Chapter Twenty: Sated | Part 4
Eventually, though, Seerla began giggling, and Thirtyx found it contagious. They giggled against each other for a few fracs, nose to nose, before Seerla’s laughter rose to the point of her whole body trembling. She stumbled backwards toward a chair, but she missed and landed flat on the floor.
Somehow, it made her laugh harder. Thirtyx hastened to help her, but in his own giggle fit, it took him a while to extend his hand. It took Seerla even longer to accept it. When he finally pulled her to her feet, she folded herself into his arms and lay her head against his chest. For the first time, Thirtyx was glad she could hear how his heart pounded inside.
“I was so afraid I’d lose you when I couldn’t see you anymore,” she mumbled. “I kept hoping that, you being a Verith and all, you could feel how I felt… and that you’d still care.”
“I could feel it.” He gently stroked her back. He had absolutely no idea what he was doing, but somehow, it felt right. “I mean, I didn’t know, exactly, but… but I knew. And you’re not going to lose me. I’m right here.”
Another relieved, melting sigh. “Do Rhea and Benn know I’ve been helplessly obsessed with you for like… months, now?”
Thirtyx snorted. “I’m pretty sure they’ve taken bets on which of us would crack first. I think we tied, don’t you?”
“Pfah, Thirtyx, if you didn’t kiss me tonight, I might have started pulling my hair out.”
Thirtyx pulled back just enough to tilt her chin up and look her in the eye. “I’d still kiss you if you were bald.”
“Mmm, what a relief.”
They kissed again, briefly this time, and when Seerla pulled away, she took Thirtyx’s hands. “My parents only have power over me for a couple more months. Then, maybe we can try this thing. Actually be together. Even if our apprenticeships end up across the continent from each other, we can write letters, and we should make good enough coin that we can travel sometimes—especially if we trade off.”
Thirtyx flashed a wry smile. “That sounds like a lot of work. You sure I’m worth it?”
“I’ve never been more sure of anything. You are so strong. And kind. And brave. And for your sake, I’d like to punch everyone who can’t see that.” She rubbed her thumb in circles across his hand. “But for my sake, I’m glad I get you all to myself.”
“I’m nothing short of flabbergasted that I get you all to myself.”
“Oh, stop it,” Seerla giggled. She released Thirtyx’s hands and stepped away with a deep, bracing breath. “I should probably get back before they suspect where I’ve gone. Plus, I guess I have to celebrate with Nephrie.” She rubbed her temples. “She’ll probably make us all go to the lake. Then, I’ll get to see everyone’s shiny new seal forms from their shiny new pelts.”
Thirtyx’s eyebrows flew up. “New pelts? Is that why they’ve gone back to wearing them how they used to?”
“Ambrosia’s dad rounded up all the affected seniors and took them hunting over Solstice break. All the parents were furious—not with their precious children, of course, but at you for having been properly warded. So they all hunted down new pelts and acclimated to new bodies. If it’s any consolation, the process sounds grueling and uncomfortable.”
“Some small justice,” Thirtyx muttered. “Thanks for telling me.”
“Of course. I meant what I said about always being there for you.”
The giddy feelings rose in Thirtyx’s chest again. “I know. And I appreciate it more than you can imagine.”
Calley Jones 