"Happy Birthday!" Delphine shouts into the phone.
"Thank you, Del," Krystal responds giddily. "I'm super excited for dinner tonight."
"Me too."
"But right now there's something else I'm excited about. Tell me everything. How'd your date with Cosima go?"
"It was okay," Delphine responds flatly.
"Just okay?" Krystal asks incredulously. "What happened?"
"There wasn't any chemistry. I think we're way better off as friends."
"Wow, I'm really sorry to hear that. And I'm also really shocked. I was so sure this was going to work out much differently for the two of you."
"Yeah, so did I," Delphine agrees. "She's an incredible kisser, though."
"That's too bad," Krystal says sadly. "Wait, what did you just say?"
Delphine starts laughing.
"Del, what the hell? You kissed?"
"Oh yeah, we kissed."
"On the first date, I'm impressed!"
"Yeah, well, I think Cosima was right about all the other time we spent together being like pre-dates."
"So I take it the date was more than just okay?"
"Much more than okay."
"And there will be a second date?"
"Definitely."
"I hate you! My heart was breaking."
"I'm sorry, I couldn't resist."
"It's okay, I'm over it. Now tell me everything."
Delphine proceeds to recount the whole date for Krystal, before telling her about the shooting star wish and initiating the kiss.
"Oh my god, that's adorable. I'm so happy for you! So it wasn't weird or anything, kissing a girl?"
"No, I mean, I thought it might be, and I was nervous, but as soon as our lips met, any doubts or worries I had were quickly erased. Her lips," Delphine sighs, "they're so soft and tender."
"Mmm, sounds like you enjoyed yourself. How'd the date end?"
"So there we were in the gazebo, kissing for I don't know how long, when park security shines a light on us and is like, 'Excuse me ladies, the park closed at midnight, which was fifteen minutes ago. You need to leave.' I'm pretty sure we were both blushing at that point. We apologized, then woke Polonium from her nap and rode back through the woods," Cosima explains.
"And?" Tony presses.
"Well, she definitely held on even tighter than before as we made our way home. Then we got back and put Polonium in her stall. I could be imagining it, but I think Leda looked up at us as we were leaving the stables and winked."
"Um, I doubt that, but go on."
"We held hands as I walked her back to the main house, then she invited me to go with her to Krystal's birthday dinner tonight. I think we were both kind of stalling at the front door, trying to figure out how to end the date."
"And then, after saying goodnight to each other about 4 times, she kissed me once more before I went inside," Delphine finishes telling Krystal. "It was really nice."
"Awww," Krystal exclaims, "that's so sweet."
"Virtual high-five," Tony holds up his hand on the other side of the FaceTime call and Cosima returns the gesture.
"I'm still kinda in disbelief about the whole thing, to be honest," Cosima admits. "Even though I thought she liked me, I didn't really think she'd act on it, and when she kissed me, I was definitely in shock for a sec before I was sure it was really happening. I just hope she's not regretting it today."
"Dreads, chill, it sounds like she's really into you. You're going out again tonight, that's a good sign."
"Yeah, but what if she's changed her mind? Maybe the wine we were drinking caused her to be more uninhibited and now she thinks it was a big mistake and doesn't want to see me again."
"Calm down, she admitted having feelings for you before she kissed you. I don't know the girl, but from what you've said, it doesn't seem like she just impulsively does something unless she means it. Why don't you hang up with me and call her, feel out the situation, get reassurance?"
"You're probably right, I'm just worrying for nothing. I'll give her a call. Thanks, man. Talk to you soon."
"You got it. I'm happy for you, Cosima."
They end the FaceTime call and Cosima looks at her phone for a minute before pulling up Delphine's contact, then stares at that for another couple minutes debating calling Delphine when the phone starts ringing in her hand, the name Delphine popping up on the display. Cosima tosses the phone in shock before scrambling after it to answer.
"Hello."
"Good morning," Delphine replies cheerfully, the happiness in her voice instantly setting Cosima at ease.
"Good morning!"
"I had a great time last night."
"Yeah, ditto, obvs."
"Thank you for making everything so special."
"You're very welcome, it was my pleasure."
"Are you meeting Felix soon for practice?"
"No, we have today off, Felix wants Leda to rest one more day before we get back into it. What are you up to?"
"I told Maman I'd go with her to pick out furniture for a renovation she's doing to Papa's study. But, now that I know you're not working, I'd rather spend the day with you."
"You would?"
Delphine laughs, "Why do you sound so surprised?"
"I'm not surprised, I'm just, I don't know, I guess I was just worried that you might regret last night and the kissing and-"
"Cosima," Delphine cuts her off, "I don't regret any of last night and I definitely do not regret kissing you. In fact, I wish I was kissing you right now."
"You do?"
"I do."
"Okay, wow, well you remember what I said about wishes that are easily attainable? Why don't you come over?"
"I want to, I really, really do, but I did promise Maman, and as much as I want to bail on her and be with you, I probably shouldn't."
"Yeah, totes, I completely understand."
"But I will see you later tonight. We're leaving at a quarter to 6 so we can drive into Arlington and meet Krystal at the restaurant. Felix is coming with us."
"Okay, cool. I'll meet you outside then. Have a good time shopping!"
"Merci, enjoy your day off."
"Thanks!" They hang up and Cosima jumps up on her bed, squealing in delight.
—
Delphine is standing by her car a little before 5:45 when she sees Cosima approaching, her face instantly lights up at the sight of the jockey, "Bonsoir, ma cherie."
"Hey, you look great."
"So do you."
They stand there for a moment, just looking at each other, both unsure of what to do next.
Finally, Cosima speaks, "Is it weird that all I want to do is kiss you?"
"Not when all I want to do is kiss you, too."
Delphine looks around, then grabs Cosima's hand and leads her to the side of the garage. Once they're out of the line of sight of the house, she cups Cosima's cheeks and brings their lips together, backing the jockey into the wall with the force of her fervor. In the heat of the moment, Cosima's tongue finds its way into Delphine's mouth. Cosima internally panics for a second when she realizes what she just did, until Delphine moans her obvious satisfaction and returns the gesture in kind.
"Delphine, where the bloody hell are you?" Felix shouts when he gets to the car.
The girls freeze at the sound of his voice, their lips still joined. Reluctantly, they pull apart.
"Do we want him to know?" Cosima whispers.
"We'll never hear the end of it."
"True. Okay, you go first and then I'll sneak around that way so it looks like I'm coming from my place."
"Okay." Delphine gives her a quick peck on the lips before walking out to the driveway. "I'm right here, Felix, no need to holler."
"I just don't want to be late, come on," Felix walks to the passenger side door.
"Cosima is coming, too."
"Oh great, then we'll definitely be late."
"Hey, I heard that," Cosima says as she approaches the car.
"Sorry, darling, I just hate sitting in traffic and don't want poor Krystal sitting there all alone waiting for us." He opens the passenger door and extends his arm, "After you."
"Felix, why don't you let Cosima sit up front," Delphine suddenly requests.
"Why?" he asks.
"Because she, well, she gets carsick in the back seat."
"Eww," he cringes. "Wait, you never got sick on the bus."
"Um, yeah, well cars are different, I don't know what it is, but I just kinda vomit," Cosima continues Delphine's lie.
Felix holds up his hand, "Stop, please, I've heard enough. It's fine, I'll sit in the back."
Felix climbs into the backseat and Cosima takes the front. Delphine gets behind the wheel and smiles at Cosima before starting the car and taking off. As they drive, Delphine and Cosima pretend to listen to Felix while they discreetly join hands just below the center console.
"Oi," Felix suddenly shouts, causing the girls to pull their hands away.
"What is it?" Delphine asks.
"Weren't we supposed to get off at the last exit?"
Delphine looks at the highway signs, "Merde, yes, I'll just get off at the next one and loop around."
"What's got you so distracted?"
"Nothing, I'm not distracted, just had a long day of furniture shopping."
"How'd that go?" Cosima asks.
"Good. We found a really nice antique desk that I think Papa will adore."
"Cool."
"Yeah, Papa is taking Maman away that weekend for a little 30th anniversary getaway and I'll be home to see that it's all delivered and setup. When they get back, all the new furniture will be in there and it should be a nice surprise for him."
"That sounds great."
"Yes, lovely," Felix agrees.
They pull up in front of the restaurant and valet the car. When they're shown to their table, they discover that Krystal is not alone.
"Hey guys!" Krystal exclaims, jumping up to hug everyone as they all wish her a happy birthday. "You all know Hector. He mentioned he'd be in the area so I invited him to join us."
"Hello, everyone," Hector grins.
"Hello, handsome, I mean Hector," Felix says flirtatiously as he takes the seat next to Hector.
Delphine sits next to Krystal and Cosima sits between Delphine and Felix.
"So, Krystal, how does it feel to be 25?" Felix inquires.
"Great! I got my hair done this morning, then one of my co-workers treated me to a mani/pedi, and then I bought this hot new dress. Twenty-five is, like, totally agreeing with me."
"You do look great," Delphine adds.
"You look great, too, Del. Like, really happy," Krystal winks before turning her attention to Cosima. "How is life as a Kentucky Derby winner?"
"Oh, it's been nice so far."
"Yeah, I bet. No pun intended."
"I must admit, I am quite jealous," Hector interjects. "Your first time at the Derby and you come away with the win. You ran an amazing race, though, my friend. As soon as you passed Double Down and I, I knew you were going to be the victor."
"I just got lucky."
"Oh no, no, that was not luck, that was skill. Trust me, I've been racing for many years, you are special. You connect with your horse in a way that's very rare."
"Thanks. Leda is a special horse, she makes my job a lot easier. And this guy," Cosima points to Felix, "he deserves a lot of the credit for his tireless training."
"Ah," Felix blushes, "go on."
"You're a great trainer, Felix. You've taught me more in the last month about communicating with a horse than I had learned previously. That connection that Hector senses I have with Leda, that's all because of you."
"I appreciate that, but now this is getting too mushy. All the mush this evening should be directed at the guest of honor, our fabulous birthday girl. Waiter, can we get a round of margaritas? It's time to get the Krystal Goderitch Cinco de Drinko event started right."
The waiter returns a few minutes later with their drinks. "To Krystal," Felix toasts, glass in hand.
"To Krystal," the other three repeat as they all clank their glasses together and begin to drink, with Delphine abstaining after her second since she is the designated driver this evening.
As they enjoy their meal, Delphine and Cosima slowly start playing footsie under the table. After a while, Delphine excuses herself to powder her nose, giving Cosima a pointed look as she leaves the table.
Thirty seconds later, Cosima decides that she, too, needs to use the restroom, and quickly follows Delphine's lead. When she arrives at the bathroom, Delphine is waiting outside. "It's a one stall," she explains. As soon as the current occupant exits, Delphine steps in, while Cosima lingers outside. Delphine grabs her hand and pulls her in with her, quickly locking the door behind them as she pushes Cosima up against it, her mouth immediately covering the smaller girl's.
"Mmm, Delphine," Cosima moans between kisses, "this is a pleasant surprise."
"What is?"
"This," Cosima gestures around, "us making out in the bathroom. Just a few days ago I thought you'd never kiss me and now-"
"And now I can't stop kissing you," Delphine finishes, giving Cosima another kiss for emphasis.
"Yeah, that," Cosima grins.
"I was blind, but now I see," Delphine jokes as she nips at Cosima's lips.
Cosima wraps her arms around Delphine's neck as she deepens the kiss, the two of them getting lost in each other for a while until they're interrupted by loud knocking.
"You gonna be much longer? I really need to pee," a lady inquires.
"Sorry, one second," Delphine responds. "How are we both going to slip out of here?"
"Don't worry, just follow my lead," Cosima gives her one more kiss before turning and opening the door. The woman on the other side's eyes pop at the sight of both girls exiting the bathroom. "She had something stuck in her teeth, I was just helping her get it out," Cosima winks as they walk by the woman.
Delphine pokes her in the side, "You're so bad." Cosima shrugs as they walk back to their table'
"Look who's back," Felix says as they sit. "Did you two have a nice snog?"
"What?" Delphine asks with surprise.
"Oh, don't give me that innocent look, Delphine. I smelled that one's perfume on you the moment you came out from behind the garage. And that carsick line? Please. Then there was the distracted driving while you were holding hands. You really think I didn't notice?"
"Well, I, uh."
"If you're making out in the loo, I assume the bet date went well then?"
"You knew about that?" Delphine whips her head towards Krystal.
"I'm sorry, I was just so excited, it slipped out."
"Yes, it went very well," Cosima responds happily, her tongue jutting out between her teeth as she grips Delphine's hand.
"Well, I have to admit, I'm surprised," Felix says.
"Why?" Delphine wonders.
"I thought you were just humoring the little one, wanting to encourage her to do well in the race. I did not expect," he points towards their joined hands, "that."
"Well I did," Krystal insists with a big smile. "And this just makes my birthday even more special."
"I don't know what bet you're all talking about," Hector adds, "but, as I told Cosima the other day, I already thought you two were together."
Delphine blushes, "It took my head a while to catch up to what my heart was feeling."
"Gross," Felix gags, "don't start getting lovey dovey on me. And please do not kiss in my presence, I won't survive."
"Felix is just annoyed that he was wrong. He spent weeks telling me Delphine would never like me."
"He said that?" Delphine asks and Cosima nods. "Then I guess he deserves this," Delphine leans in and kisses Cosima on the lips.
"Oh god, my eyes," Felix throws his hands up in front of his face to block out the sight.
Krystal watches the action with a giant grin, "Aww, they're so adorable."
"Don't encourage them, please," Felix begs. "You've made your point. Stop. Where should we go next?"
"We passed an arcade up the block. What's better than drunken laser tag?" Cosima asks.
"I'm sure I can think of plenty."
"Oh hush, Felix, laser tag sounds fun," Krystal says.
They pay their tab and walk towards the arcade.
"How many in your group?" the guy working the desk asks.
"Five," Cosima responds.
"Alright, I'll add you to the list and we'll call you up when it's time for you to face your opponents. Should be about 15-20 minutes. What should we call your team?"
"Anybody have any suggestions?" Cosima looks to her friends.
"Wellm most of you are in horse racing," Krystal observes, "so how about Team Horse Mega Force?"
They all nod their agreement with that. "Team Horse Mega Force it is," Cosima announces.
They sit down on the benches to wait their turn. Delphine looks around the arcade and spots something that grabs her attention, "Cosima."
"Yeah?"
"Come with me for a second," Delphine rises, pulling Cosima up by her hand and leading her to their destination.
"A photo booth?"
"Oui, I've always loved these." They enter the booth, pull back the curtain, and sit down.
"Oh cool, this one gives duplicates," Cosima notes as they feed dollar bills into the machine. "Okay, what kinda pose should we make?"
"Maybe just a smiley one for the first picture."
They smile as the first flash goes off. "Now goofy," Cosima says, and they make silly faces for the 2nd pic. "Let's do one that's super serious, like how people used to pose back in the day." They straighten their backs and adopt serious expressions as the third photo is snapped. "What should we do for the the fourth?"
"Hmm, how about this," Delphine cups Cosima's cheeks and kisses her as the last flash lights up the booth. They continue kissing even after the photo is taken, stopping only when they hear kids outside the booth waiting their turn.
They exit and collect their photos from the slot. "You look like a model," Cosima states as she glances over at Delphine, who doesn't respond, instead she;s intently studying the photos. "What is it?"
"Nothing, it's just, us."
"Yes, that's us," Cosima laughs.
Delphine finally pulls her eyes away from the photos and onto Cosima, "We look good. Together, I mean."
"Yeah."
"I guess I just never thought about it before. I think I've just been so conditioned to seeing couple photos from these machines being a man and a woman, but us, in this last photo, kissing, it looks natural. It looks…" Delphine pauses to find the word she's going for, "right."
"That's cause it is right," Cosima stands on her tip-toes and gives Delphine a kiss.
"Team Horse Mega Force and Slap Shots, please come to the laser tag counter," a voice over the PA system calls out.
"We're up, come on," Cosima turns and starts heading for the rest of their group, while Delphine trails behind, her eyes returning to the photo strip with a smile on her face.
"These senior citizens are our opponents?" a teenage boy asks with amusement when he sees Cosima, Delphine, Krystal, Hector, and Felix all suited up.
"Senior citizens?" Felix responds with offense. "I'll have you know we are all in our twenties. You lot look like your mothers still change your diapers."
"Are you some kind of sports team?" Krystal asks, noticing the jerseys the boys are wearing.
"We're on our school's ice hockey team."
"It's May, what kind of ice hockey are you playing?" Felix wonders.
"We're not, it was school spirit day today."
"They're also athletes," Krystal points towards Hector and Cosima.
"Yeah," the teen looks them up and down, "what sport could you two possibly compete in?"
"Horse racing," Hector answers. "We're jockeys."
The boys start laughing, "Two jockeys and their cheerleaders. Good luck."
"I'm pretty sure it's you boys who'll need the luck when we whip your arses."
They grab their laser guns and enter the game arena. Both teams take a moment to strategize.
"Delphine come with me," Cosima instructs. "Krystal, you and Hector go that way, Felix you go around there and sneak behind enemy lines."
They all nod and head off in the indicated directions, with Delphine trailing close behind Cosima. "You've done this before?"
"Yeah, my friend Tony and I have played a bunch. When you see our opponents, just aim for their chests and shoot. The blue light will go off for kills. If the red light on ours goes off, we're dead."
"Do you see anybody?" Delphine asks as they duck behind some fake rocks.
"No," Cosima takes a quick peek around the rocks, "looks like we're alone."
"I'm sorry."
Cosima swiftly turns her head to look at Delphine, "Sorry about what?"
"I'm sorry Felix told you I wouldn't return your feelings and I'm sorry I responded the way I did when you first told me you liked me."
"Hey, it's okay. None of that matters now. I didn't care what Felix said and you just made me work harder for you, for this. It was all worth it. Yesterday was worth it, today was worth it, and everyday from now on will be worth it."
Delphine brings a hand up to caress Cosima's cheek, "Why are you so sweet?"
"Am I?"
"You are," Delphine nods before leaning in and kissing Cosima, "very sweet." Their kissing is interrupted by a shriek. "That was definitely Krystal."
"Come on, let's go check on her," they head off in the direction of the noise.
"Hide," Hector tells Krystal as he points his gun at the 4 boys walking towards him, "I've got this." Krystal hurries off. "Guys, let's compromise, it's 4 on 1, maybe 3 of you can lay down your arms."
"Yeah, right," one of the boys says. "Men, ready, aim, fire." Suddenly all 4 boys shoot at Hector, who is only able to shoot and hit one of them as his light goes off. "Pete's down, we've lost one of our own, find the girl." The three boys separate and rush off.
Krystal sneaks out from her hiding spot and approaches Hector, who is laying on the ground. "That wasn't a fair fight."
"Avenge me," Hector says as he takes his final breath, closing his eyes.
"Krystal," Delphine whispers as she and Cosima approach the manicurist. "Are you okay?"
"They didn't have to kill Hector," she says sadly.
"That's kinda the point of the game," Cosima laughs. "Looks like he got one on his way out though. Come on, we need to get the other four before they get us. Where's Felix?"
"I haven't seen him," Krystal responds as she leaves Hector's side and follows Cosima and Delphine.
Felix spots one of the boys near Slap Shot's home base. He quietly sneaks up behind him, "Put your hands up and turn around slowly."
The young man laughs, "You really think you can get a shot off quicker than me once I turn around?"
"That depends. Do you feel lucky? Well do ya, punk?" The boy spins around, gun in hand, both of them shoot simultaneously, Felix's shot hitting the target. "Haha, sucker." Felix blows on his gun in triumph.
"Felix watch out," Cosima shouts, just as one of the other boys jumps out and shoots Felix, his red light illuminating.
"Shite," Felix curses as he's eliminated.
Cosima aims her gun at his assailant and pulls the trigger, hitting the target.
"Nice one, chérie," Delphine compliments.
"Thanks," Cosima smiles. "Okay, sadly, we've lost Hector and Felix, it's up to us girls now. There are 3 more puckle heads out there, we can do this. I think we should split up so we're not ambushed all together. I'll take the middle. Delphine, you go around the left. Krystal, you take the right side."
"Got it," Krystal nods as she tiptoes off.
"Be careful, Cosima," Delphine grasps her hand.
"Don't worry, I can't die now, we've only just begun." She squeezes Delphine's hand and pulls her close, placing a kiss upon her lips before sending her on her way.
As Krystal is walking, a boy jumps in her path, she squeals and squeezes the trigger, hitting his target. "Ooh, got ya, sucker," she says as she steps over the fallen hockey player.
Cosima stays low, ducking behind rocks and bushes, when it looks like the coast is clear, she steps out, just as one of the boys appears from behind a tree, gun aimed straight for her. Just as he pulls the trigger, Delphine jumps in front of Cosima, taking the deadly hit. Cosima quickly raises her gun and fires off a shot, the boy's blue light glowing as she falls to the ground with Delphine. "Why'd you do that?"
"I couldn't let him kill you."
"My hero," Cosima coos. "I'll never forget you." Cosima places a kiss upon her lips as Delphine's eyes close.
"What happened?" Krystal asks as she approaches the scene.
"Delphine saved my life, but, sadly, lost hers in the process."
"She cared for you a lot, Cosima." Krystal extends her hand, "I got one of them, there's only one left, let's do this. For Delphine."
Cosima nods and takes her hand, letting Krystal pull her to her feet. They walk around together for a little while, but don't spot the last boy. "I have an idea," Cosima finally says. "I think I should act as bait to lure him out of hiding, then you shoot him."
"Wait, why don't I act as the bait so you can shoot him?"
"If one of us is going to risk death, I'd rather it be me. At least if I get killed, I can spend eternity with Delphine."
"Oh my god, that is the most beautiful thing I've ever heard," Krystal proclaims. "I'm really happy the two of you finally got together. I knew it would work out."
"Thanks. I just wish we had more time together."
"I know," Krystal rubs her shoulder sympathetically.
"Ok, let's do this, you hide behind that rock, I'll step out over there, when he comes for me, fire at will."
Krystal gets behind the rock, while Cosima walks out into the open. She fake coughs a few times, drawing the attention of her opponent. The young man, who's jersey says Kurtz on the back, quietly runs from tree to tree, seeking cover as he stalks Cosima. Krystal spots him and aims, but just as she's about to shoot, he turns. She sees Kurtz getting closer and closer to Cosima, but she can't get a clear shot at the target. She kicks off her heels and makes a run for it. Just as he raises his gun to shoot Cosima, Krystal runs in, gun blazing as she fires upon him. His chest lights up and a bell goes off above them, red lights flashing along the ceiling, indicating the end of the game.
"You did it, Krystal," Cosima shouts. "We won!" She hugs Krystal.
"I can't believe it, I felt like an action movie hero."
"That was badass. I wish Delphine could have lived to see it, she would have been very proud of you."
"I am proud," Delphine's voice fills the space and the girls turn in her direction, "of both of you."
"Del, you're alive," Krystal runs and embraces her.
"You're win resurrected me," Delphine chuckles. She then walks towards Cosima, "You were really willing to sacrifice yourself so we could be together?"
"You heard that?" Cosima asks bashfully.
"I wasn't really dead, Cosima. And I was thirty feet away."
"True, well, um, yeah, you gave up your life protecting me, which was pretty hot, and I just thought what's the harm in taking a laser beam to the chest if it means I get to keep seeing you, and kissing you, in the 'afterlife'?"
"That is the oddest, but most romantic thing anyone's ever said to me"
"That's cause I'm an oddly romantic kind of gal," Cosima smirks, a smirk which is soon replaced by a pucker as Delphine leans down and kisses her.
"Ugh, somebody shoot me for real so I can be spared any more of their PDA," Felix groans as he and Hector join the girls.
"Felix, allow the ladies their celebration, they did an outstanding job this evening," Hector praises.
"Thank you, Hector," Krystal smiles.
"You're right." Felix turns towards the approaching hockey squad, "How does it feel to be beat by two jockeys and their cheerleaders now?"
The boys simply grunt and hang their heads as they leave the laser tag arena. Team Horse Mega Force laughing at their expense.
After returning their gear, the gang heads outside. "That was a lot of fun," Krystal remarks. "I never thought I'd like a game like that, but that was really kind of empowering."
"You thinking of giving up the nail biz to join the police force?" Felix jokes.
"Maybe," Krystal muses.
"What should we do now?" Hector asks. "Want to go to a club?"
Felix glances at his watch, "As much as I'd love that, we're starting our Preakness prep bright and early tomorrow morning. We should really get home."
"Awww, okay, I guess I'll let you all go," Krystal pouts. "Thank you all so, so much for a great birthday." She hugs Cosima, Felix, and Delphine goodnight. They say their goodbyes to Hector and head for the valet to retrieve Delphine's car.
"So," Hector turns to Krystal, "shall we continue your birthday night with some dancing?"
"You don't have to practice tomorrow?"
Hector shakes his head, "I don't fly back down to Florida until tomorrow afternoon."
"Okay, then dancing sounds wonderful," Krystal smiles as they walk arm in arm to their next destination.
"I know, I know, I'm getting in the back," Felix groans as the valet pulls up in Delphine's car. "Though with the way you two have been acting all night, I'm surprised you don't want me to drive so you can have the backseat."
Delphine rolls her eyes, "Shut up and get in."
As they drive, Felix stretches out in the back and promptly falls asleep. Cosima glances back at him and laughs, "Looks like we're alone now."
"Yeah, good thing I didn't let him drive."
Cosima covers Delphine's hand with her own, "Thanks for inviting me tonight, it was a lot of fun."
"It was. And you helped make it special. Krystal seemed to be enjoying herself."
"Yeah, she really found her inner ass-kicker tonight."
"She did," Delphine agrees with a laugh. "And she and Hector seem to be hitting off."
"Yeah, they do. He's a nice guy."
"I'm surprised, actually, she usually goes for the bad boys."
"She's 25 now, maybe she's changing her type. At least it's not a sugar daddy like she threatened."
"That's true. Is this what happens when you turn 25, your type changes?"
"Sometimes."
"I must be going through that condition a little early then."
"Is that so?" Cosima smirks.
"Yeah, I've never dated a tiny person before."
"Ha ha, you're so funny," Cosima sticks her tongue out.
"And I guess there's also the whole dating a girl thing."
"Which pales in comparison to the short thing."
"Hardly. I guess I just got two new types for the price of one; a small girl."
"Lucky you," Cosima says self-deprecatingly.
"Yes," Delphine runs her thumb along the underside of Cosima's hand, "lucky me."
They arrive home and rouse Felix from his slumber. "Goodnight, ladies. Delphine please don't keep her up too late."
"I won't," Delphine promises as Felix leaves them.
"You won't?" Cosima sulks.
"The last thing we need is Felix dogging us cause you're late for practice."
"Yeah, you're probably right."
"Come on," Delphine grabs Cosima's hand and they walk towards her cottage, stopping once they reach the front door. "Get some sleep, have a good practice tomorrow, and I will see you in the evening."
"Okay, goodnight," Cosima enters her cottage and swiftly closes the door behind her, leaving a stunned Delphine staring at the door. After several long seconds, the door swings open, revealing Cosima with a cheeky grin on her face. "Oh, you're still here. Did you want something?"
"I did, but I think I changed my mind," Delphine turns to leave, but stops when Cosima grabs her arm. "You really are a brat sometimes, you know that?"
"I know."
Delphine shakes her head as she moves towards Cosima, wiping the smug look off her face with a passionate goodnight kiss.
The next morning, Cosima meets Felix in the stables. "Good morning, Cosima. Please come join Leda and I." Cosima walks into Leda's stall. "Before we get started today, I just wanted to tell you both how extremely proud I am of you. You were incredible in Kentucky. I knew you had it in you, but to actually see it happen, it was honestly one of the greatest moments of my life."
"Aww, Felix, look at you going all soft on us."
"Yeah, yeah, don't expect that to happen often. All that being said, this is a new day, we've got a new race coming up, and I'm still going to make you work your arses off."
"I wouldn't expect anything less."
"Good, now let's go out there and get to work." The three of them make their way out of the stables. "The distance at Pimlico is slightly less than Churchill Downs, 9 1/2 furlongs to Churchill's 10, it's not a huge difference, but you'll have to work on making moves at a slightly quicker pace."
"Got it," Cosima says as she hops up on Leda. "I'm surprised you haven't had any snide comments about me and Delphine this morning."
"Wait, was all that kissing real? I was hoping it was just a bad dream."
"There he is." Cosima leans down to Leda's ear, "He says these things cause he doesn't want to admit he was wrong about Delphine and I."
"Yeah, yeah, whatever," Felix rolls his eyes. "Get out there and warm Leda up."
Over the course of the rest of the week, Felix has Cosima and Leda in heavy training during the day, while at night, Cosima spends time with Delphine. After practice on Saturday, Cosima gets a text from Delphine.
D: Want to come over for a Back to the Future 2 & 3 double feature?
C: Yeah, that sounds great. I'll change and be up there in a little bit.
Twenty minutes later, Delphine greets Cosima at the door and leads her into the den. "I rented both movies on iTunes so we're all good to go. I have popcorn and drinks all ready."
"Great. Where are your parents?"
"They're at a friend's retirement party."
"Ooh, so we have the house all to ourselves?"
"We do," Delphine smiles. "Sit down, I'll start the movie."
Cosima plops down onto the couch. Delphine grabs the remote, starts the sequel, and sits down on the cushion next to Cosima's.
"Hey, Marty's girlfriend is different in this one," Delphine observes.
"Yeah, the previous actress was unable to do it so they replaced her with Elisabeth Shue."
"I hate Biff," Delphine grouses later on.
Cosima laughs, "He is pretty terrible."
"It's funny to think that the movie's future is our present day."
"I know, right? But you know how it is, you always think the future is going to be so advanced, and in some ways it is, but in a subtler way than that. This was 1989 predicting 2015, and it got some things right, but we still don't have flying cars."
"Those hoverboards look fun, too bad those don't exist."
"Actually, a company has been working on it, it's not quite like the ones in the movie, but still pretty cool. I'd love to ride one."
"Maybe you could have a future in hoverboard racing."
"That would be awesome, but I think I'll stick to horses. I kind of like having a partner on the track."
By the time the movie ends, the girls have inched so close to one another that they're practically sharing a couch cushion.
Delphine turns towards Cosima, "Ready for the third part?"
"Hmm, not yet, first I think we need to take a fifteen minute intermission."
"What would you like to do during this intermission?"
"I was thinking something like this," Cosima leans forward and captures Delphine's lips.
"Taking an intermission is an excellent idea," Delphine hums between kisses.
Nearly 30 minutes later, Delphine pulls her face away from Cosima's, "Do you want to watch part three now?"
"Not really, but I guess we should."
They snuggle up on the couch as Delphine starts the last movie. Cosima begins to have trouble keeping her eyes open, briefly dozing on Delphine's shoulder before waking herself up, "Sorry."
"It's fine, you're tired, rest," Delphine gently guides Cosima's head back to her shoulder.
Cosima quickly pops her head back up, "What if I drool?"
"Don't worry, been there, done that. I can handle the drool." Delphine lowers Cosima's head once more.
"Alright, but I'm just gonna rest, not sleep," Cosima assures.
Delphine kisses the top of her head, "Sure."
Less than a minute later, Cosima is sound asleep. Delphine, getting drowsy herself, rests her own head on top of Cosima's as she struggles to keep her eyes open for the end of the movie. It's a fruitless task and soon Delphine joins Cosima in dreamland.
The rattling of keys a half hour later startles Delphine. While the sound of a door closing has her shaking Cosima awake.
"What? Did I drool?" Cosima asks sleepily as she sits up.
"No," Delphine whispers, "my parents are home."
"Oh," Cosima says as her head lolls back on Delphine's shoulder.
"Cosima," Delphine lifts her head back up, "do you want to have a conversation with my parents right now about why you're sleeping on me?"
"Point taken," Cosima shifts away from Delphine just as her parents enter the den.
"Bonsoir," Pierre cheerfully greets the girls.
"Hello, Papa," Delphine looks to her mother beside him, "Maman."
Cosima offers them a little wave, "Hi."
"What have you two been up to this evening?" Marie asks.
"Just watching movies," Delphine answers. "How was the party?"
"It was very nice," Pierre responds.
"Cool." Cosima yawns, "Well, I've had a long day, I should head home and get some sleep. Goodnight, everybody."
"I'll walk you out," Delphine jumps up and follows Cosima to the door.
"Wait, Cosima," Pierre calls after her.
"Yes?" Cosima asks as she turns to face him.
"Can we expect you at dinner tomorrow night?"
Cosima looks at Delphine, who nods, then back at Pierre, "Yes, definitely."
"Great! Bonne nuit."
"I'm sorry about the interruption," Delphine says as she closes the door behind them.
"It's fine, I should probably sleep in a bed so I'm not too stiff for practice."
"Probably," Delphine smiles. "I'll see you tomorrow."
"Yes you will. Goodnight, Delphine."
"Goodnight, Cosima," Delphine leans forward and gives her a quick peck.
On Sunday morning, Felix has Cosima and Leda on the track. Pleased with their progress, he lets them off a little early. "Are you going to Sunday dinner tonight?" Felix asks as they hang up Leda's saddle.
"Yes."
"Ooh, dinner with the parents, how exciting."
"Felix, I've had dinner with them before."
"Yes, but you weren't sticking your tongue down their daughter's throat then."
"Shut up. And they don't know about us yet, so don't say anything."
"My lips are sealed," Felix promises.
After taking an afternoon nap, Cosima showers and gets ready for dinner, opting for a burgundy dress with a beaded collar. She grabs a liquor bottle from the kitchen before heading out.
Just as Cosima goes to knock on the Cormier's door, it swings open. "Hey, that was good timing."
"Not really, I was looking out the window, waiting for you," Delphine says as she closes the door behind her.
"Mmm, couldn't wait to see me?"
"I'm always eager to see you, but I kind of just wanted to talk to you before dinner."
"Okay, what do you want to talk about?"
"I haven't told them about us."
"I know and I told Felix not to say anything."
"I told him the same when he got here," Delphine laughs. "I just wanted to assure you that me keeping it from them isn't because I'm ashamed about being with you, because I'm not."
"Okay."
"I just don't want them getting involved right now. Anytime I've introduced them to someone I'm dating they either tell me the guy is all wrong for me or they start planning our future. They have no chill."
"And this has nothing to do with me being a girl?"
"Maybe a little. I don't know for sure how they'll react, but I don't care. I just don't want it to become an issue, I want to enjoy what we have without anybody else weighing in."
"Okay, I get it."
"That's not the only reason I wanted a moment alone with you."
"It wasn't?"
Delphine shakes her head. "I also wanted a chance to do this." Just when Delphine moves in to kiss Cosima the door swings open causing her to quickly jump back.
"There you are," Pierre says, "You two can have your girl talk later, dinner is ready."
He goes back in the house and Delphine gives Cosima a quick kiss before they follow.
"Bonsoir, Cosima."
"Good evening, Marie. I brought this for us," she hands Marie the bottle.
"Cosima, that's your commemorative bottle of bourbon from the derby, you should save that for a special occasion," Pierre insists.
"Last weekend's win belongs to all of you just as much as it belongs to me. You took a chance on me, you paired me with Leda, and I owe my success to each and every one of you. So I'd like us all to share this bourbon tonight in celebration of our success in Kentucky."
"You are very special, Cosima. I will get us proper bourbon glasses," Pierre heads into the kitchen as Cosima sits down next to Delphine, who reaches over and squeezes her hand under the table. Pierre returns with 5 glasses and proceeds to pour for everyone. He then raises his glass, "To Cosima and Leda and their impressive derby win."
Everybody cheers, "To Cosima and Leda," as they clink glasses and take a drink.
"How is training for the Preakness coming?" Pierre asks as they eat.
"Very well," Felix responds. "I'll be putting them through their paces the next several days leading up to the race, but I like what I've seen so far."
"Thank you, Felix. For the compliment, not the putting us through our paces part," Cosima smiles.
"How was Krystal's birthday dinner?" Marie asks. "I'm sorry she couldn't join us tonight."
"She wanted to be here, but she's in Vegas this weekend attending a bachelorette party for one of the girls from her salon," Delphine says. "Her birthday was a lot of fun."
"Yes, it was," Felix agrees. "Even if most of us got gunned down by teenage boys."
"What?" Pierre looks at Felix with confusion.
"Nobody actually got killed, Papa. We were playing laser tag. Felix and I, unfortunately did not survive, Cosima and Krystal, thankfully, lived to conquer the competition. Krystal even had the winning kill."
"I didn't realize you went to the birthday dinner, Cosima," Marie remarks.
"Oh, um, yeah, Delphine invited me to join them."
"You two really do seem inseparable these days," Pierre remarks, causing Felix to choke on a sip of bourbon.
Everybody looks in his direction and Delphine kicks him under the table. "Sorry, a bit went down the wrong pipe. You know how gal pals are, always doing everything together, even using the ladies' room." This time Cosima is the one to kick him.
"Ah yes, not unlike Marie and her best friend, Isabelle. When I was courting your mother, I felt like I was also courting Isabelle."
"Let's hope they weren't quite like these two," Felix remarks, causing both girls to kick him simultaneously. "I mean, I hope they weren't as nerdy."
"We are not nerdy," Delphine loudly insists.
"No? On lunch breaks, Cosima is usually reading some bloody science book. Have you read any good science books lately, Delphine?"
"He's right, our preferred reading material is kinda nerdy," Cosima admits.
"Fine, whatever, we're nerds," Delphine concedes as she stabs at her dinner.
"When are you girls going to treat us to a concert?" Marie asks.
"Oh, yes, we've been waiting for an invitation downstairs to hear you play," Pierre agrees.
"What's this about a concert?" Felix asks.
"Delphine and Cosima have been spending a lot of time playing music together, Delphine on drums and Cosima on the ukulele."
"Oh, no, not the ukulele. I've been subjected to that more than enough on the bus, it has seriously given me nightmares." Cosima sticks her tongue out at Felix.
"She's actually quite good," Delphine states. "But, to answer your question, I don't think we're ready to perform for the public."
"Oh come on, not even for your mother and I?"
Delphine looks to Cosima, "Do you want to?"
Cosima shrugs, "We could give them a little preview of CN/DC."
"What is that?" Felix inquires.
"Our AC/DC cover band," Cosima responds.
"Okay, now I may actually have to stick around for the performance. This sounds too terrible to miss."
They finish dinner, then Cosima runs to her cottage to retrieve her ukulele. They all congregate in the basement. "Which song should we do?" Delphine asks Cosima.
"Highway to Hell?"
"Okay," Delphine sits down at her kit and counts them down. Cosima plays the opening riff, joined soon thereafter by Delphine.
As they play, Pierre bops his foot, Marie smiles, and Felix snapchats a pic of them with the caption, this is literally hell.
When they finish, Pierre and Marie cheer enthusiastically, while Felix rolls his eyes and slow claps for them. Cosima and Delphine take a bow.
"That was wonderful," Pierre applauds.
"Yes, it was quite priceless," Felix adds. "Now, I'm going to go find some aspirin. Goodnight all."
Marie and Pierre exit the basement soon after Felix, leaving Delphine and Cosima on their own.
"That wasn't too bad," Cosima says as she moves in between Delphine and the drums.
"Non, it could have been a lot worse. But do you see now why I pushed Felix in the pond?"
Cosima laughs, "Yeah, he can be pretty insufferable sometimes."
Delphine wraps her arms around Cosima's waist and pulls her close, resting her head against Cosima's sternum, "I've been waiting to be alone with you all night."
"Same," Cosima runs her hands through Delphine's hair.
Delphine glances at Cosima, "This is unusual."
"What is?"
"Me looking up at you. Now I know how you must feel."
"I don't think you can ever know what it feels like to look up at you, it's a pretty incredible view."
"This view is pretty incredible, too," Delphine says as she reaches up and pulls Cosima's face down to hers. Just as their lips meet, Cosima starts laughing. "What's so funny?"
"Do you think your mom and Isabelle were this close?"
Delphine can't help but giggle at that, "For my father's sake, I hope not."
"We're just gals being pals," Cosima gives Delphine a kiss.
"I've never had a gal pal quite like you before," Delphine pinches Cosima's side, causing her to yelp and back into a cymbal, which emits a shrill clamor.
"Everything okay down there?" Marie asks from the top of the steps.
"Oui, Maman, we just got a little overenthusiastic with the music."
"A little overenthusiastic with something," Cosima says, causing Delphine to swat at her. "It's getting late, I should go."
"Okay, goodnight, gal pal," Delphine grins.
Cosima gives her a kiss, "Sleep tight, gal pal." She then saunter up the stairs, leaving Delphine sitting at her drum set watching her go.
—
"Why is it so freakin' hot today?" Cosima asks as meets Felix in the stables at 7am.
"It's only supposed to get hotter."
"Great," Cosima groans.
"Come on, let's get to work, maybe we can finish early. I have a date with Colin later, I could use the extra prep time."
As Cosima and Leda run the track, the sun seems to be focussing all it's energy on them. Sweat drips from Cosima's head and Leda shows signs of fatigue."
"Okay, bring it in," Felix shouts. "Let's call it a day."
Cosima hops off Leda and lays down on the grass.
"What are you doing?"
"Resting. Take Leda back to the stables, enjoy your date with Colin, I'll head in soon."
"Are you sure?" Cosima nods and Felix takes the reins, walking Leda back to the stables.
A half hour later, Delphine sees Cosima laying on the ground near the practice track and rushes over. "Cosima, what's wrong?"
Cosima doesn't open her eyes, just mumbles, "I'm dying. It's like 1000 degrees out here."
"Get up, we'll go inside and turn on the air conditioning."
"I can't get up, I can't move, it's too hot. Just let me lay here and melt to death."
"Don't be ridiculous," Delphine stares down at the jockey who remains unmoving. "Where's Felix?"
"I told him I needed to rest, he brought Leda back to the stables and then went out with Colin."
"Well you can't stay here like this," Delphine thinks for a moment. "I have an idea. Get on my back."
Cosima's eyes finally pop open, "What?"
"I'll carry you back to your cottage."
"You mean like a piggyback ride?"
"Oui, except I am not a piggy, so a Delphineback ride. Now up," Delphine extends her hand to Cosima.
"You really think you can carry me?" Cosima asks as she lets herself be pulled to her feet.
Delphine scoffs, "You're itty bitty, it won't be a problem, get on." Delphine turns her back to Cosima and bends down to let the other girl mount her. Once Cosima's arms are around her neck and legs around her waist, she stands up. "Wow, how much have you had to eat today?"
"Shut up! Am I too heavy for you?"
"No, I can hardly feel you. Are you really back there?" Delphine feigns looking behind herself, unable to spot the jockey. Cosima blows a raspberry against her neck. "Hey!"
"Don't 'hey' me, come on, giddy up, take me to my homestead."
"Oh, am I your horsey now?"
"Yup!" Cosima gives her playful slap on the butt.
"I think this horse is about to go buck wild."
"What does that me-" before Cosima can finish the question, Delphine grabs her legs tightly and starts running. "This isn't the way to the cottage. What are you doing? Oh shit, no, no, no," Cosima shouts when she sees where they're headed.
"You said you were hot, I just want to help you cool down." Delphine runs them straight into the sprinklers that are currently watering the open field.
"Oh my god, Delphine!" Cosima yells as she gets drenched.
Delphine races around until she runs out of steam and drops to the ground as gently as possible, letting Cosima roll off her back. She looks over at the small, wet girl and starts cracking up. "Your glasses. Can you even see out of them?"
"No."
Delphine reaches her arm towards Cosima, gripping her wrist and gently tugging her towards her. She then removes Cosima's glasses and wipes them on her shirt before placing them back on her face. "Better?"
"Yeah, now I can see how soaking wet you are. That was a good choice of t-shirt for this endeavor," she waggles her eyebrows towards the white tee Delphine is wearing, now soaked all the way through.
"I'm wearing a bra at least."
"Too bad."
Delphine rolls her eyes, "Have you cooled down yet?"
"Actually, I'm feeling really overheated. I think I might be coming down with something."
Delphine sits up, concerned, and presses her hand to Cosima's forehead, "You don't feel warm."
"No? That's weird. I'm getting really hot," she emphasizes the last word seductively as she removes Delphine's hand from her forehead and begins kissing her way up from fingertips to knuckles to wrist, then up her arm to her shoulder before reaching her lips.
"You're impossible," Delphine grumbles between kisses.
"You're impossibly gorgeous when you're all wet," Cosima hums against her lips.
"Do you think you have enough energy to walk back to the cottage now?"
"I think I suddenly have the energy for a lot of things," Cosima whispers as she starts nibbling Delphine's ear.
"You're naughty. Come on, let's go dry off," Delphine stands and pulls a reluctant Cosima up with her.
They walk arm in arm to Cosima's place. Once inside, Cosima flops down on the couch.
"You're getting the sofa all wet," Delphine chastises.
"It'll dry. Come on, lay down with me," Cosima extends her hand.
"I need to get out of this wet shirt."
"Okay, don't let me stop you," Cosima eyes her suggestively.
"Cosima!" Delphine huffs. "Do you have a t-shirt I can borrow?"
"Nope, I don't think I have any clean shirts."
"Be quiet," Delphine goes into the bedroom and sees an open drawer stuffed with clothing. She rifles through and picks out a t-shirt, then peels hers off and puts Cosima's on. She walks back into the living room, "What do you think?"
Cosima looks up and starts laughing, "Where'd you find that half-shirt?"
"You're so little."
"I like it on you, I can see your cute tummy." She extends her hand again and Delphine takes it, allowing herself to be pulled onto the couch. Or, more specifically, on top of Cosima. They begin kissing and Cosima sinks her hands into Delphine's wet curls, eventually moving her hands down Delphine's body slowly until she reaches the exposed skin below the hem of her shirt. She strokes Delphine's side, causing the blonde to giggle and squirm uncontrollably. "Oh my god, you're so ticklish." Cosima then tickles her even more.
"Stop! Stop!" Delphine squeals, reaching for Cosima's hands and stilling her movements.
Cosima stares up into Delphine's face, "The sun really brings out your freckles. Like this one," she kisses her neck. "And the cute one right here," she kisses her nose. "And I can't forget about this one," she kisses the freckle right under her bottom lip.
Delphine grips and steadies Cosima's head, then kisses her lips. Cosima wraps her arms around Delphine's back, holding her close as they kiss. After several long minutes of making out, Cosima's lips still.
"Cosima?" Delphine asks, pulling back slightly.
Cosima's eyes are closed and she's exhaling little puffs of air through her nose. Delphine smiles at the peaceful girl underneath her. With Cosima's arms wrapped tightly around her, Delphine is loathe to move and risk waking her up. Instead, she rests her head on Cosima's chest and closes her eyes, listening to the gentle patter of the jockey's heart until sleep overtakes her as well.
A few hours later, Cosima wakes up feeling a heaviness on her chest. She opens her eyes to find a heap of blonde curls obscuring her vision and smiles as she gently runs her finger tips up and down Delphine's back.
Delphine moans as she stirs on top of Cosima, eventually turning to rest her chin on Cosima's chest.
"Hey," Cosima smiles.
"Hi," Delphine grins back.
"Looks like you fell asleep on me."
"Non, you fell asleep under me."
"You didn't get up, though."
"You had me in a vice grip and I didn't want to wake you."
"I'm sensing a pattern."
"Yeah, I must bore you, you're always dozing off."
"I am never bored by you. You just make me feel so safe and comfortable."
"I feel the same with you," Delphine leans forward and gives Cosima a kiss. "What time is it?"
Cosima holds up her watch, "11:00"
"That was a long nap. We should eat."
"I can make us some pasta."
"Okay, need help?"
"No, I got this, you just sit, relax." Cosima goes into the kitchen, returning 20 minutes later with two bowls, handing one to Delphine as she sits back down beside her on the couch.
"Merci!" Delphine takes a bite, "Mmm, this sauce is really good, did you you make it?"
"Yeah, with a little help from Paul Newman."
Delphine laughs, "My compliments to Mr. Newman. The pasta is good, too."
"Thanks. It's the one thing I can make besides salad."
"I still owe you a lesson in crepes."
"Yes, you do, I'm looking forward to learning from the best."
They finish and Cosima puts their dishes in the sink, when she returns to the couch, Delphine yawns. "Sorry, I don't know why I'm tired considering we had such a long nap."
"I'm actually tired, too, it's probably the heat."
Delphine stands up, "I'm gonna go home and get to bed. I'll see you after practice tomorrow." As she goes to give her a kiss, Cosima backs away.
"Stay."
"What?"
"Stay here."
"I can't."
"Why not? If we hadn't woken up when we did you might have slept here all night."
"Yes, but we did wake up and I should really go.
"Why? Is something bothering you?"
"No, nothing's bothering me. I'm just not ready to stay over."
Realization dawns on Cosima, "By 'stay over' do you mean have sex?"
Delphine nods, "I'm sorry."
"You don't have to apologize, Delphine. I realize this is all new to you and I'm totally willing to wait until you're ready."
"You are?"
"Of course. I mean it's not as though I haven't thought about it, a lot, but I would never pressure you to do something you didn't want to do."
"I know you wouldn't, I just don't want to disappoint you."
Cosima takes Delphine's hands, "You could never disappoint me."
Delphine kisses Cosima, "I should go."
"Or you could stay."
"Cosima, I just said-"
"I know what you said, but why can't you stay? We'll just sleep, no hanky panky. Come on, you were sleeping on top of me a little while ago. And we slept together that night in the hotel after watching Bridesmaids. I think we sleep pretty damn well together."
Delphine contemplates the offer as Cosima gives her the most adorably, hopeful look she's ever seen. "Okay."
"Okay? Is that a yes?"
Delphine nods, "Yes, I'll stay."
"Awesome," Cosima hugs Delphine. "Do you want to borrow something to wear to bed?"
"I can wear this shirt, but if you have an extra pair of boxers, that would work."
"Yeah, totally, one sec," Cosima runs into her room and comes back with boxer shorts. "Here ya go. And I also have a spare toothbrush in the bathroom."
"Thank you."
They change and get ready for bed.
"Which side do you want?"
"Which side do you prefer?"
"I usually sleep on the right side."
"Then I'll take the left."
They get in bed and lay with about two feet of space between them.
Delphine looks over at Cosima, who's laying on her side facing away from her, "Cosima?"
"Yeah."
"This is silly."
Cosima turns towards her, "What is?"
"You, all the way over there. Just because I'm not ready to have sex, doesn't mean I don't want to hold you."
"You want to hold me?" Cosima says dramatically.
Delphine raises an eyebrow at Cosima's tone, then turns around and lays down.
"Hey," Cosima scoots over towards Delphine, "I'm kidding. I want to be held."
"Forget it, I changed my mind."
"Are you seriously mad?"
"You made fun of me."
Cosima wraps her arms around Delphine, then buries her face in the crock of her neck, "I'm sorry."
"Cosima?"
"Mmhmm."
"If you wanted to hold me, you could have just asked."
Cosima pulls her head away from Delphine, "You were messing with me?"
"Maybe."
"Maybe," Cosima mocks. She starts tickling Delphine's side.
Delphine laughs and tries to grab Cosima's hands.
Instead, Cosima catches Delphine's hand, turns her back to the blonde, and drapes Delphine's arm over herself. "Oh, look, you're holding me. Just what you've wanted most in life."
"Oui, c'est vrai. There's nothing I've yearned for more in this world than to hold you."
"I know," Cosima turns her head towards Delphine and kisses her, then resettles against the pillow as Delphine pulls her snug against her. As they spoon, both of them fall asleep with the stupidest smiles on their faces.