Love and Deepspace Dreams

 I was upset, and drank more than I should have… but I still remember you. Watching over me with that carefree air of yours, even after I’d just seen how protective you could be. “Xavier… I’m sorry they called you my boy-toy. That was rude. Uncalled for.” You said you’d stay by my side, look after me, take care of me. Was I dreaming that… or just more than slightly drunk? “Let’s enjoy ourselves since you already ordered our drinks! We should celebrate today!” But I’ve discovered something else. I do want you to stay with me. I want the comfort of your company… and that savage glint in your eye you so often hide from me. “I don’t want you sneaking out to fight stronger wanderers on your own. And I don’t want you taking anyone else along, either. I’m your partner now. Promise me, Xavier!” Somehow we got home. Roses on the counter, my clothes from yesterday still on me, creased against the bed. And on the table, I stumble across a few things you left for me— bananas, coconut water, an...

The sun was just starting to set when they finished establishing their camp for the weekend. It was warm out, comfortable enough to take their time while preparing their meal. Lei was busy laying out some fruit, mostly strawberries, sorting them by color and softness. She ran her fingers lightly over each one before handing them to Xavier, who deposited them into a bowl. He kneeled quietly beside her, but close enough that the others wouldn’t forget who she had come with. Lassy crouched by the fire, stirring the lit coals with the end of a stick. Zayne hovered closely behind her. He was silent as usual, just adjusted the grill and stayed near, steady as he always was. She let the heat rise. Near the cooler, Sylus was picking through bottles of flavour-infused mead, humming and turning each one in his hand like he was selecting a vintage wine. “Cherry or strawberry?” he asked, holding up both bottles. His tone was light, but the glance he gave Zayne said he hadn’t forgotten who had got ...