They ended up spending some more time in the mall. They were passing an accessory shop when Jade stopped. Something caught her eye—a set of bracelets displayed in the window. It wasn't just any set but a stunning ensemble of multiple bracelets, each uniquely crafted yet harmoniously intertwined. The set featured a combination of rich, earthy leather and vibrant beads, all woven together to create a striking visual tapestry.

The bracelets exuded a bohemian charm, their earthy leather bands exuding a rugged, timeless appeal. Interspersed among the leather were beads of various sizes and shapes, their colors a captivating blend of deep greens and rich reds. Some beads were smooth and glossy, reflecting the sunlight with a subtle sheen, while others had a matte finish, adding an intriguing texture to the ensemble.

One bracelet, in particular, stood out—a slender leather band adorned with a single, intricate bead of jade-green, its surface etched with delicate, swirling patterns. Another bracelet featured a series of crimson beads, their fiery hue contrasting beautifully against the dark leather backdrop. There were also tiny charms interspersed among the beads—little silver leaves and ornate brass beads that added an extra layer of elegance and whimsy.

Together, these bracelets formed a captivating mosaic of color and texture, each piece contributing to the overall allure. It was as if the set had been designed to tell a story, one of nature's beauty and the rich, vibrant hues of life itself. She couldn't help but feel drawn to it, her heart yearning to wrap the beautiful set around her wrist and make it her own.

In the league, she was never allowed to wear accessories since they would get in the way of her training. Even her mother avoided over-accessorizing when there was no need for it.

But she remembered some of the higher-ranking women. They always wore their accessories as a sign of pride. They've earned the right to wear them. Their skill is high enough not to get hindered by them.

She snapped out of her memories as Drake gently shook her shoulder to get her attention. Jade turned to look at him.

"Do you like the bracelet?" He asked with a knowing smile.

She hesitated for a moment. She indeed likes them, but wouldn't they be a hindrance? She was about to sign no, but Drake grabbed her hand and pulled her into the shop.

"Let's get it." He said in a soft tone.

It turned out that the bracelet was a part of a set. It's one of those sets for couples. It was a handmade piece, and the owner refused to sell them separately since he didn't want to ruin the set.

Jade wanted to tell Drake that they could leave, but Drake bought them. He then gave her both and told her she could give it to someone special when she finds them.

But to his surprise, Jade took out the bracelet and put it on his wrist. 'You are my brother.' You are special to me, went unsaid between them. She smiled, but Drake couldn't help but return it.

Neither of them was open with their affection most of the time, but they were finally accepting each other. Drake gave her a hair ruffle, which made her pout, and they left the store.

Neither of them paid any mind to others giving them looks that evening. No one brought up the matching bracelets, and they didn't give any answers.

Jade only took them off for patrol. Putting them in her locker so she wouldn't lose or damage them. They could be a hindrance in the field. After all

To her, the bracelets were more than an accessory. To her, wearing them was a sign that she was safe. That she didn't have to worry about getting randomly attacked or constantly being in danger. She could have a peaceful life. She didn't have to be a weapon.

As soon as she was back from patrol, she took a shower and put them back on. She was heading up when she saw Drake working behind the computer in the cave. She approached him, and to her delight, he was also wearing his pair. When she was close enough, she made enough noise to make her presence known.

"Did you need something?" Drake asked. He looked exhausted.

'Can I help?' She signed. She tried to look at the monitor, but it was mostly programs running and empty report templates.

"No. I have to finish the reports for tomorrow's board meeting. I should be done in an hour." Drake said.

'Tea?' She signed.

"Sure," Drake said with a smile.

It wouldn't do him good to have coffee when he needed to sleep, but a cup of chamomile tea should help him with getting a good rest. Jade headed up to the kitchenette in the cave. It was mostly a place to grab some drinks and a quick snack. There wasn't a fridge there due to Pennyworth's protest that they should all spend more time inside the actual manor.

Still, having a quick drink was too much of a convenience for them not to have it there. She quickly filled the electric kettle and went to find the tea bags. It took a bit of searching, but she found it and put it in Drake's mug.

The water soon started boiling, so he poured it into the mug and brought it to Drake. She also grabbed his favorite protein bar for him to snack on. She set them beside him, and after a quick goodnight, she headed upstairs.

Bastet was at the vet's tonight. She had an upset stomach, and they wanted to monitor her overnight. It was strange to be without her. She had become so used to her presence in a short time. They were together most of the time, and she was beginning to teach her some small tricks.

Jade reached her room, and as soon as her hand touched the handle, she knew something was wrong. Her senses were all alert. She opened her door to see someone standing in the shadow.