10 YEARS AGO
It doesn’t feel right. But it was easy enough. Go in, pick it up, and leave. Emerald hues glanced around as she landed on the coordinates that her current boss had given her. Things had been a bit rocky for her. Her parents had kicked her out though she’s grateful to them for that.
The Epicanthix had learned so much since then.
She was still naïve though.
Her parents, was more than happy to give her a ship to help her do some odds n ends job. Evelyn’s pilot skills hasn’t gone unnoticed for those that needed quick in and out.
And that’s what she was here for. One problem. She was alone. So her footing for quick in and out, wouldn’t be fast so to speak. Wore only Black cargo pants, white tank top and a dark green leather jacket, she was obviously not suited to take on to fight.
Once she made sure that her ship was good, landed, and everything was clear, she got up from her chair and opened the cockpit. A small package. Some kind of weapon or something. Technology?
Who cares. This brought good credits and she could use it. She used her datapad to find the coordinates and stepped out. Looked around, she followed the map.
Then it got more… quiet. She was increasingly getting nervous. Everything flared up and screamed for her to run. Hid behind a tree, she peeked around. She wasn’t made for stealthy either, her white hair was bright. Then she found the building.
They had GUARDS situated outside. What.
*‘Okay. That’s a no.’ * She’s a pilot. Not a fighter. Not a stealthy person. None of those.
She needed to get out. Shoved the datapad to inner jacket pocket, she quickly started to run back to her ship.
The ship landing hadn’t gone unnoticed. Nor had the woman, carefully walking around and hiding her presence. She retreated soon enough yet… today was supposed to be a drop off to one of the local dealers who’d requested the grenades.
They really only sent one person? It was barely even worth the tip off they’d recieved about someone coming in for them.
Cole had nudged Graham, the Farrow brothers making their way for the ship quietly. Carefully. It didn’t need to be a big deal as long as she cooperated afterall.
Once she was on board, the pair got on behind her. Graham went first. While Cole was an ace shot and knew how to position himself in combatative situations, at only sixteen the younger Farrow was far from being able to handle his own in melee.
Graham however had no concerns with that. He made his way toward the cockpit of the shuttle, making a point of no longer being quiet as he approached her. The woman was cornered now. He grinned, leaning on the doorway.
“Well. Hi there.”
Cole was a few steps behind, rifle in hand just in case she turned out to be some crazy schutta. He watched with a passive expression. It was what he’d been taught. Show the enemy nothing. If they had nothing to work with, they’d have nothing over him.
Slid into the cockpit quickly, she reached over to start-
‘Well. Hi there.“
Her head whipped around and she saw a late teens or even early twenties male. Around her age. Then the male behind him, also possibly late teens, had a rifle in his hand. Aimed right for her. Her jaw tighten as she held her hands up.
"I’m just a pilot.”
Her heart was pounding against her chest.
Graham shifted back slightly, looking toward Cole.
Cole glanced up to him, refocussing on the woman again a moment later. Even as he lowered the rifle he didn’t unclick the safety. Nor did his gaze move away from hers, the passive almost blank stare set on her like a trap about to spring.
It was him that spoke next.
“Who do you work for?”
The words were even, enunciated clearly despite the slight space set between them. Graham remained beside the doorway though no longer quite blocked it, though a boyish grin remained on his face, juxtaposition in comparison to the other. He could have been watching a holo-vid or chatting with friends with an expression like that, yet he was acting as a barrier. One that bore blades on his person visibly.
Evelyn felt her let out a sudden exhale. She didn’t know she was holding her breath this whole time. Kriff. Though, despite obviously possibly going to die, she remained calm. Her facial expression didn’t show much fear.
Her heart was screaming otherwise.
Her hands lowered to her sides.
“Ons'tein. Keith Ons'tein.”
Emerald hues glanced at the men up and down. She should’ve listened to her father and mother about picking up a weapon. But it might be could be a possibly saving grace for her.
“Will that be all? He may just had sent me to the wrong coordinates or something.”
Wait. That can’t be right. Evelyn always checked her stuff. Double. Triple. It was one of the things she valued about her piloting.
What the kriff was going on!?
“Oooh she got karked over.” Graham cooed, his tone leaning into mocking, “Let me guess, just a clean go in, grab the box and head out. Don’t ask questions? Classic kriff the new kid hook.”
Cole didn’t react, though internally wanting to roll his eyes. Intensely. It was a good job one of them took things seriously. Kriff.
“Either way, where is Ons'tein? Coordinates or port name will do.” The icy gaze didn’t waver in it’s watch over her as she lowered her hands. He couldn’t see a weapon but it didn’t mean there wasn’t one. Hidden holsters were plentiful and even if she didn’t have one on her, it didn’t mean there wasn’t some trap somewhere or a knife strapped underneath a control panel.
Graham did roll his eyes, looking to Evelyn as if for support. If he was concerned by her in any regard, he didn’t show it. Not that he was. While he could tell Cole was still looking for weapons, it was obvious from how she was acting with them that she wasn’t placating them in anyway while she grabbed for something. He’d be surprised if she did.
Graham hoped not, she was quite cute. Be a shame to ruin that.
Evelyn felt her jaw tightened and her stare to Graham hardened as he mocked her.
Kriff. He wasn’t wrong.
Kriff that jerk. All of them.
“Yes. That’s exactly what he did.” She shifted uncomfortably at the thought.
Then to the male with those icy hues. Kriff. He’s scarier than the other one. She much rather be questioned by the other one than him.
“He’s in Coronet City. I’m to send him a picture when I grabbed whatever he wanted and he’ll send me the coordinates.”
She stood up straight as she reached for her inner pocket of her jacket- At the corner of her eye the silver weapon moved and was aiming at her. Again.
She rose her hands, “Kriff! Calm down! I was just getting my datapad. You can get it yourself if you want.” Her breathing quickened and she shut that down fast. Slow breathing. She wasn’t going to show that she was scared.
Despite being sort of new with a gun aiming at her, the martial arts all those years with her combative parents helped steady her breathing.
Cole paused. It was a bit extreme but safer. He kept Graham in his line of sight for the few steps it was possible to before having to rely that his brother would give warning to any surprise threats.
He pulled her jacket open, careful to not actually directly touch the woman and drew out the data pad before returning the way he came. Cole didn’t turn his back on her fully, retreating from the room.
“Coronet City. That matches what we got told.” Graham spoke once Cole was on the other side of the doorway. “Wasn’t your boss but you got tipped off on girlie.”
Cole glanced over the slate before pocketing himself.
“Anything else you’d like to share?”
Her body stiffened when the colder male was the one that walked to her. She should’ve asked the kinder one to get it instead. She moved back slightly without thinking. The consoles were there to have it be almost unnoticeable. She couldn’t look at Cole in the eye so she glanced away.
Her emerald hues shifted down to the floor in disappointment at the tipped off. Evelyn hated being called girlie and wanted to say something but if in the presence of two beings that could kill you easily, it’s best to keep things to yourself.
When they asked if there was anything she wanted to share, bunch of different thoughts flew through her mind. She wanted her datapad back. There was more in there then just the job she took. No. They can keep it. Not worth her life.
She also wanted revenge on Keith but it was her fault for being this dense.
Her throat caught in fear. Would they let her go? Or would she be killed? Her arms crossed to hide the slight trembling. She looked back up at the two humans.
“What else can I share to keep my life? I do not know that much. I-I can offer my piloting services to help you get him.” She tilted her head at the console of her assault ship.
“Were okay, thanks.” Graham answered, looking to Cole and raising an eyebrow.
Cole nodded, looking back toward Evelyn, “You can go. Just make sure you’re never seen here again.” It was spoken almost exactly like everything else hed said. Passive, blank. Other than a slight edge. A weight to his tone that deepened his voice slightly, a harshness that left no room for negotiation.
Then he started to leave the craft.
Graham waited a moment, “I’d recommend you switch bosses too. If you’d have done what he said you wouldn’t be flying away right now.” He smiled once more, though it held far less warmth than the others had. With that, he followed his brother.
It wasn’t unusual that people would try and swipe smaller shipments. It wasn’t something that they could let slide without some kind of compensation either. Their father would likely be quite interested in this, though itd have to wait until the actual trade had occurred. They rejoined the rest of the group as if nothing had happened.
The hybrid got the hint. The older male didn’t leave as quickly as the other did and gave her a more direct idea of what could’ve happened. Evelyn winced slightly but straightened her face.
‘You bet your life, I will ditch Keith.’ Kept those thoughts to herself, she watched them leave.
Evelyn slowly exhaled in relief when they stepped out of her ship. She was more than happy to never be seen here again or even remotely come by here again.
Or take up stupid jobs.
Sat back down in her chair, she started up the ship as the door started to close and she left the territory after leaving a message to Keith on her comm that she’s abandoning the job and he could suck it.
Evelyn rubbed her face. Her crew just finished patrolling. She didn’t feel like going to the store to get some more wine.
So the bar would have to do. Then she could go home and retire for the night. Evelyn was constantly checking her comms and made sure her crew had all walked home.
She was also checking for other things. With the reports of the Ethereal realm rapidly coming in, there was something that concerned Evelyn.
It was dangerous for ships.
And yet, they are to go. This unnerved her. Once she was in the bar, she was wearing her AEF navy blue jumpsuit that usually goes under her flight suit. That suit stayed at the base. Her hair was in a braid.
Silently, she made over to the bar, “Sunberry Wine.” The bartender nodded and popped the cork as he tenderly poured it into the glass. Evelyn thanked him, paid, and turned to look around.
Her heart jumped.
Her favorite color was blue and there was only one pair of blues in this entire galaxy that actually scared her.
His. She looked up the pair of them and the territory when she bought a new datapad ten years ago and she had been so grateful to get out alive.
It was him. She’s certain. He looked more beaten up and scarred now than he was 10 or so years ago. She was sure being a karkin’ son of a karkin’ crime lord would mean that there’s dangers and risks. No one really gets out of that looking pretty.
She paused for a moment. Many thoughts ran over her head. Emerald hues glanced around and she doesn’t see a male that resembled to the man he was with all those years ago.
Her clan. He was in the citadel. Should she- She needed to be sure. Approached at the table, the tanned female glanced at him. He was armed. Not unusual but it made her weary. His hands were more scarred.
“May I sit down?”
Cole looked up, seeing her approach before she even spoke. He had the same expression as before, a carefully metered blankness that didn’t betray what was going on beneath the surface.
He knew that face.
Where from? Cole couldn’t pin exactly. Not off the top of his head. But it was a long time ago either way. He shifted, lowering the data pad. Was this going to lead to a fight? Black mail? Vengeance? He didn’t think they’d come to blows, usually he remembered those better, but it was always hard to judge. Still, she asked politely enough. For some reason she didn’t look much older at all. Probably one of the longer lived near Humans. There were a few species of them after all.
He gestured to the opposing seat, watching her carefully though maybe not as intensely as she’d remember from years past. “Sure.”
She was Arconan at least. If she believed he was in the group peaceably, itd reduce the chances of a conflict here.
Evelyn gave him a small nod before she sat down. Carefully, she took a sip of her wine before placed it on the table. She doesn’t show emotions as her face was stoic. Something she had learned to develop the last decade.
“What are you doing here?”
Direct and straight the point, Evelyn doesn’t mess around. Sharp eyes watched him for any movements or hints.
It didn’t help he had a karkin’ rifle on the table.
Well. As long he doesn’t go for any of his weapons.
Well that wasn’t helpful in identification but at least she didn’t kark around with what her point was. Cole made a point of remaining quite still. He could reach a weapon before she could, unless she went for his rifle on the table, but it was best to remain still and give her the benefit of thinking he wasn’t likely to. No shifting toward anything.
“I work here. On the Voidbreaker II specifically.”
He’d jibe at if the crew were allowed in the Citadel but he wasn’t sure what encounter they’d shared yet to make jokes or insults. Best kept clinical for now.
Her eyes doesn’t remove away from him. There was tension building.
He’s part of the Clan? Was he here as an undercover? Or did he change? Though she can’t judge. She had changed when she joined the military and left that life behind.
Did he leave his behind?
“And do they know of your past?” Her voice was soft and low, to keep others from listening. Only Cole would be able to hear her.
“The ones who need to know do. Not that it’s particularly relevant anymore, if you’ve been paying much attention to that part of the galaxy.” Cole noted, more testing to see how much she’d know of her own attention. Though he doubted it somehow.
“Who are you exactly? I’m sure we have met but I can’t really place where.”
“I haven’t paid attention since I left. Did all I can to forget those blue eyes of yours, Farrow.” She answered honestly.
“We have, once. About a decade or so ago. Took a-“ she grimaced, finally a first expression from her, “a really dumb job. You and another male, older? Graham if I remember right. He was kinder, if not cuter.”
Her face changed over to calm and stillness. “You both jumped into my ship before I can take off. The guy I was working for at the time was Ons’tein.”
Cole was tense. More so than before. Right. He.. vaguely remembered that.
It hadn’t been violent.
“I’m amazed I had such a long term impact considering all we did was talk. Or did Ons'tein punish you for getting caught or something?” He was trying to think of why that would stick to memory for ten years. It hadn’t been a big deal.
“Graham was older, yes.”
He hoped she’d understand the meaning.
“Mmm. I wouldn’t say long term effects. I completely forgot about you until now. Just saw you and the memory came back. I was concerned for my Clan and your intentions.”
The corner of her lips curved into a smirk. “Talk? You aimed your blaster at me. First time for me too.” She crossed her arms and leaned back.
“It wasn’t just that. You were cold. Calculating. Would spook a young idiot down the core. Especially for one who thought she was going to die.”
She paused for a moment when he brought up the past tense. Was.
“My condolences.”
She sighed as she reached to the stem of her wine glass and took a sip, “if you want to know, yes, Ons’tein attempted to punish me but he couldn’t catch me. I was a decent pilot then.”
He tilted his head, acqueising to the point. He’d known since he joined that any that knew him from those days would find his new place.. odd.
“You could have been a threat. I’d hope you understand now but we could have been walking in on anyone. Being prepared to deal with a threat isn’t too unusual. I’m glad you weren’t punished. If I remember correctly it was a stupid thing he asked to you to do. I’m surprised he thought it would work.” Cole shook his head slightly, not bothering to achknowledge the condolences. It was nothing more than a polite phrase anyway. He thoroughly doubted she actually cared that Graham was dead.
“Yes. I’m aware of that now. I do not blame you two and I would’ve done the same if anyone walks on the base and I do not recognize them,” Evelyn spoke coolly.
“As for what he was thinking, I’m not quite sure. Was there any distractions? Bait? Did he use my datapad as a tracking beacon? I’ve been replying that day over and over my head for a few days. Then he got taken out and I stopped caring.”
A small shrug.
She remembered something, “Ah. I’m Evelyn Wyvern, Captain of the Siren Squad.”
Cole nodded slightly.
“He wanted our gear. I wouldn’t waste time wondering why, it’s good that you haven’t.” He raised his glass to his lips, drinking as she introduced herself and nodding.
It felt right to do the same in return even if she likely knew.
“Cole Farrow, agent on the Voidbreaker II. If you’re worried I’m here for other interests, I’ll reassure you that there’d be little point in me doing so. It’d counterintuitive for me.”
Evelyn held up a hand when he brought up about her being worried, “No need, Farrow. I’ve changed. I’ll just have to hope you did too.”
Emerald hues watched him carefully.
How odd.
10 years ago, she was terrified and unnerved for few days after meeting them. Now? She felt safe. Secured.
Funny how growing up can do that to someone.
“I’ve grown up.” He was still a teenager back then. Though many of the lessons had already been learnt at that point he was still getting used to living them. Cole hadn’t been doing jobs for all that long. Four years or so.
He wished he remembered Evelyn enough to comment on how she’d done the same. It was a slightly odd moment as he scrambled for something. She looked.. a little older.
Less afraid.
“You seem more confident from what I remember.”
He was partially still awaiting some kind of attack, watching her carefully. There were no warning signs however. Cole sipped his drink again.
A small smile broke through before it disappeared.
“I’ve also grown up. Experience and terror can really straighten someone up. That day, I’ve been more careful with my jobs since then. Ended up in the Arcona military not long after and met-” She stopped.
There was no need to spill her life story to him.
And she didn’t want to continue. Not to a stranger.
“At least it was useful.” Cole commented.
She stopped early. Met.. someone. The way she cut off suggested that something bad had happened in regards to that person. He didn’t particularly care to know. Though he could actually relax. If she was slipping like that in front of him she was unlikely to attack.
He shifted how he was into a more comfortable position, moving from the straight posture to one that let him properly rest on the back of the chair.
She doesn’t see you as a threat. Oh don’t we just wonder why…
Cole was not appreciative of his own internal dialogue, jaw tensing for a moment.
“I was still in my group till recently. We were… taken out to put it simply. I ended up here through a connection. And here I am.”
“Mmm. It was.”
Sharp eyes noticed the slight muscle tightened in his jaw. She leaned back in her chair to copy the posture. No need for extra tension. Though his weapon on the table does bother her.
Emerald hues kept an eye on him and her surroundings. She looked over to the bar for a moment and there was no one familiar she noticed here at the moment.
Evelyn listened as she glanced back to him. Unsure how to respond. Group like that needed to be taken down but it was his home. She’s certain of it. If he was part of it 10 years ago and if it was recent, there was a possibility it was his entire life.
If that was her squad that was wiped out like how her wife was-
“That’s… unfortunate. And difficult, I’m sure.”
She exhaled sharply, restrained to roll her eyes. “If my mother was here, she would mention that everything happens for a reason. Or some kis- stuff like that.”
“And it’d mean nothing really. It’s a false comfort given when there’s nothing else to say.” Cole shrugged, “I appreciate the thought but I doubt you really feel any remorse over it. I don’t blame you for it. I wouldn’t either in your shoes.”
He offered a slight smile, though it was bitter and held no warmth. He still seemed similar enough in comparison to before.
“Yes and no.”
Evelyn watched him for a moment before continuing, “yes, I don’t feel remorse. No to false comfort. Been in military for ten years.” Without her noticing, her left thumb went over to stroke the ring finger of her left hand as of to touch a band that wasn’t there.
One stroke. That’s all it took for her to acknowledge what she did. She removed her hand from the table and have her arm rested on her lap.
“You would know the familiar saying, Lost a lot of good people. That kind of thing. Now, if we were still enemies? You’re right. I wouldn’t care.”
Her right hand grasped the wine glass, “but you are part of Arcona and losing people is never easy.” She took a sip and set the glass down.
“So I’m trying to show a bit of empathy by understanding loss of friends and family.” Then a small bitter smile, “Aketa always complained I don’t do well with empathy.”
Cole watched, considering it.
“I’m surprised all it takes is an affiliation change, though I’m not displeased. It’s all too easy to have enemies and I am here to stay. I’m not entirely sure I’m as different as you’d like me to be but I’m not here to cause trouble.”
Aketa. Bit of a random name drop.
Was.. that it? He didn’t want to just tell her to go away, it was too easy to make enemies and it wouldn’t be hard with a woman who’d apparently spent days after their last meeting afraid of him. Which.. was something he found still brought him some amusement but meant little good in terms of long term relations now. Would she excuse herself or did she have.. more to say?
The silence was awkward.
“Mm.”
‘We’ll have to see about that.’
Evelyn finished her drink and stood up.
“Have a good night, Farrow.”
Nothing more to say and nothing more to do as she handed the empty glass back to the bartender and thanked him. It was time to head home.
“Wyvern.” Cole chimed back, watching her for a moment as she got up before focussing on his glass again.
Well. That had been unexpected.
He ended up remaining at the bar longer than intended. A few more drinks deeper. He was intending on staying at the Citadel or the Voidbreaker, neither of which he couldn’t get to without transport so it was safe enough to sit and imbibe a little.
Sofila took a bit longer than she would like to finally find the bar. Might’ve gotten lost. For a small bit.
Entered into the establishment, she grinned at seeing Cole. She waved at him enthusiastically. She pointed at the bar to let him know where she was going first.
The Mirialan quickly made her way to the bartender first, “Hi! Um. Pink Nebula to start with, please.”
Once she had a drink, she quickly sat down by Cole. “Hey!” She took a sip.
“So what you been up to today?”
Cole had a fairly fresh drink resting on his knee, reading his data pad again as usual when she’d entered. He was a bit tipsy from the additional drinks he’d had, admittedly but Sagitta’s presence made that a touch more comfortable. He’d prefer it if they weren’t in public but.. this was enough.
He smiled at her slightly, “Nothing much. This.” He gestured to the datapad before clicking it off. “Yourself?”
Sofila was surprised at the slight smile but she returned it with ease. Her eyebrow rose when he clicked off the datapad.
“Ooh, secrets.” She teased as she took a sip.
“Ah. Just helped out at the orphanage for a bit. Got to read the first Adventures of Sagitta book ever. I completely forgot what it was about. It had been years.”
She grimaced, “I’m a bit disappointed in myself for not noticing some of the darker elements of it but if I didn’t recognize it when I was a kid, maybe they won’t too. Hopefully. Am I doing this right?” She laughed softly.
“So long as you didn’t sit there and point them out, I’d assume likely not. Some might. Most won’t. If the orphanage thought it was inappropriate they’d have told you to stop.” Cole pointed out.
He sighed slightly, “Not really. Just reading some reports. Older ones. They’re publicly accessible.”
“Oh no! I continued. And that’s a good point. I would’ve been stopped.” She let out a relieved sigh. His logical thinking was what she needed. “Or at least informed to pick a different book for our next storytelling night.” Sofila grinned.
She was coming to terms that she can’t help everyone but she does where she can. One little thing at a time.
“Ah. Older reports?” She sounded inquisitive. “I mean don’t have to talk about it if you don’t of course,” Sofila rapidly added.
“No it’s fine. It’s just not very enjoyable material in comparison. I’m reading up on the Brotherhood’s previous encounters with the Children of Mortis. How they fight, general mindset and tactics to what they tend to utilise weaponry wise beyond just the crystal abominations they create. Not very.. appeasing conversationally typically.” Cole shrugged, adding on a moment after, “Nor is it polite to read something when someone is sitting talking to you.”
It was something he tried to avoid doing when he was actually being present. Even before when Graham would often take the lead socially, he’d remain engaged in what was going on.
He leant back into his seat, “I’m glad they didn’t ask. You’re quite passionate about those books. I’m assuming its nice to have an excuse to read them again?”
“Ah- yea. Children of Mortis.” She slightly leaned back in her chair. Maybe she should do the same. But ugh, every time she tried to read the reports, her brain goes for really small shiny things. “I don’t think it’s…” She paused for a moment. “Well, might be difficult to carry on a conversation about them at the moment when the tension is so high but doesn’t talking about what you are going to fight help ease the transition when you do fight them? Kind of know your enemy thing? But I understand. Can be quite the conversation stopper.”
She took another few sips. The Mirialan turned to look at him with a beaming grin when he brought up the books.
“Yea! It has been awhile. Feels pretty good to have a refresher actually. It brought back good memories with my family. Not to mention, I learned something knew. There’s always a - ah. Kriff. What was the word.” She pondered for a bit.
Her eyes light up, “Moral! That’s the one. So, there’s always a reason behind the story or moral. It was good to remember it.” With a small grin, she nudged Cole’s arm a bit with hers. “I can always read to us before bed.”
“It helps me. Knowing tactics and such is always important, knowing motives less so but thats an individuals preference for anything beyond the necessities.”
Cole took a decent drink from his glass as she spoke. Conversations with Sagitta… Sofila? They were easier. Even if he was still somewhat struggling which name to use for her. It felt strange to ask, she’d stated that she wanted to reclaim it yet.. it was odd.
“I’m good, I believe.” Cole chuckled slightly, waving a hand. “I don’t mind if you do for your own interests but I’m not.. fictions aren’t really my thing i think.”
It was enjoyable enough to listen to her because it was listening to her. But every night going through a kids book.. even one with stuff laid in for adults and morals and what not he just.. didn’t feel it was up his street.
“I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself.” He wrapped up with, a little cautious that she’d be disappointed.
“True. What was the saying, what ever floats your boat?” Then she made a face. “Blech. Okay. I dislike that saying. Seems a bit disrespectful to other people interests or way of doing things.” She shook her head to remove that saying from her mind as she took few more sips.
Sofila watched him wave his hand and chuckled a bit with a grin on her face. “Fair enough! Watching a movie or just us talking till we fall asleep is perfect for me anyways. Time for a refill!” She got up and held the empty glass in her hand. “Would you like me to get you something?”
“..how would it be disrespectful?” Cole looked a touch confused but she breezed past it.
He looked into his glass, considering it. Cole was aware he was about at his limit, deeming one more was probably fine. He wouldn’t be opposed to taking a bottle back up with them, wherever they went after this. So after a moment he nodded, requesting the same as what he had in his glass currently.
Once she left to go get the drinks, he tipped back the rest to finish the glass before he was juggling two drinks.
Once she got their refills, she returned and slid into her seat while handing Cole’s his drink. “Here you go, handsome.” She winked at him.
“It’s the delivery. I was thinking about your question at the bar!” She laughed softly then sighed. “Few people have said whatever floats your boat to me and sometimes, it’s not … in a tone that you would like to hear,” muttered Sofila under her breath as she took another sip.
“No matter. Not worth to waste my energy on them. Most of the time they get punched by me later anyways.” She glanced down at her hand and squeezed her hands few time, remembering the stings it felt when the hit made contact.
“Maybe I am a bit impuslvie,” Sofila snorted softly at the random thought as she took another sip.
Ah so the issue was how it was said more than words specifically. That made sense. Hed had the phrased used on him before in that manner but it was.. definitely the tone that had been aggravating rather than anything else. Never mind the fact it was some random kid trying to look hard by being a bit edgy. That one hadn’t lasted long before they got killed in a mission they weren’t ready for but insisted on joining.
“Maybe but you’re better about it when its important.” He commented, voice a little lower to not just announce that to everyone. “Though I can’t say much. Sometimes you have to make a point on how you’ll let people act toward you.”
He glanced down towards his knuckles, hand wrapped around the glass shed brought back. The scars on his knuckles were.. layered. He doubted the first ones he got were there anymore but they certainly didn’t need to be all things considered. At least his palm wasn’t as bad.
“Ah. Well-” She stopped for a moment when she glanced over to him and noticed he was looking down at his hands. She reached over with hers and placed it on top on one of his and gave it a small squeeze. Then she gently let go when it occurred to her she just tried to hold his hand in public. Withdrew her arm to her side, she murmured a small sorry before moving on.
“Anyways, ah. Never thought if I’m better about it. Huh.” She smiled as she propped her elbow on the table. The side of her head rested on her hand as she looked at Cole. “Though, I have to admit. Being impulsive does have it’s good moments.” Then her voice got a bit quieter for Cole, “It was my impulsiveness that somehow got you out of your clothes at the hotel.” She gave a small smirk before taking few more sips and sighing contently.
“And this is going to be… ah. Out of the blue. Not related to this topic, blue. Really out of the blue but ah, you know me by now. I’ll stop.” She paused for a moment before looking out at the bar and their surroundings as if just normally people watching. “You really taught me to slow down, Cole. Made me pay attention to the world some more. It’s… weird.” She waved her hand. The thought was random but it was something she noticed. Everywhere she went, she was always on the move. Everything needed to be quick. Fast. Done. But every time she was with Cole? She was calmer and if not a bit more focused. Still pretty kriffin’ reckless, but better.
And that was cheesy as kriff. Change the topic.
“I have training tomorrow, so I might be gone most of the day. Just… letting you know.”
As she’d already felt many times, his hand was rough. Calloused and scarred, enough so that it was detectable noticeably even just with touch. The hand had shifted slightly, turning but stopped when as quickly as she’d reached out, Sofila had drawn away. Cole didn’t mind too much. They were in public. Probably for the best.
He sipped his drink again as she spoke listening though it ended up resting on his thigh by the end. It.. the words left a fuzzy feeling in the pit of stomach. Cole wasn’t sure how to really.. account for it. It wasn’t pride exactly. It was just a nice feeling. Good that he could make her feel that way. Or at least he hoped it was a good thing. It sounded like it.
Not that Cole had any idea how to respond to the notion. Espeically when she moved on so quickly. Was she embarrassed? Dammit why were people so difficult.
Cole shifted slightly, “I’m sure you’ll enjoy yourself. I’ll likely be training as well. Or reading.”
The quiet felt awkward. Fill in on day?
“I met someone earlier. We were on opposite sides, though admittedly very briefly, it now seems like we’re on the same one. She wanted to make sure my affiliations were correct. It was an interesting encounter.
Sofila nodded, it would be like Cole though she sort of wishes he would go out more. One step at a time.
The Mirialan had to remind herself how when she gave him time and patience, he was more open and she would need to continue to do so.
“Oh?” Her curiosity was piqued. “Opposite sides, you mean in your past life before you joined Clan Arcona? How did you two meet? Were you able to convince her? I guess you did if you’re here and not-” She quickly looked at him up and down, “hurt.”
“Well it was here, I doubt even if it went poorly it would have come to blows.” Cole shrugged, emptying his glass before placing it down. As he shifted to do so, it felt odd.
Mm. Yeah that was probably a bit close to the line. Kriff.
“She was put on a job to pick up some supplies. In reality, she was stealing them from us doing a drop off. We had a tip off about a potential attempt and by the time me and Graham saw her ship she’d already realised it wasn’t what she signed up for and was leaving. We… talked. I probably threatened her. Definitely had her at gun point. No one was hurt though and she left once we had the information we wanted from her. It seems I scared her a bit, at the time at least. Hence the concern on her part.” He spoke quite non-chalantly about it. It wasn’t really a big deal to him but it was the most significant thing that had occured in the day for him other than reading debriefings and overviews. It had been odd but it wasn’t entirely unexpected. Maybe a little this close to him coming across people who had wanted him dead for his actions before.
Before. Somehow, Cole realsied, he really perferred that to the idea of a past life. Yes it was all behind him but it wasn’t by choice. It was a minor change of words but it felt important. Not that he knew how to bring it up. Maybe a different time. His eyes glanced across the room. Yeah. A different time.
“Ah, that soon ago? Huh.” She wonder if anyone she passed was the one that he was talking about. While she listened to him, she finished up her drink. Her eyebrow rose when he mentioned about ‘probably’ threatened her. Has he threatened so much it came a habit and naturally for him? Made sense from what she had been learning about his past.
Thank kriff he never threatened her. That would be an issue.
Gun point. That would be a problem for Sofila for opposite reasons. Having been shot few times, seeing a gun doesn’t really scare her anymore but it certainly spikes her adrenaline. After all, if you don’t have that rush to survive with a weapon was aiming at you, something was wrong.
“That made sense. The concern I mean. If someone that scared me in my past life or kriff, if any of my brothers except Castor became part of Clan Arcona… I’ve… would intervene. Or do something much worse.”
She tapped her fingers on the table, “Be right back.” Slid out, the Mirialan had made her way to the bar once again. This time she came back with the bottle. “Refill?” She asked while pouring herself a glass and waited for his response.
Cole nodded slightly, “She offered her condolences. Genuinely apparently though I still doubt it. Even if we’re on the same team now I’d be… shocked for someone to actually give a kriff about the group being gone.”
She got up.
He shook his head, “No. I might take a bottle up with us but for now, I think I’ve had enough. Water would be welcome.”
Sofila didn’t react much to what he said. He wondered if that meant anything but decided to not think too hard on it.
Sofila nodded as she went to the bar quickly and got the water. At least she didn’t sit down again. She brought back water for Cole and slid by him. “We can take this bottle instead.” She winked then added, “I’m fine with more though. I’m… being careful after what happened last time I got drunk the first time but having more up in the room sounds nice.”
She took few sips and inhale as the burn went down her throat.
“Well. What were we - ah yea. People are weird. I think we can account for that.” Sofila, on the other hand, was glad for that group to be dead, or more specifically, Trevor to be dead. Part of her wondered what it would’ve been like if Graham was still alive though. He sounded like a good guy from Cole has said.
Save for the fact that he was a son of the Crime Boss and all.
She smiled and glanced towards him. “I am… ah.” Sofila hesitated. But now was a good time than any.
“I’ve been wondering something. Do you miss that life? At all?”
Cole considered the question, using sipping the water to give him a moment. If he was more sober he’d have taken longer. Considered her reactions more. He wasn’t more sober. His consideration was more in what he actually felt.
“I do.” He spoke honestly, glancing around the room on instinct at such a blatantly true statement. There was no one listening in any obvious regard. Just people enjoying their evenings. A normal bar despite the location and how many were the guardsmen working for Arcona. Normal people as much as they could be.
“The people more so but I knew what I was doing. There was a path I’d walked every day. It was comfortable. There’s some cross overs in what I’m asked of here but it’s not the same. Maybe I’ll grow to prefer it but for now… It’s not really a past life for me. It’s before Arcona but I’ve not left it behind. Nor have I changed any really.”
He shrugged after, sipping the water again.
“Did.. you want to head up with that? I can make sure you don’t take it too far if you want to try drinking again.”
Sofila shifted as she rested her head on Cole’s shoulder, if he allowed her, while he was talking.
“Ah.”
She wasn’t sure about him not leaving it behind. Can you really leave a past behind? She had been lucky so far. Her eyebrow rose as she glanced towards Cole. ‘Nor have I changed any really.’
“Huh?” She said softly as he mentioned about the bottle. “Oh! Sure! We can.” With a grin, “Should we get another?” She straightened up and decided to hold the rest of the questions for the room. “Come on!” She got up and grabbed the bottle that was on the table that she got earlier. “I have more questions so ah, let’s hurry up before I forge- but - Oh did you want to grab another bottle or not?”
“Sure.” Cole answered, chucklign ever so slightly. He wouldn’t mind if she forgot some of those questions but had a feeling they’d be talking quite a bit tonight.
It only took a moment to purchase a secondary bottle of booze before the pair began heading up into the heights of the Citadel where there were some guest rooms that could utilised for visiting members of the clan. Cole had already booked one after he’d gotten a few drinks in so they just walked down the halls together toward it.
He felt good. A warm buzz radiating through his body. The tension he usually always had in his shoulders was gone and things felt easier. Clearer in some ways though he could tell in others that it was fuzzier. Probably in a good way for the sake of enjoying himself.
Graham got him drunk more often than not when going out for that reason. He hadn’t thought Cole knew that but the youngest Farrow had worked it out early into the plot. He just hadn’t ever really worked to prevent it either.
Sofila pouted, her cheeks puffing. What was he chuckling about? No matter! “What’s the room number, Coooole?” Once he said the room number and gave the key, her smile went from warm to mischievous.
“Race ya!” With a quick run down the hallway, she passed the room number. It took her about three or four doors for her to realize it as she slid down the corridator. “Wait- no, oh no-” She turned at her heels and Cole was already at the door-
He was leant against his, smiling warmly at her.
She was absolutely hopeless at finding her way round places and it.. well it was annoying sometimes when it was important but moments like this it was quite adorable.
He’d only jogged, barely even that for most of the way. Knowing which direction to go was helpful safe to say and it gave him a nice view of her haphazard path.
That smile….
She smiled even brighter but then it withdrew, replaced with a pout and puffed of her cheeks. “No faaaair. Fine. You win that one time” She held up a finger as she approached the door, gave Cole a quick peck on the lips and entered. She set the bottle down on the closest safest surface as she was hopping and taking off her shoes at the same time. When she managed to do so, she quickly hopped on the bed and started to jump up and down, laughing all the meanwhile.
“It’s tradition for me,” giggled Sofila. “Long story short- ah” She almost lost her balance but regained it, “It was a way for us to stop being so grouchy with Buir!”
Cole had just shaken his head at her antics, accepting the peck and following her inside, ensuring the door closed behind them. He walked after her, placing the bottle he carried beside hers on the rather petite coffee table. There were some glasses nearby convienently that he picked up and brought over to the bottles, opening one of them and filling a glass.
“It seems like one you enjoy.” He commented, not keen to join in but taking his jacket and shoes off as she imbibed in the bouncing.
“It is!” She bounced down to her butt and did small bounces towards the edge of the bed. “It’s a good way to relieve stress, nervous feelings, and,- oooh gimme a drink, please?” She asked Cole while talking off her jacket and slid it over the end of the bed.
“Sure.” Cole hadn’t replaced the cap yet so just moved it to the other glass to fill it as well.
Once full, he picked up both of them and carried them over, holding one out for Sofila once she’d stopped bouncing, before sitting down on the bed beside her.
Now at the edge of the bed and no longer bouncing, she took the glass. “Thank you.” She took a sip and winced softly.
Kriff.
“I -ah. I’m trying to remember the questions. Okay! Let’s seeee we were talking about that lady, then past then- ah. Well. I remember ONE at the moment at least.” Pink hues glanced over to look at Cole. “So we talked about the past, we are living in the present, what do you have in mind for the future?”
She took another sip before it hit her.
“Ah… I mean if you want to answer! I just now realized that might’ve been a bit of a loaded question. Notlikeyourblasterthatday.” She muttered really fast.
“Oh it was loaded. I just didn’t fire.” Cole shrugged. He considered the actual question and shook his head, drinking once more. “Not a clue.”
It was honest. He was just.. working things out he had no idea where it’d lead.
“Oooh! Okay, how about a small one?” She grinned.
“Just a really small one. A goal actually. That would be a better word for it. Can be to try a certain food someday. Or a drink! Maybe even take up dancing class. I don’t know the possibilities are endless.”
She mused for a bit, hoping that it would help him get an idea or a starting stepping stone. She couldn’t fantom the idea of not… having future plans and honestly, that thought alone scared her.
Part of her was glad he didn’t ask her what she sees in her future.
Most men would take off running the other way.
“I uh.. I don’t know.” Cole rubbed the back of his neck, “Hadn’t thought about it. Well.. I have but not on a smaller scale.”
It wasn’t all to long ago that this lack of path forward had led to… an almost rather terrible decision. He didn’t know. There was vague potential in some things but he didn’t have anything planned. Well. Except one, he supposed.
“Surviving the war I guess?”
“Yes! By the stars, yes! That’s a kriffin’ good goal.” Then she smiled and nodded.
“That’s my goal too! So let’s drink to it!” She tilted her drink towards Cole’s for them to clink their glasses.
He clinked it against hers. It felt like rather a mediocre goal but at least it’d last him until it was all over. Worrying about the future could wait until then.
He drank heavily from the glass, leaving some in the bottom.
“Was that the only question?”
Sofila tilted her head back and downed it. “Whoo!”
The Mirialan glanced at Cole and blinked. She looked like an orbak caught in speeder’s headlights.
“Yes! No. Well- I haaaaad more but kriff I forgot.” She frowned as she does her best to try to remember everything.
“Don’t you have any questions for me?” She asked out of curiosity. Then she looked horrified, “oh no! Maybe I told you everything without realizing that I- you’re really handsome you know that?” Sofila grinned at him.
“You’ve told me a lot, yes, but I also just don’t… I don’t know what I’d ask that I need to know. It’s not that I know everything.” Cole shrugged. He couldn’t think of anything he’d specifically just want to know either. He knew quite a bit about her. Darker details and lighter.
The comment on his appearance was.. out of no where.
“You’re quite beautiful yourself.” A slight grin crossed his face. She really was.
“Fair enough! Heeeey, that can be our next small goal. Discover little things about each other. Ah- besides you know.” Sofila smirked as she tilted her head at the bed.
Then her expression softened when he compliment her. She leaked in and kissed at his cheek.
Not too long after, she got up and went to get the bottle they had opened. She sat by Cole again and filled ip her glass before placing the bottle between their legs on the floor.
“Ooooh I got one! What was the most fun adventure you went on! Not work related if possible.”
He couldn’t really think of any. Well. Hm.
“We used to go swimming every so often, there were a few planets nearby that had rivers and lakes. Probably one of those, we found caves once. Didn’t go too far, we didn’t have any equipment, but there was an entire system of them it looked like, all beneath the lake. We kept meaning to go back and explore but we never really got close enough to make the excuse to go.” Cole came up with eventually. It was true though for him he… did that even count as an adventure? He never really deemed himself the adventurous type.
It probably counted.
He tucked one of his legs under the other, shifting to be more comfortable.
Sofila smiled while sipping her drink and listening. “Ooooh! Underwater caves? We should go- ah! I mean, if you’re still open to the idea. The um- kriff, what are they kriffin called? The breather for underwater? I have one and they last a loooong time so yes! Ah- only if you want to.”
“I-” He cut off. Kriff. It’d be great but… “Probably not the safest idea. It wasn’t close to home but it wasn’t that far either. I’d rather not risk it.”
It was a silent agreement. He stayed the kark away, they left him alone.
“We could probably find somewhere else. Similar. What about you though? Seems like you’ve done a lot? Might have something a bit more exciting than that.” Cole did his best to move them along.
Her lips curved into a slight frown. She nodded softly. Maybe it would be a good idea for later or explore more why he can’t go home.
This night was going good. She wasn’t going to ruin it.
“Yea! Maybe I could try to find any areas that might be some kind of underwater cave!” It was her turn to answer the question.
“Oh suns, yes a lot hmmmmm.” She took few more sips. After a bit of thinking, she smiled, “I was climbing this…hundreds of feet cliff. It wasn’t a one day thing either, I had to learn how to get these huuuuge, she gestured in the size, “nails into the rock wall. And emergency ones too and set up the hammock. It was like becoming a cliff’s pocket for the night. Kriff. I was so sore but the views… it was worth it.”
“Kriff. I don’t think I’d want to stay on a cliff edge over night.” Cole let out a slight breath, shaking his head. Yeah. No way. Still a slight chuckle escaped him at the idea of it all. “I’m glad it was worth it but I might just leave those ones to you.”
He mused for a moment, staring at his glass and emptying it in before commenting, “I think I’d rather just.. relax.”
It was an odd thing to say out loud. Cole almost wanted to correct himself but no.. when was the last time he’d stopped for more than a moment? With Sofila on the cliff. So recently, actually, but before then? He couldn’t remember. It had been long before he came into Arcona. Before Zuza. Before…
Cole didn’t correct himself, leaning to pick up the bottle and pour himself another drink. The buzz was building up now and he found that he didn’t really want to sit with those thoughts.
“Though a smaller cliff, you might be able to convince me.” He nudged her playfully.
Sofila laughed gently. “Honestly? I sort of… regretted the idea and got scared. I wanted to go back down or keep climbing but I was too exhausted. Ah. It took me forever to fall asleep but after awhile I finally did and it got easier the next day. Kriff. It was three days climb. I think it was the first time I started to question my sanity.”
Sofila nodded gently when he said he rather just relax. She gets it. Not everyone in her family goes for the climbing or swimming or diving or- well. Things Sofila does for fun if she had the time. Cole picked up the bottle from the floor as he poured himself a drink. She held out her hand for him to pass the bottle. When he does, she felt the nudge as she smirked.
“Ooooh.” Her voice was playful when he nudged her and offer her being able to convince him. “There’s also many other options. I know bunch of good places that doesn’t require climbing.”
Then she shifted her body sideways to be able to lean in and kissed cheek, down to his jawline and stopped at his neck before pulling away with a sly smile.
“Mmm. I’ve got ideas to convince you.”
She leaned to the side to set the bottle back down. “First things first! I accept the hidden challenge to find an underwater cave for us to explore on Selen.” So many ideas!
He’d slipped an arm around her, pulling her closer though stopping when she did. He left the hand there, though as Sofila leant away it ended on the small of her back. That was okay.
He smiled.
“I’m sure there will be somewhere. Its a primarily oceanic planet anyway. Though I don’t know if I’d want to go unarmed. Selens wildlife isn’t exactly docile. Animals don’t usually like me when I’m not bothering them in their home.” A tinge of exasperation entered his voice. The bite scars he bore were.. stark memories for him. “Something to look forward to either way.”
A small plan but it was one. Hed gone from having none to two. It was better.
“I might have taught you to slow down but you’ve really helped me look up. Even in small ways. It.. its enough.” His tone had softened, meeting her gaze with a genuine expression. It was intense but not in the way he often was. This was warm, firm. One of want rather than clinical disassociation from a situation.
The warmth and roughness of his hand was on the small of her back and she didn’t mind at all. In fact, this was something she enjoy. Just small touches. It made her feel noticed.
“Ah. Kriff. Yea. I’ll be sure we get stuff to keep us protected. There’s ah. I don’t have it myself but I can see if I can get us some blasters that has the waterproof modifications.” Has she ever told him about Clawless? Ah. Kriff. She has not. Best not to surprise him at the moment that she has a varactyl. Another conversation for another day.
Wait, would this mean she can’t have a pet? She hopes not. It was also another conversation for another day.
His hand remained while she scooted up a bit, her right leg rested on the bed while the other was off of the edge. Her arm went to his shoulder as a resting point while gently running her fingers through his soft hair.
Her other hand was holding her drink on her left thigh. She heard his words and her body felt like it was light as feather. Her facial expression softened completely as her hand stopped at the back of his neck.
“Ah, cyar'ika…”
The feelings she has towards him had gotten so much stronger. The human holds her heart in his hands and she knows it. Her brain kicked in a fear response of what if he dies in the war? The pain would be unimaginable. She doesn’t want to think about the emptiness. What if she dies in the war? Would he keep looking up? She would want him to. She felt her throat tightened and closed up on her.
‘No. We’ll come back alive.’
Her hand gently slid to the side of his face while she leaned in and pressed her lips against his deeply. Everything melted away in that moment. It was just him and her.
When the few seconds of the moment passed, she pulled away first, but her head tilted to rest against his forehead.
“I never really thought I would go from no strings to here.”
He’d felt her touch and met her gaze, leaning to meet her in the middle for the kiss. Pressing back gently and letting his eyes fall close. A moment like, Cole almost wanted to lose himself in it. To just sit in this room and… that be that. It wasn’t really a long kiss but he still leaned after he slightly when she pulled away, eyes blinking open in time to see her move forward before her forehead was against his. A slight pressure.
He could smell her hair as it fell forward over her shoulder, the tropical scent one that was comforting now. It was familiar. Sofila was familiar. Her eyes met his and he didn’t want to look away for once. The lingering fear of what could be out of sight, the instinct to always look for threats, melted away with everything else for a moment.
Cole chuckled at her words, raising his hand from back to hold her cheek. His thumb brushed the unmarred side of her face but it was by chance than anything herself. Without her scars she wouldn’t be her. He’d done his best to make sure she knew that.
Kriff. She was so right.
“Yet here we are.” Was what he eventually murmured in response, “All tied up.”
Sofila smiled and nuzzled her face into his hand slightly, her eyelids closed for a moment before she open them again. Kriff. Those icy blue eyes, she could get lost in them for ages.
This felt so good and so right. It was almost a week ago when he was so far away from her despite being at her side physically.
Her heart was racing. How does he do this to her?
She placed her glass between her legs. Her hand that was at his neck lowered while the other moved up to his shirt. She started to slowly unbuttoned the top three and left it there.
“That’s better,” Sofila whispered. She wanted to ask him if they were a couple.
At the same she didn’t want to put a kriffin’ label on it. It doesn’t help when people get nosy.
And this was all new.
Sofila leaned back slightly while getting the glass and drinking the rest of the drink down.
*‘No matter. Next time people ask, it’s none of their kriffin business.’ *
“Tied up… there’s no complaints on my end.”
“None on mine.” He spoke, quiet. Hushed. As if something too loud might break the moment.
He didn’t want it to be lost.
Cole had watched her unbutton his shirt. There was an implication there but he didn’t want to dive into it just yet. There was an implication in her words too. He wasn’t sure if she realised that though.
He finished his own drink, placing the glass on the floor now. He was buzzed, mind quiet for once. It was tempting, that feeling, but logic thankfully had always won out. It was a dangerous temptation. He remained sat in place, hands on his lap now from having to shift to move the glass. A slight gap but not one of any importance. Just a hesitation.
There was one final question though…
“Strings?”
Hed basically almost confirmed it but he wanted to make sure. Make sure that whatever this exactmy was, was agreed on.
A small smile when there was no negativity on his end about them being tied up with feelings and emotions. When he placed his glass on the floor, she followed. No more for now.
They had the entire night anyways. And another bottle to open. She went back to her previous position but noticed that Cole was taking a bit longer.
‘Strings?’
She thought she could hear her heart sing. She had a feeling but she wasn’t sure and Cole saying it was just-
“Strings.” Her lips practically curved brilliantly and she was smiling happily. There was even a soft uplift in her voice. Few crinkles appeared underneath her eyes to show how genuinely happy she was.
She gently grabbed his face and took him in for another deep kiss. The roughness of his stubble and the smell of him along with the alochol they had been drinking, even with it, he was still intoxicating to her.
She pulled back and laughed. Not a loud one but, a soft and almost quiet one.
“Kriff. I’m so scared. And excited. Ah. This is a whole new adventure.”
She slid off the edge, only for a moment and made sure not to knock the bottle or glasses. She moved her leg that was up against his side to rest beside his thigh. Used her body weight, she brought her other leg up. Sofila trusted him to move his hands out of the way on his lap. When he does, she was now sitting on his lap gently and facing him.
Her fingertips tenderly and carefully started to unbutton more of his shirt slowly. She wanted to enjoy this.
Slow down, as he had been teaching her unintentionally.
Cole considered her words. Fear. Excitement. New adventure.
He was scared, he knew that. He could lose her. Kriff. As attached as he was it made the idea of something going wrong worse. So much worse.
Looking up slightly, into her eyes that were intently set on undoing his shirt and Cole knew it didn’t matter if he could lose her. He’d worry but it’d be worth it.
“We’ll face it together. As best as we can.” He just hoped he wouldn’t fail this time.
Cole leaned forward slightly, just enough to reach her neck and kissing her there. They had time to enjoy this moment without worry though. And all the moments immediately about to follow.