
Summer nodded, returning to her own chair. "Well, I heard from Rae that a friend of Cinder's was interested in working in charity, so I decided to drop by and see for myself, but I never expected it to be you, Nora. I always wondered what had become of you after you stopped working with us..."
Letting out a nervous chuckle, Nora ran a hand through her hair. "Yeah, I uh, couldn't really afford to really dedicate myself to charity anymore, 'cause... y'know, rent and... sporadic work hours and stuff..."
Summer only hummed in response. "I see. That is quite unfortunate to hear, though I am glad to hear that you took care of yourself." She smiled. "But if you could afford to return, would you?"
"Of course! No question!" Nora beamed. "Gettin' to work with you all was some of the most fun I've ever had!"
Summer was quiet for a few moments, but soon offered another warm smile. "Nora, I am always searching for people who want to make a true living out of this occupation. So, would you mind answering a few questions for me?" To which the redhead appeared shocked for a second, before merely but happily nodding with a bright smile of her own. "Good. To begin, are you a native resident to Vale? Or did you move here from elsewhere?" Summer inquired, bringing her hands up to fold on the table.
"I moved here from East Mistral about five... ish years ago with my boyfriend, Ren, but uh... then he was called to Atlas for work a few years later, and I couldn't go with him... So here I am." Nora answered. her expression falling as she spoke of her ex.
Summer's expression shifted to one of concern. "I see, I'm sorry to hear that, Nora. Do you have any family here?"
Nora shook her head. "Maybe back in Mistral, but I dunno. Never knew my parents, or grandparents, or... anyone really. Only family I ever had was Ren, but... but he's gone now..." She explained, before trailing off, looking back at Cinder, and smiling. "Then I met Cindy, and... I had some family again..."
Summer offered a smile in return, briefly glancing over at Cinder. "Sometimes those who we will consider family come from the most surprising of places. Isn't that right, Rae?"
Raven just rolled her eyes. "Yeah yeah yeah, you saved my ass in high school and with Yang. No need to rub it in."
Summer let out a chuckle, glancing over at her friend. "I did not mean it in that way, dear." She assured, before turning back to face the redhead in front of her. "We met in some rather unique circumstances, with Rae being a tad reluctant about befriending me, but I eventually got through to her-
"Only 'cause you never left me alone until I agreed to be friends with your midget ass." Raven interrupted.
Summer looked over at her friend again. "And did you regret your decision to let me into your life?"
Raven was silent. "No..."
Summer merely offered a warm smile. "I didn't think so." She noted, before facing forward once more. "Anyways, thirty years later, I'm proud to call her a member of my family." She finished. "Now, what's your education history?"
Nora merely shrugged. "I mean, finished high school, but only 'cause Ren was there to get me through it. I thought about college, but... I probably would've failed on my own... wastin' all the money he was willing to spend on me..." Then she shook her head a couple times. "I couldn't have done that to him..."
Summer remained quiet for a few moments. "I too understand the struggles of paying for post-secondary schooling, Nora. I myself refused help from anyone, including my parents, instead finding a job that helped me pay for it myself. Except I didn't get to go until much later." Then she let out a soft chuckle. "But I suppose you're not interested in hearing about my life story. Though it does help me segway into my last question. Can you tell me a bit about your work history? Not counting the time we spent together last year of course."
"Well, I've had a bunch of different jobs over the years, but nothin's really stuck." Nora explained. "I've worked at fast-food joints, a grocery store, a few stores in this mall in West Vale, uh... a warehouse, a movie theatre, and I even tried gettin' into babysitting, which... I kinda wish I could've continued, but uh, turns out parents don't like it when the woman who's watchin' their kids can't control her potty mouth."
Summer chuckled again. "I can certainly attest to that, as I would have rather had my daughters not learn to swear so early in life." She commented. "What about your current occupation?"
The smile that was spread across Nora's face from talking about babysitting vanished upon hearing that question. "I uh, it's not really important... 'cause... nothin' about it really helps with charity work, so... y'know, not really worth mentionin'..."
Cinder knew exactly what that meant. You don't want to disappoint her...
Summer leaned forward, seemingly knowing that something was wrong, expression growing more stern, yet eyes still remaining soft. "Nora, dear, I can't help you if I don't know you. I promise that I will not judge whatever it is you do, so please, tell me."
Staying quiet for a brief time, Nora eventually let out a sigh, almost hanging her head in shame, and nodding a bit. "Okay... I... I'm a hooker." She reluctantly answered. "I've... never really been good at anything, but I really wanna work in charity. I fell into... p-prostitution 'cause it paid well, and... honestly, it's fun most of the time. I get to meet interesting people and make money at the same time... Now I've been here too long, and... if I tried to work somewhere else, I'd probably be arrested..." Then she looked at the older woman with pleading eyes. "But I'll take anything and do whatever you ask! I dunno what'll fit, but my passion's always been charity work. I just... wanna help, y'know?
After several moments of what was probably consideration, Summer nodded. "Well, I now help run a few homeless shelter soup kitchens around Vale, but I mainly focus on one in East Vale. So, if you're interested, I know who to get in touch with about perhaps getting you a job."
Nora's jaw dropped open as soon as she realized what was just said. Cinder almost had to laugh. That girl's eyes looked like they were about to shoot out of their sockets. "I... Are you... serious?"
Summer offered a bright smile. "I am. On one condition of course."
Nora appeared as if she could not believe what she was hearing. "Anything!"
Leaning back in her chair, Summer looked over at her friend, who had barely moved through the entire conversation. "Rae only has to say please."
Raven just furrowed her brow at the request. "Why do I have to say please for the shit she's getting?" Summer merely raised her brow in response, her expression shifting to one that partially-resembled her daughter's puppy-dog face, as if she was attempting to convince her with a mere look. Which... apparently worked, as Raven let out a heavy sigh. "Fine, fine. please."
Summer raised a hand to position behind one of her ears. "Please... what?"
Cinder narrowed her eye at the addition. Smug bitch.
Raven only groaned. "Please give Nora the job, She's a good kid, and would do you well."
"Aw, thanks, Raven!" Nora immediately beamed.
Standing from her chair, Summer approached her friend, and wrapped her arms around her midsection, pulling her close, which she eventually reciprocated. After a few moments, she released her, propped herself up on her tip toes, and planted a soft kiss on her cheek, leaving Raven shocked, and a bit flustered, which... admittedly was adorable. Though at the same time, Cinder was not exactly thrilled to see another woman performing such an action on her girlfriend... for lack of a better term. "Thank you, Rae." She almost-whispered, before spinning around and walking over to the redhead with a smile. "Would you like to join me out for lunch, Nora?"
Nora just blinked, seemingly taking a moment to process the question... as well as the rest of the situation. "Absolutely!" She burst, practically jumping up from her chair.
Briefly turning to her friend, Summer actually... bowed her head a little. "Thank you for introducing us, Rae, and it was nice to see you, Cinder. Have a wonderful afternoon." She smiled, beginning to lead the younger woman toward the back door.
"Yeah, no problem." Raven simply responded, while Cinder merely nodded.
"Tell Yang it was great seeing her again!" Nora added as the older woman opened the door for them, before her bright smile shifted into much more of a sly smirk. Oh boy. "And she can gimme a call anytime. She's got my digits."
Oh I see. You slipped her your number while I wasn't looking. Now Cinder was beginning to get curious about how all of... that could potentially turn out. Gods, those two would be a force to be reckoned with together. "I'll be sure to, Nora. Have a good time."
"I will!" Nora grinned as she followed Summer out the back door, which closed behind them on its own, leaving the other two alone in the break room of the bar. The pair merely stared at the exit for a brief time, with Raven especially more lost in her gaze. It made Cinder want to say something, even if only to snap her out of it.
So, she let out a hum. "I suppose Summer should count herself lucky that she's already married, else Nora might have tried to bed her, like she was seducing Yang earlier."
Raven just let out a chuckle, shaking her head. "I'm more worried I'll gain another niece."
Cinder opened her mouth to respond, but quickly realized that she did not actually know what her friend meant, taking a few moments before properly understanding it. Oh, she meant that Summer would adopt her. It caused her to chuckle as well. "At least it would be a niece you haven't slept with."
Raven looked over at the younger woman with a curious gaze, smirking as her brow raised. "So you did sleep with her."
Cinder only rolled her eye. "Oh shut up."
Raven's smirk only grew slier, as she stood up straight. "Who was the top? Did ya use any toys? Does the carpet match the drapes?"
Cinder merely smirked right back, stepping closer to her friend. "I guess you'll have to ask her yourself."
"Yeah, sure." Raven huffed, before she paused, her smirk fading, and her expression shifting from sly, first to slightly puzzled, then to one of... extreme confusion. Was she perhaps realizing what Cinder had mentioned after the other two left? That would be rather amusing, given how she had not noticed it when it was first said. Though, judging from the look that Raven gave upon turning to face her, that was exactly what she was thinking about.
"Wait... did you say Nora was tryin' to fuck my daughter?"
Waiting in the therapist reception was not unlike a hospital visit... unfortunately. Though the less stark, light-toned walls did reduce the subtle anxiety she felt, Pyrrha was still keenly aware of the psychological surgery that was still ongoing just down the hall.
Ever since actually agreeing to go to therapy, Coco had been... remarkably quieter in her day-to-day life. It was admittedly a bit concerning at first, but Pyrrha soon understood what was happening. Her friend was finally entering the acceptance stage of grief, and she knew that she was going to be confronting it directly. So it was like... the calm before the storm. There was no bite left in her... At least not genuinely. Of course, whenever Coco would go spend time hanging out with Yang, her normal persona came out, with the usual jokes and goofiness that came with it, but once she returned to the Nikos apartment, it was back to just... going through the motions.
Now, she was finally seeing someone.
Coco was extremely nervous at first, but after some reassurance from both Pyrrha and Doctor Glynda Goodwitch, she eventually followed the latter down the hall and into a room at the end, leaving the redhead to simply wait, only hoping that the therapist would be able to help her friend... even if only a little.
After about an hour and a half, the door at the end of the hall opened up, and Glynda emerged before turning back toward the open doorway. A few moments later, Coco slowly came out, appearing much more downcast, more... raw than she did before the session. It was as if she was a completely different person, taking small, timid steps, red-ringed eyes almost glued to the floor... Oh, Coco... Glynda then led the brunette down the hall, arm gently on her back, until they reached Pyrrha, who stood up to meet them, and looked between the two.
"How... did things go?" Pyrrha hesitantly inquired.
Briefly glancing over at the brunette, Glynda actually smiled, which certainly eased the redhead's nerves a bit. "I believe Ms. Adel has made some excellent progress, and I look forward to seeing her again next week."
Pyrrha managed a smile in return. "Thank you, Dr. Goodwitch."
Glynda merely shook her head. "Please, call me Glynda."
Pyrrha nodded. "Of course, Glynda."
The therapist then turned to her patient. "Thank you for coming, Coco, and both of you, have a wonderful day."
Pyrrha bowed her head. "Thank you, Glynda. You too." She offered, to which she received one last smile before the older woman headed back down the hallway and into the second room that lied near the end of the hallway, likely her office. She then looked down at her friend. "Coco? Are you alright?"
Rather than verbally responding, Coco just stepped forward and wrapped her arms around the redhead's midsection, and pulled herself close, burying her face in her chest, and taking a deep, shaky breath, tightening her grip. "I'm sorry..."
Pyrrha was stunned for a moment, before she reciprocated the embrace, raising one hand to cradle her head. "Shh... It's okay, sweetheart... You have nothing to be sorry for..." She soothed, gently rubbing her hair. "Is there anything that you would like to do now?"
Coco was silent for a time, simply holding onto her. "Could... we get something to eat?"
Pyrrha nodded, even though it went unseen. "Of course." She softly agreed, shifting her position so that her one arm was around the brunette's shoulders, allowing her to walk her out of the therapist's office and toward her car. Once there, she opened the passenger door and slowly helped her friend get inside, making sure to buckle her seat belt, since even after sitting down... she barely moved. Pyrrha then entered the driver's seat, inserted her key into the ignition, turned the vehicle on, and pulled out of the parking lot and onto the road.
It took a few minutes, but Coco eventually voiced her opinion on what she wanted to eat for an admittedly late lunch, which by no surprise, was a burger. Of course that was no issue, Pyrrha was just a tad surprised that she wanted to go out for fast food, rather than to head straight home to eat there. No matter, she could go for a burger as well. So, driving over to one of Coco's favourite burger joints, as she heard them be called, she took them through the drive-thru, handled the ordering, collected their delicious-smelling food, and subsequently drove them home.
Upon arriving back at the apartment, Pyrrha helped her friend remove her shoes and brought her over to sit on the couch. Normally, she ruled against eating in the living area, as she had experience with Ruby eating a little... messier when excited, but today was a special case, so she would allow it this time. While Coco timidly waited on the couch, Pyrrha took out their respective meals - both having a burger and fries - grabbed some napkins, and brought them into the living area, where she handed the brunette her food, before picking up the television remote.
"Would you like to watch something specific?" Pyrrha softly wondered. Unfortunately, Coco did not respond, instead merely staring down at the plate of food in her hands, gaze... almost hollow, as if there was no life behind them. Gods... That session really broke her...
"She was my everything, Pyr..." Coco murmured, voice barely above a whisper. "Helped me learn how to be confident, and... be the person that people know me as..." Then she sniffled. "What am I without her..."
Upon hearing that, Pyrrha realized something. Her friend was talking... completely without filter...
"I was actually an introvert before meeting her... Y'know, real reclusive artsy type... and after bein' paired up in one of our high school classes... don't even remember what it was anymore... we kinda fell together 'cause of that..." Coco continued, idle gaze not leaving the meal in her lap. "Velv helped me grow, and... come out of my shell... So I helped her in return... We improved each other... She grew as a person, and I created an idealized version of myself... so I could be strong for her..."
Pyrrha could hear that Coco's voice was starting to break as tears pooled in her eyes. "I dunno who I am without Velv... So much of what I am is 'cause of all her love and support... Now... w-without her... This... ideal version of myself... just hurts..." Then the tears began to stream down her cheeks. "It was all for her... and every time things become clear... it only hurts more..." Coco let out a shaky, heavy sigh. "I can't be myself anymore, Pyr... That was only possible 'cause of Velv..."
At that very moment, Pyrrha came to realize something else. She had interacted with Cinder both before and after her therapy sessions, and... the older woman appeared to have handled them quite well... unlike Coco. A single session had truly shaken the brunette to her core, because more than anything, she needed to completely fall apart and bare it all, and thankfully, Glynda had given her a safe and trustworthy avenue to do so. It was reassuring to know, but at the same time... there was one thing that Pyrrha knew for certain.
This was only the beginning of a long journey.
Slipping her hand into Coco's, she held tightly as her broken friend mourned once more.
For the first time since Weiss had begun staying with her, Yang did not have a beer upon returning home from work. It was a bit odd to see at first, until she remembered what happened the prior day.
After her shift at work, the blonde went out to the store to pick up some more of her favourite craft beer, as she had apparently unknowingly finished the last of what she had a couple days before. Though, her trip did not exactly go as planned, since after a brief internal crisis, she decided to go see a therapist about her admittedly unhealthy drinking habits, and... Weiss could definitely see that the session affected her when she got home, judging by how uncharacteristically quiet she was. Of course it did not go as far as to break her, but... it was clear that she had been given a lot to think about. At first, Weiss tried to give her friend some space, allowing her to go about the evening at her own pace, but Yang expressed that she wanted her there with her. So the two chose to simply watch some cartoons. At least, until she was ready to explain what happened.
It began slow, but Yang was... actually incredibly open with her experience, beginning with why she did it in the first place. She went to therapy... partially because Weiss had previously called her out on drinking vodka straight from the bottle at three in the morning. Now, Yang was sharing her thoughts because Glynda, the therapist, highlighted that she would benefit the most from being able to open up to others about her feelings, rather than drinking her sorrows away alone. So, that was what she did.
Yang explained how Glynda explained her issue was that she was aware of her flaws, yet could not seem to stand pushing them onto others, so she self-isolated and self-medicated, attempting to be the perfect person for those around her. Then, whenever it became too much, she would get drunk, and that version of herself would reach out to the people that she craved love and cared for... like when Neo dumped her. It was not a pleasant conversation, especially considering that they had recently let that woman stay at the blonde's apartment the day before, but understood why that memory needed to be brought up again. Thankfully, Yang eventually smiled again, talking about how the therapy session made her feel, how... almost relieved she felt to finally have some idea about what was wrong with her. But even so, she was going to at least try to cut back on her drinking until the next session in a couple days, which was now tomorrow.
Now that Weiss thought about it, a day later, that was... such an intensely private thing that her friend was trusting her with... and she told her everything without a second thought... Looking away from the cartoons that they were currently watching, her gaze shifted to Yang from her spot on the couch, and she managed a smile as she watched her pop a potato chip into her mouth. "Hey, Yang?"
Glancing over, the blonde chewed and swallowed the chip. "'Sup?"
Weiss was quiet for a moment, merely staring at the woman next to her. "I'm proud of you."
Yang quirked a brow at the sudden praise. "What for?"
"Going to therapy." Weiss clarified. "It's not easy to admit that you need help, especially to a professional. So, I am proud of you for going to see Doctor Goodwitch, and am happy that you chose to trust me with your experience."
Yang opened her mouth to respond, but paused, before managing a tight-lipped smile. "Thanks, Weiss... but it's really you and Coco that helped me... I wouldn't have had the guts to go without you." She informed, seeming a bit choked up. "So thanks... it's about time I started listening to you."
Reaching over, Weiss placed a hand atop her friend's. "You've always listened to me, Yang. It's why I'm here."
Yang merely let out a sad chuckle. "If I'd always listened to you, I wouldn't have a drinking problem."
Weiss shrugged. "Better late than never."
Yang only sighed. "Yeah, I guess..."
"Hey." Weiss interrupted, leaning over to nudge the blonde in the side with a smile. "It's only uphill from here."
After a few moments, Yang managed a small smile of her own. "With you around, I'm sure it will be."
The pair spent the next few moments in silence, just... smiling at each other... Weiss could not bring herself to look away from her friend's... gorgeous... lilac eyes... Gods, she's so beautiful... Unfortunately, it would seem that their time would be cut short, as a set of uneasy knocks brought them both back to reality. Blinking, the two shared a confused look before Yang leaned over to look past the other woman at the apartment entrance, furrowing her brow as Weiss herself turned around to do the same. It was... after ten PM, who would be there at this time of night? Hopping off of the couch, Yang quietly walked over to the front door, pushing up onto the tips of her toes to look through the peephole. Though, upon doing so and turning back around, her expression was... uncertain.
"Is everything okay?" Weiss inquired. "Who's at the door?"
Yang was quiet for a brief time, appearing... troubled. "I... think it's for you."
Weiss quirked a brow. Who would be at the blonde's apartment... for her? Hesitantly getting up off the couch, she slowly approached the door as her friend moved aside, which only served to make the situation weirder. Weiss then reached out, unlocked the door, and took hold of the brass knob. Sharing one more look with Yang, who was standing off to the side, yet still close by, she took a deep breath, attempting to mentally prepare herself for what could be waiting for her just outside of the apartment. Finally, she opened the door, revealing...
"Ver... Vernal?" Weiss gasped, unable to keep her mouth from dropping open as she laid eyes upon her... ex-girlfriend... for the first time in almost two weeks... What... was she even doing there? Did... she come to see me... of her own accord? Yang did mention that she had asked for some time off after they broke up... Was this... the first place she went?
Barely even able to make eye contact, looking away every few seconds, Vernal shifted awkwardly in place. She looked... rough... almost like a different person. "Hey... W-Weiss..." She timidly greeted, her voice... weak. Then she noticed her recently-cut hair, brow raising in surprise, but... her gaze quickly fell to the floor. "How've... you been?"
Weiss had to take a moment to get a grasp on what was happening. "I'm... I'm fine... Are you alright? Have you been eating properly? And... showering regularly?"
Vernal merely shrugged, gaze... hollow. "Not really, but y'know... what else is new..."
Suddenly, Yang cleared her throat. "Well uh, I'll leave you two alone then... Seems like you've got some stuff to talk about." She commented, offering one final smile to her friend before heading back toward her room, soon entering and gently closing the door behind her. It made Weiss think. Why had she stayed nearby if she knew Vernal was the one there, and she intended to leave them along anyway? Was she... making sure everything was alright first?
"I uh... I just came to..." Vernal began, before trailing off, and sighing, finally looking up to meet her ex's uncertain gaze. "I'm... I'm sorry I fucked everything up, and... I wanna ask for another chance..."
Weiss was at a loss for words. She... wants to try again...? She... wants me back... Her first instinct was to give her ex-girlfriend the chance that she felt she deserved, but... there was something holding her back. Ever since 'moving in' with Yang, the pair had grown closer than they ever had in the past... There was a... warmth growing between them... and as much as she loved Vernal, she did not want to sacrifice what they were beginning to have...
"Thought about bringin' you flowers, but... those things are worthless compared to you, and neither of us really cared for them anyway..." Vernal continued. "I also didn't wanna bribe you or some shit... I know that'd be wrong... So I'm... tryin' to be straight up and honest... I... I miss you..."
A few moments passed in silence, with Weiss only able to stare at her ex. Now, she was faced with a major decision that honestly, she never thought that she would ever have to go through. She could either pursue... whatever was developing between herself and Yang, or... give Vernal another chance, after she came all this way to offer a genuine apology. It was not an easy choice to make... Unfortunately, the longer she took to think about it, the more it appeared that the other woman was struggling to keep herself together.
"Can't we... just... you... both... of us? Like... I can't, but she can... I don't... mind if we..." Vernal stammered, not very coherently. She then braced her mouth against her palm, tears actually beginning to pool in her eyes as she was unable to meet Weiss' concerned gaze. "Don't leave me..."
It took a moment for Weiss to realize what had just been said, but once she did... her jaw dropped open. She's... suggesting for her and Yang to... share me, like... Oh my gods... While Weiss had always been... admittedly a bit curious about polyamory... this was... not what she had in mind... Nor was it something that she wanted right now, especially with the current circumstances. It was going to be either one or the other, not both, and... she had a feeling that she knew who it would end up being... After all... the fact that in barely two weeks, she and Yang had formed a stronger and more... mutual bond than she and Vernal did in over a year and half...
Weiss believed that she had her decision... and it was in the apartment's bedroom, likely playing on her scroll. Of course, she had no idea if her friend was even willing to commit to anything, but... she was completely ready to take that risk. Weiss knew for a fact that if things did not work out... nothing would change between them. She knew where they stood.
Finally, Weiss cleared her throat, prompting her ex's gaze to snap to her. Then, she reached forward to take her hand. "Vernal... We deserve better versions of ourselves." She explained, only causing the other woman's shoulders to slump. "We had a year to grow together, and... I loved every moment of it, but we also indulged in the worst in each other... and it hurt us in the end. So... I'm sorry, but... I can't be with you."
Vernal was dead silent, gaze... hollow once more as she blankly stared down at their connected hands, and for the first time in Weiss' memory, tears began to stream down her face. Conflict tore at her composure, grimacing as she looked away, constricting with emotion she struggled to withhold, before finally looking her ex-girlfriend in the eyes, sorrowful and pleading. "I... I-I love you, Weiss..." She almost whimpered, voice barely audible.
Stepping forward, Weiss released Vernal's hand to wrap her in a gentle hug, which was hesitantly reciprocated. "I know, Vernal. I know..." She whispered. "When I first moved to Vale, you gave me a new life, because before that... I wasn't really living at all. I was lonely, miserable, and just... tired. Then I met you, and my dull, grey life finally gained colour." Then she took a deep breath. "I'll always be here for you if you ever need me, but... I can't stay with you."
After a few moments of silence, Vernal stepped back, prompting the other woman to release her. She then managed to meet her eyes once more, opening her mouth several times, expression a mixture of discomfort and... humiliation, but... nothing came out. Eventually, Vernal's gaze fell before she merely turned away, slowly making her way down the hallway towards the staircase, dragging her heels as she walked, without saying a single word. Soon enough, she was gone. No anger, no yelling... nothing.
It was clear that Vernal wanted to just be alone... to fall apart in peace.
This was it. This was finally it. Cinder was going to be sleeping in Raven's bed with her for the very first time... and she could not be more nervous. Even though they were not even planning to do anything!
Relax. You're only sleeping in the same bed. There's nothing to worry about.
Then why is my heart beating so fast?
Because you're a pussy. Now hurry up and finish getting changed before she falls asleep without you.
Alright, alright. Bitch.
Now don't fuck this up.
Opening up one of the drawers that held her clothes, Cinder pulled out a set of her brand-new, crimson satin pyjamas, and smiled. No longer would she only be able to wear and simple pair of sweat pants and an old tank top, no, now she actually owned proper nightwear, for the first time in half a year... and her excitement to show them off to Raven was through the roof. Of course she was not going to fish for compliments, rather... she merely hoped that the older woman liked them...
Finally donning the extremely comfortable pyjamas, Cinder paid one final visit to the apartment's main bathroom to use the toilet and brush her teeth, as well as to check herself out in the mirror, ensuring that she at least looked presentable. Thankfully, due to the length of her shirt and pants, the only visible burns were the ones on her face and hand... even if she wished that they could all be covered... Though at the same time, making a habit of letting Raven see them was an admittedly good, yet still nerve-wracking way of getting used to it.
Upon exiting the bathroom after eventually accepting that she looked fine, Cinder slowly made her way toward the master bedroom, turning off the lights, her heart rate increasing as she did so. Once she was in front of the door, she had to take a few deep breaths, trying to steady herself. It took several moments of silently standing there for her to force herself to knock, but once she did, it did not take long to receive an answer.
"It's your room now too, Cin, come on in."
Cinder reached for the doorknob in response, but quickly froze. "But... are you decent?"
"Yeah I'm decent... enough." Raven answered from inside the bedroom.
Decent enough? "What... exactly does that mean?" Was she still getting dressed?
"I'm wearing a shirt." Raven clarified.
"And... nothing else?" Cinder hesitantly wondered.
There was a pause. "I've got panties too."
I suppose that's the best I'm going to get. Of course, Cinder would not exactly object to the older woman wearing less... specifically in regards to her shirt, but given how the two were only planning to use the bed for sleeping, she would rather not have any... distractions. So, taking one more deep breath, in a sadly futile attempt to calm herself down, she turned the knob and pushed open the door, finding Raven, clad in only a dark blue T-shirt and a pair of black boy shorts, showing off those...smooth, pale legs... and that... glorious rear of hers... Fuck, I want it on my face...
Oh my gods, now that's actually possible-
Quickly shaking those... less than appropriate thoughts away, Cinder noticed that her friend was currently pulling back the sheets from her surprisingly made bed. The mere sight of the mattress and pillows almost made her want to yawn. It had not been an exceptionally busy day or anything, and it was not very late, especially compared to some other nights, but ever since they returned home from their shifts, they had both been feeling rather tired, and agreed that they would turn in earlier than usual. Cinder expected them to end up cuddling on the couch, as they had every night since their first date, but... then Raven suggested something... a little different. She asked... if the younger woman wanted to sleep together in her bed...
It made Cinder a bit weak in the knees just thinking about it.
"You want the left or the right?" Raven inquired, pulling her friend from her thoughts. "Or do you not care? 'Cause I'm good with either one, so take your pick."
Looking down at the mattress again, Cinder took a moment to think about it. Back when... she was with Emerald, neither of them really cared about which side of the bed they were on, given how... sessions of passionate lovemaking left them in various positions, but seeing as the bedroom door was closer to the right, she figured that she would just pick that one. Plus, having Raven on her right side would mean her burns would be angled away from her. So, approaching the closer side of the mattress, Cinder gestured to it.
"I suppose I will take the right." She chose, awkwardly taking a seat on the edge.
Raven merely shrugged in response. "Sounds good." She accepted, picking up her scroll from the night table next to the bed, switching on the flashlight, and pointing it upwards before putting it back down... even though the bedroom light was still on. She then walked over to the bedroom door, softly shut it, and turned off the light, leaving the room to only be dimly lit up by her scroll flashlight. Oh, now it made sense. Making her way back to 'her' side of the mattress, Raven switched off her scroll's flashlight, climbed on, slid her legs under the covers, and grabbed them to pull up. So Cinder followed suit, hesitantly removing her mask and placing it on the night table on her side, somewhat timidly joining her friend in the bed, and together, the two pulled the covers over themselves as they laid down, facing one another with blushes quickly tinting their cheeks.
Gods, how is this so awkward?
Then Raven cleared her throat, gaze wandering off to the side... or technically up at the ceiling, as if she was embarrassed, because Cinder certainly was. "So uh, we gonna just sit here or are you gonna get over here?"
Cinder could feel her cheeks heat up even more upon hearing the question, particularly when she noticed the older woman was lifting the blanket and opening her arms. She was unable to stop herself from audibly swallowing at the sight. She wants to cuddle. She wants to cuddle! After a few moments, Cinder began to slowly shift forward, until she was directly in front of Raven, who, without even looking, leaned forward to pull the younger woman into her arms, head into her shoulder, and hugging her close. It was... comfortable... to be held by such strong arms... against... such a soft body... It was so warm...
Wrapping her own arms around her friend's torso, Cinder smiled to herself. She was in heaven. There was nothing that could possibly make this moment better, except maybe... if they were naked... Although, judging from how dark it currently was, the absence of clothing would not exactly change anything... aside from... the feeling of Raven's soft, bare skin against her own... It would... probably be rather easy to... well, get a little frisky, but at the same time... they were trying to sleep... Perhaps tomorrow...
A sudden soft pressure upon her head drew her attention, which she soon recognized as a soft kiss planted by her newfound cuddle buddy, as the embrace around her tightened.
"Night, Cin."
Even though it was not the first time that she had been kissed like that, Cinder could not help but grin like an idiot... and likely blush even deeper. She thanked the gods that her face went unseen at this angle, allowing her to simply enjoy their present situation. Though, after a few moments, Cinder felt like she should probably respond in some way. Glancing up, she was met with the sight of Raven's neck, barely visible in the dark room. So, she went with the only thing that she could think of. Leaning up, Cinder pressed her lips against the warm skin.
"Goodnight, Rave."
And with that, the two found their ideal spots, with Cinder snug in Raven's arms, they shut their eyes, and went to sleep. At least... that was the plan.
"I'm not tired." Raven informed after only a couple minutes, her body thrumming with the silky sound of her voice.
As great as their current position was... even Cinder had to admit... "Laying here is boring."
Raven was quiet for a few moments, perhaps thinking of a solution. "We could make out."
Cinder merely snuggled closer. "Too comfortable for that." And I don't want to be horny while trying to sleep.
Raven just let out a soft chuckle. "Lame."
Reaching up to caress the older woman's cheek, Cinder turned her face as she leaned in to meet her in a brief kiss, then another, and another. Then she grinned, as an idea popped into her head. "We can play in the morning."
Raven only smirked, likely realizing that the same phrase had come from her own lips after their first date. "Bitch."
Cinder shrugged, snuggling closer once more. "Then kick me out of bed, why don't you."
Raven paused for a moment, before pulling the younger woman closer, and planting another kiss atop her head. "Nah."
Another few minutes passed, and as comfortable as they both were in each other's arms, it felt... off somehow, as if something was missing... Cinder took some time to think about it, but nothing came to mind... Then it clicked. It was dead quiet. Every other night the couple had slept in the living area, where they had the noise of the television as ambiance... It was a pleasant part of their routine... but since they were in the bedroom... there was no such noise. Cinder figured that they would still be able to sleep without it, but... it might prove to be more difficult...
"It's too quiet." Suddenly came Raven's quiet voice.
"Because we don't have the television." Cinder commented, not even opening her eye.
"Could always bring it in here." Raven suggested.
And give up this position? "Fuck that, I'm buying us a flat screen."
While it went unseen, Raven glanced down and raised her brow. "On a bar girl's salary?"
Cinder merely shrugged. "I'll wear a short skirt for a few weeks." At first, the older woman was quiet, which made her think that she trying to think of some witty response... Or maybe she fell asleep. Or... was she... uncomfortable with the idea of Cinder using her showing off her body like that? Of course, she had no idea if she would actually do something like that, but... the idea that Raven could potentially not want using what little feminine charm she had left for anyone else... was admittedly a bit alluring... Though, it seemed that Cinder's guess would soon be proven wrong, as her friend let out a hum.
"Hmm, make it a few months and we can go halvesies."
Author's Note: Thanks for reading! Let me know what you think!
Because as always, your feedback fuels us!
