With that final sentiment, Elesis set Ara's mind frantic and heart aflutter. On her way home she couldn't stop thinking about why the girl had brought that up. What was she implying? Perhaps she too was troubled romantically. Or could it be that Elesis had taken an interest in her? Just the thought made Ara's heart pound and pulse quicken.

What was happening to her? Every time she thought of the redhead, she felt her cheeks reddening and found herself wondering when she would see her again. Every time they touched, Ara could feel herself melting. When they had kissed, a wonderful soaring feeling had risen from deep in her stomach. She had never felt so connected with someone in her life, although they had only met a short while ago.

I didn't know that being in love did this sort of thing to people...

Ara let out an audible sigh. More importantly, what was she going to tell the other girl tomorrow? If she were to admit her true feelings, it would be confession of love. Ara didn't know if she was ready for that yet, but she had to say something. Besides, she had promised to be serious, and she felt strangely compelled to tell the truth. The one thing stopping her (besides her shyness around the other girl) was that she was afraid; Afraid of being rejected or despised. Not only would it make things embarrassing and awkward between them, but if she were rejected, it would hurt - Ara knew of that for sure- and the golden-eyed girl hated this kind of pain. Everything depended on which feeling was stronger, her fear or her love.


The sight of Elesis the next day was enough to rejuvenate her spirits after a night of unrest. Smiling slightly, Ara watched the girl's broad back as she walk down the crowded halls. The ebonette still wasn't sure what to do, but a sense of compassion welled up within her, blotting out the confusion of her thoughts and feelings. Suddenly, she realized that she must've been grinning like a fool. Ara struggled to cover the smile as she glanced around, hoping no one had noticed. When she looked back, the redhead had disappeared.


A/N: This was just a little chapter to characterize Ara more and build up some tension/suspense, I guess. They both clearly know what they feel towards the other, but are too dense to realize that their love might be reciprocated. But they've already kissed once so that's a good step forward.

I swear, Ara and Elesis need to get together and get a room already.