Debt of a Gem

by Songbird's Spirit

A collection of stories detailing the strange friendship forged between Peridot and a human named Debbie. Peridot, owing a debt to the woman after she protected her gem while her physical form regenerated, vows to off the human the moment her debt is paid. But will time change the way these two think of one another? (Drabbles, One-Shots, Slight Language)

25. Blue Lips Blue Pain

"...so, uh, you're Lapis?"

"Yeah. Debbie, right?"

"Mm, yeah." Debbie rubbed her shoulder with an awkward grin, "Heh, sorry. This is weird for you too right? Like, strangers aren't really your thing."

"Uh, yeah. Pretty much."

Debbie chuckled, somewhat sheepishly as Lapis watched her with that nearly expressionless gaze. Lapis seemed pretty closed off, emotionless almost. Though something told the redhead that the gem just wasn't a people-person.

Debbie shook away her doubts and instead, offered an easy smile.

"Right. Fair enough." She relented, "I'll try not to be too...y'know...overly friendly?"

"Cool," Lapis scratched her arm with a look of mild indecision. "Look, I don't mean to sound rude, but why are you here?"

Debbie snorted, finding she almost appreciated Lapis' unfiltered curiosity. "Uh, Peridot invited me over. She wanted to show me around the barn. Said something about...uh, Camp Pining Hearts and clothing."

"Oh, you like CPH too? Weird."

"Hmph," Debbie shrugged, "Sure, it's not bad. I just hope season six doesn't wind up like season five did."

"They're making another season?"

"Mhm, it comes out in November, I think."

"Debbie! Lapis! C'mon!" Peridot shouted from inside the barn, "Camp Pining Hearts is on in five minutes!"

"Be right there!" Debbie called.

Lapis nodded, waiting until Peridot retreated back into the barn before releasing a heavy sigh. "Hn, Peridot seems to like you."

"You think so? We've known each other-."

"I'll give you a chance since you make her happy," Lapis continued, ignoring Debbie altogether, "But that doesn't mean we're friends. I don't...really want to make a lot of those anyway."

Debbie regarded the gem for a moment, ultimately offering a small smile.

"I understand." Debbie replied calmly, throwing Lapis for a slight loop. "Mutual tolerance, mutual respect. Sound good?"

"Y-yeah, sure."

Debbie offered one last nod before heading towards the barn, missing the strange look Lapis gave her.

By the end of the night Lapis was pleasantly surprised. Debbie hadn't tried to talk to her really, but still made a subtle effort to include her.

Perhaps they could get along.