2. Just Friends 🏳️‍🌈

"it's 6 am on a Sunday morning and Aeris wakes to a loud knock on their dorm door, at least it sounds that way due to the pulsing hangover theyre having from last night. "I need to stop drinking with Carlos, seriously." they think to themselves groaning still in their tank and shorts hair a tousled mess as they make it to the door wondering who it could be this early in the morning." Go away, or die- "they begin to say in a croaked sleepy voice but their words catch in your throat when they see - elio/ollie - at their door in sweats and a t shirt bags in hand and a half awake Carlos, - elio/ollie -'s brother and their best friends for years, in a similar state as themself, hangover behind - elio/ollie - smiling sheepishly" Did I forget to mention that - elio/ollie - is taking my room in our dorm, as your roommate for awhile? "he murmurs incoherently sheepishly behind an annoyed - elio/ollie -"

"Aeris chuckles as Cleo calls them 'woman' in an exaggerated tone."

"Right this way!" "They reply in an equally dramatic voice, gesturing grandly ahead." "To the fowl domain we go!"

"Aeris leads her down a winding path towards the little duck pond, the orange glow of sunset glinting off the rippling water. A flock of ducks swims lazily nearby, quacking expectantly at the sight of them."

"Behold, the feathered folk await!" "Aeris announces with a flourish."

"They grin at Cleo, momentarily breathless from the simple beauty of it all - the ducks, the fading light, her smile. Aeris feels a surge of warmth for this silly, wonderful woman beside them."

"Shall we bestow the bread upon them, m'lady?" "They ask softly, offering her the bag with an outstretched hand."

"Aeris smiles as they accept the bread, sitting down beside Cleo on the blanket. They take a moment to tear off small pieces and toss them to the eager ducks quacking around them."

"Me? Not much lately besides classes and practice," "they reply casually." "Been keeping busy, you know how it is."

"In truth Aeris has thought of little else besides Cleo since she moved in. But they don't say as much, tossing another piece of bread into the water."

"What about you though?" "They ask, glancing over at her curiously." "Anything new with you I should know about, roomie?"

"Aeris hopes she'll share more of herself too. They lean in a little closer, preoccupied by the way the fading light plays across her features..."

"I want to get to know you better." "The words slip out before they can stop them."

"Aeris chuckles ruefully at that, shaking their head."

"You make a fair point. We've known each other a long time, through Carlos." "They acknowledge."

"But it's different now." "Aeris continues softly, gazing at her profile in the golden light."

"Back then we were just kids, and I saw you as my friend's little sister." "They meet her eyes meaningfully."

"Now though...now we're adults, and roommates. I look at you and I don't just see Carlos' sister anymore."

"Aeris' heart pounds as they speak the truth, wondering if she'll understand what they're really saying."

"I see "you" - Cleo. And I want to get to know that woman, not just the girl from my past. If...if you'll let me."

"They offer her a small, hopeful smile, waiting nervously for her response."

"Aeris breathes an audible sigh of relief at Cleo's reply, tension melting from their shoulders."

"Thank you," "they say gratefully." "I appreciate you giving me this chance."

"Aeris thinks for a moment, tossing the last of their bread to the ducks as they consider their first question."

"What are your hopes and dreams?" "They ask softly, gazing at her profile in the dim glow."

"Where do you see yourself in five years? Ten?"

"Aeris listens intently as she speaks, hanging onto every word, every subtle expression. They want - need - to understand this beautiful woman beside them, and the life she envisions for herself."

"And what about relationships?" "Aeris adds after a pause, voice lowering." "What are you looking for in that area?"

"Their eyes meet meaningfully, heart in their throat as they await her answer."

"Aeris listens intently as Cleo shares her dreams, a soft smile playing at their lips."

"That sounds wonderful," "they murmur appreciatively," "A home filled with greenery and sunshine. I can picture it perfectly."

"They nod in understanding at her career aspirations too."

"I'm glad you're putting your education first - that's so important." "Aeris says sincerely." "And once you've got your dream job, we'll have to find the perfect sunny spot for that house of yours together. Maybe even plant some vines ourselves!"

"Aeris grins hopefully before turning back to the ducks, giving them a moment to process what they just said - 'we'."

"And relationships?" "They prompt gently after a beat."

"What kind of partner do you hope to find? Someone who shares your passions? Or maybe someone totally different from yourself?"

"Aeris holds their breath slightly as she considers it, heart fluttering wildly in anticipation."

"Aeris' heart stops for a moment, eyes widening at Cleo's words. They stare at her in shock, hardly daring to believe what they just heard."

"S-she?" "They stammer out after an eternity." "You mean...you're into women?"

"Aeris feels like the world has tilted on its axis - this revelation changes everything between them. All those years of pining and wondering if she might feel the same way too..."

"I had no idea," "Aeris says softly, voice trembling slightly with emotion." "All this time I thought you were straight..."

"They trail off uncertainly, searching her face for any sign of how she really feels about it all now that it's out there."

"Do you mind me knowing?" "Aeris asks hesitantly," "I hope my reaction doesn't make things weird between us..."

"Aeris feels a pang of disappointment at Cleo's correction, but they quickly plaster on a smile and play along with her teasing."

"Ha ha, very funny," "they chuckle." "I'm no catch. Just your average guy magnet."

"They accept the push pop she offers gratefully, unwrapping it slowly as their mind races to process this new information - or lack thereof."

"So...that date I told you about?" "Aeris says casually after a moment," "It was actually with my best friend from high school. We were just catching up over dinner."

"The truth is Aeris hasn't been interested in dating men for years now - not since they first realized their true feelings for Cleo all those summers ago when Carlos would bring them both home from college breaks..."

"But enough about me," "Aeris continues brightly," "Tell me more about these guys lining up for you! What are they like? Do any of them have what it takes?"

"Inside though, Aeris' heart aches knowing that none of those hypothetical suitors could ever compare to how much "they" love her."

"Aeris laughs at Cleo's dramatic reaction, setting their own push pop aside."

"Oh no! Poor baby," "they tease playfully," "Here, let me help."

"Before she can protest, Aeris scoots closer and wraps an arm around her shoulders, pulling Cleo into a warm hug. They rub soothing circles on her back as she groans against them."

"There there...just breathe through it," "Aeris murmurs softly," "It'll pass soon enough."

"They inhale deeply of her scent - sweet like vanilla and strawberries - savoring the feeling of holding her close even if it's only to comfort a silly brain freeze."

"You okay now?" "Aeris asks after a moment when they feel some tension leave her body."

"Their eyes meet in the fading light and for just one heartbeat Aeris thinks maybe...maybe this is their chance. That perhaps all those years of longing have finally led up to this perfect moment right here..."

"Aeris blinks in surprise as Cleo leans in to lick their push pop, her tongue darting out and brushing against the icy treat. They swallow hard at the intimate gesture, pulse quickening."

"Uh...sure," "they manage after a beat," "Go ahead."

"They hold it out for her awkwardly with slightly trembling hands, watching transfixed as she takes another long lick. Aeris can't help but imagine that pink tongue on other parts of them instead..."

"So..." "Aeris says huskily once they've both had a few bites," "You never did tell me about those guys..."

"It's an obvious attempt to distract themselves from the sexual tension building between them - or maybe not so obvious since Cleo seems oblivious."

"Aeris listens intently as Cleo rattles off the names of her admirers, feeling a pang of jealousy at each one. They try to keep their expression neutral though."

"That's quite an impressive roster," "they comment wryly." "Sounds like you've got your pick of the litter."

"Inside though, Aeris is dying - picturing all these other guys vying for Cleo's attention when they themselves have loved her for so long..."

"So...which one do you like best?" "They ask hesitantly after a moment," "Or are you just enjoying being popular?"

"Aeris holds their breath waiting for her answer, hoping against hope that maybe she'll say none of them matter because it's always been "them" she wanted..."

"Aeris nearly chokes on their water at Cleo's casual admission, eyes widening in shock."

"Wait...what?" "They sputter out," "You mean you're not interested in any of them?"

"Inside Aeris is doing a happy dance - this changes everything! If she's not into those other guys then maybe there's still hope for them..."

"Why not though?" "Aeris asks curiously after recovering from their initial surprise." "I thought Jace was pretty cute. And Tyler can really play the guitar..."

"Their voice trails off as they realize how lame that sounds compared to what they really want to say: I love YOU Cleo. Only you."

"So..." "Aeris continues awkwardly instead," "What kind of guy "are" you looking for? Maybe we could find someone perfect for you..."

"Aeris feels their heart soar at Cleo's words, hardly daring to believe it. She's not looking for a guy...which means she might be open to something else entirely."

"Oh really?" "They ask casually, trying not to let their excitement show." "Well that makes sense I guess. School is keeping you busy enough as it is."

"Inside though Aeris is screaming with joy - this could be their chance! Their moment!"

"So..." "Aeris continues after a beat," "What "are" you looking for then? In terms of...relationships and stuff?"

"Their voice wavers slightly on the last word, hope and fear warring within them. What if she says she wants to focus on her career or some other excuse? But what if..."

"Aeris feels their cheeks flush hotly at Cleo's teasing accusation, heart pounding wildly in their chest."

"No! I mean...I wasn't..." "They stammer out," "It's just that you said you weren't interested in guys and so I was wondering if maybe..."

"They trail off helplessly, realizing how badly they're messing this up. Aeris takes a deep breath trying to calm themselves before continuing more smoothly:"

"I'm not asking because of earlier," "they assure her," "I genuinely want to know what kind of relationship "you" are looking for right now. That's all."

"Their eyes meet hers imploringly - silently begging her to open up about the real reason she turned down those other guys..."

"Aeris blushes even harder at Cleo's playful accusation, looking away shyly."

"I'm not interrogating you!" "They protest," "I was just...curious. That's all."

"Inside though Aeris is freaking out - they can't believe this opportunity has presented itself and they're messing it up so badly!"

"Forget I asked," "Aeris mumbles after a moment of awkward silence," "It doesn't matter anyway..."

"Their voice cracks slightly on the last word, betraying their true feelings. Aeris quickly stands up brushing off their shorts." "We should probably head back inside before it gets too dark," "they say abruptly," "Come on..."

"Aeris freezes at Cleo's amused observation, realizing too late that they had indeed been pouting. They quickly school their features into a more neutral expression."

"No I'm not," "they deny firmly," "I just...don't want you to get eaten by bears or something out here."

"It's a flimsy excuse and they know it - especially when paired with the fact that there are no bears in this part of California. Aeris internally curses themselves for being so transparent around her."

"Seriously though," "they say after clearing their throat," "We should go back inside. It'll be getting cold soon..."

"Aeris yelps in surprise as Cleo suddenly jumps on their back, stumbling a few steps before regaining their balance. They can feel the heat of her body pressed against theirs, her thighs locked around their hips and arms slung casually over their shoulders."

"Aeri-bear?" "They sputter out incredulously," "Really? We're going with that now?"

"Despite themselves Aeris can't help but laugh at the ridiculous nickname - it's so reminiscent of when they were kids together."

"Okay fine," "they concede after a moment," "I guess I "was" pouting a little bit..."

"Aeris admits sheepishly glancing back at Cleo over their shoulder." "But only because you keep teasing me and not giving me straight answers!"

"Their voice rises slightly on the last part betraying some frustration - though whether it's from being teased or from unrequited feelings is unclear..."

"Aeris feels Cleo's breath tickling their neck as she rests her face on their shoulder, sending shivers down their spine. They try to focus on the question at hand though."

"I'm not curious," "they deny quickly," "I was just...making conversation."

"The lie tastes bitter on Aeris' tongue but they can't bring themselves to admit the truth - that they're dying to know if there's any chance for them because they've been in love with her for years..."

"You should really be more careful about teasing people like that though," "Aeris warns playfully after a beat," "You never know when someone might take you seriously and get jealous..."

"It's a thinly veiled reference to how "they" would feel if one of those guys actually pursued Cleo - but hopefully she'll read between the lines..."

"Aeris feels Cleo's nose brush against their neck as she nuzzles in, sending a jolt of electricity through them. They have to bite back a moan at the intimate gesture."

"Carlos is just...protective," "Aeris says diplomatically," "He cares about you and wants what's best for you."

"Inside though Aeris is thinking: He better not get jealous if I ever make my move..."

"He may be intense sometimes but he means well," "they continue out loud." "And I'm sure he'll come around eventually - especially once he sees how happy his little sister is with someone..."

"Aeris trails off hoping that last part wasn't too obvious - they're practically holding their breath waiting for Cleo's reaction."

"Aeris nearly stumbles at Cleo's blunt question, heart pounding wildly in their chest. They can hardly believe she actually asked it - is this a test? A sign that maybe, just maybe..."

"I..." "Aeris starts then stops," "I mean...of course I would," "they admit after a moment," "You're my best friend and I care about you."

"The words are true but they barely scratch the surface of how Aeris really feels. Inside they're screaming: Yes! So much! You have no idea!"

"But not like "that"," "Aeris quickly adds to clarify." ""Jealousy" jealousy. More like...brotherly concern or something..."

"It's a lie but hopefully Cleo will buy it - Aeris isn't ready to reveal their true feelings yet..."

"Aeris feels Cleo's laughter vibrate through them as she rests her head on their shoulder, a smile tugging at their own lips. They can't help but feel a thrill of pride that they could make her laugh like that."

"Glad I can amuse you," "they tease back," "I aim to please."

"As the campus comes into view Aeris slows down reluctantly - part of them wants to keep carrying Cleo forever. But alas, all good things must come to an end..."

"We're here," "Aeris announces unnecessarily as they stop in front of the dorm building." "Home sweet home."

"They turn around slightly so they can look at Cleo face-to-face." "You okay there? Need me to carry you inside too?" "Aeris asks with a playful wink."

"Aeris' breath catches in their throat as Cleo steps into their arms and wraps her own around their neck. They can feel the heat of her body pressed against theirs, smell the sweet scent of her shampoo...it's intoxicating."

"Sure thing," "Aeris murmurs before scooping Cleo up bridal style." "Hold on tight."

"They carry her inside with ease - though they're not sure if it's because Aeris is so strong or because Cleo is just that light. Probably a bit of both..."

"Aren't you going to put me down?" "Cleo asks teasingly once they reach the elevator," "Or are we going for a ride?"

"The way she says 'ride' makes Aeris think dirty thoughts but they quickly push those aside." "I could take you for a spin if you want," "they joke back," "Just say the word."

"Aeris feels Cleo's thighs tighten around their waist as she adjusts her position, the heat of her skin searing through the thin fabric of Aeris' shorts. They swallow hard trying to ignore the way their body is reacting."

"I won't let you fall," "Aeris promises firmly," "I've got you."

"They glance down at where Cleo's dress has ridden up, catching a glimpse of red lace before she tugs it back down. Aeris quickly looks away feeling guilty for staring - even if it was only for a second..."

"Though I can't make any promises about what might happen on that ride..." "they tease with a smirk." "You know how bumpy elevators can be..."

"The elevator dings and opens just then, saving Aeris from having to elaborate further on that innuendo-laden statement."

"Aeris feels Cleo's legs swing happily against their sides as they carry her into the elevator, a smile tugging at their lips. They can't help but let their hands slide up to hold her more securely - and maybe cop a little feel in the process."

"You know," "Aeris murmurs lowly," "I could get used to this..."

"They're not just talking about carrying Cleo either - though that is admittedly nice. No, Aeris means getting used to being close like this with her all the time..."

"The elevator doors start to close but suddenly stop halfway through when someone sticks an arm out."

"Hold the door!" "A voice calls out before a figure squeezes through - it's one of Aeris' teammates, a guy named Jake."

"Aeris! Hey man," "Jake greets them with a nod," "And...Cleo right? Didn't expect to see you two together like this..."

"He raises an eyebrow suggestively and Aeris feels their cheeks heat up."

"Aeris can't help but grin at Cleo's bold teasing, even as Jake sputters and turns red in the face." "I mean...no! I wasn't thinking that!" "he denies quickly," "I just meant it was unexpected to see you two together is all..."

"Aeris can feel Cleo's body flush against theirs as she wraps her thighs more snugly around them, sending a jolt of electricity through their veins. They have to bite back a moan at the intimate contact."

"A sprained ankle huh?" "Jake asks skeptically," "Is that what they're calling it these days?"

"He waggles his eyebrows suggestively and Aeris feels their own face heat up even more." "Shut up man," "they mutter defensively," "We're not...it's not like that..."

"Even as they say it though, Aeris is acutely aware of every point where Cleo's body touches theirs - her breasts pressed against their chest, her legs wrapped tightly around their waist..."

"Aeris watches in amusement as Cleo turns on the charm, running her hand down Jake's chest and giving him a flirty once-over. They can practically see his ego inflating right before their eyes."

"Yeah man," "Aeris chimes in," "I was just helping out a friend. No need to read into it."

"They give Jake a pointed look - one that says 'back off' loud and clear."

"A sprained ankle huh?" "Jake asks again, glancing at Cleo's leg," "Must be pretty bad if you need Aeris to carry you around..."

"Aeris can't help but roll their eyes at Cleo's puppy dog eyes - they've seen her use that look a million times to get what she wants. And judging by the way Jake is melting under it now, it still works like a charm."

"Aw come on Cleo," "Jake says in an exaggeratedly sympathetic tone," "You know I would have carried you if I was there..."

"He reaches out to pat her thigh and Aeris has to resist the urge to smack his hand away."

"Aeris smirks as they watch Cleo toy with Jake, enjoying the way he's squirming under her flirtatious teasing. They know full well that Carlos would flip if he saw another guy touching his little sister like this - even if it is just a harmless pat on the thigh."

"That's right man," "Aeris chimes in," "You don't want to get on Carlos' bad side..."

"They give Jake a meaningful look before glancing down at where his hand still rests on Cleo's thigh."

"Aeris feels their jaw clench as they watch Cleo run her fingers over Jake's hand, still resting on her thigh. They want to tell him to take his hands off of her but they know that would only make things more awkward."

"Cleo..." "Jake says warningsly," "You're playing with fire here..."

"He looks torn between wanting to keep flirting and knowing he should back off - especially with Aeris watching."

"Aeris's eyes narrow as they watch Cleo run Jake's hand higher up her thigh, their grip on her tightening reflexively. They can feel the heat of her skin even through the fabric of Aeris' shorts."

"Cleo..." "Aeris warns lowly," "Knock it off..."

"They know she's just teasing him - and probably enjoying getting a rise out of both Jake and Aeris in the process. But that doesn't mean they have to like it."

"Aeris feels their breath hitch as Cleo turns her attention to them, her face mere inches away. They can see the amusement dancing in her eyes - and something else too. Something that makes Aeris's heart race."

"No problem," "they reply evenly," "Just don't want you getting into trouble..."

"They glance pointedly at Jake's hand still resting on Cleo's thigh before looking back up at her."

"Aeris smirks as Jake practically flees the elevator, leaving them alone with Cleo. They can't help but feel a sense of satisfaction at his retreat - even if they know it's mostly because he's scared of Carlos."

"So," "Aeris says casually," "Just teasing him for fun or did you actually want him to carry you around?"

"They raise an eyebrow questioningly, their hands still firmly gripping Cleo's thighs."

"Aeris's breath catches as Cleo's fingers trail up their neck, her touch leaving a tingling sensation in its wake. They swallow hard, trying to maintain their composure even as they feel heat pooling low in their belly."

"I don't know," "they reply huskily," "You tell me..."

"They hold her gaze steadily - even as every instinct screams at them to look away before they get lost in those mesmerizing eyes."

"Aeris's heart skips a beat as Cleo brushes her hair behind their ear, the simple touch sending shivers down their spine. They can feel themselves getting lost in her eyes - those same eyes that used to look up at them with such adoration when she was little."

"I see," "they murmur," "And what position would that be?"

"They know they're playing with fire here but they can't seem to stop themselves from teasing back."

"Aeris's hands skim higher up Cleo's thighs, fingers digging into the soft flesh of her ass as they hold her firmly against them. They can feel the heat of her core pressing against their stomach and it takes every ounce of self-control not to grind back."

"I'm comfortable," "they rasp," "But I don't know if you are..."

"They glance pointedly at where their hips are pressed together before looking back up at Cleo with a raised eyebrow."

"Aeris's breath hitches as Cleo runs her finger down their chest, toying with the necklace that rests just above their cleavage. They can feel every brush of her fingertip like a brand against their skin."

"I remember," "they murmur," "But we were kids then..."

"They swallow hard, trying to ignore the way their nipples are hardening beneath Aeris' shirt - and how much they want Cleo's fingers to dip lower."

"Aeris bites back a groan as their fingers cup the bare flesh of Cleo's ass, feeling the soft skin and faint outlines of her underwear. She's anything but innocent right now - and they know it."

"I don't know," "they reply hoarsely," "Have you?"

"They hold her gaze meaningfully, raising an eyebrow in challenge. Their heart is pounding in their chest but they refuse to back down from this game she's playing."

"Aeris's eyes widen as they feel the damp lace of Cleo's panties brush against their stomach, her words sending a jolt of lust straight to their core. They can't help but imagine what she looks like beneath that dress - and how badly they want to see for themselves."

"Cleo..." "they warn lowly," "You're playing with fire here..."

"But even as they say it, Aeris finds themselves pressing back against her instinctively - craving more friction."

"Aeris's breath hitches as Cleo's wandering thumb brushes over their breast, the gentle touch sending sparks of electricity through their body. They can feel their nipples hardening further beneath their shirt."

"Guess not," "they murmur huskily."

"Aeris knows they should put a stop to this before things go too far. But with Cleo looking at them like that, her body pressed so intimately against their own, they find themselves powerless to resist."

"Aeris is just about to reply when the elevator dings, announcing their arrival at the destination floor. They hear the telltale sound of the doors sliding open and someone stepping inside."

"Shit," "they hiss under their breath."

"Quick as lightning, Aeris spins Cleo around, pressing her back against the elevator wall and shielding her body with their own just as a voice calls out,"

"Aeris? Cleo? That you guys?"

"Their heart is pounding but they manage a casual tone," "Hey Carlos. Fancy meeting you here."

"Aeris watches the exchange between Cleo and Carlos with amusement, relieved the tension from earlier has been broken for now. They catch Carlos rubbing the back of his head where Cleo swatted him and have to suppress a smirk."

"Thanks for getting Cleo's schedule," "they say to Carlos," "I'm sure she appreciates it."

"Their eyes meet Cleo's meaningfully before glancing away, hoping she can't see how affected they still are. Being so close to getting caught has Aeris's nerves on edge - and their body still humming with barely contained desire."

The walk back to the dorm is quiet and Aeris can't help but wonder if Cleo is thinking the same thing they are - whether what happened in the elevator should be forgotten, or if it might change things between them.

A part of Aeris hopes they can pretend it never happened; going back to how things were would certainly be safer. But another, bigger part hopes this is just the beginning - that maybe Cleo feels the same undeniable pull between them.

They glance over at her walking beside them, her beautiful profile illuminated by the setting sun. Aeris feels desire and longing well up inside them once more.

"So..." they begin hesitantly, "About earlier..."

They want - no, need - to know where Cleo's head is at. Because if she's willing, Aeris knows they won't be able to resist exploring this thing between them any longer.

"Aeris watches as Cleo flops down onto the couch, her words stinging more than they probably should. They know she's deflecting but it still hurts to hear her dismiss what happened between them so easily."

"I'm not straight," "they say quietly, surprising themselves with their own admission." "I mean... I haven't really dated much in college because..."

"They trail off, unsure how to continue. How can they explain that no one has ever measured up to Cleo? That every relationship feels hollow and unsatisfying because deep down Aeris knows none of those people are who they truly want."

"So yeah," "they finish lamely," "That's why."

"Aeris looks away uncomfortably now that the truth is out there - or at least part of it. They have no idea how Cleo will react."

"Aeris sighs heavily, running a hand through their hair in frustration. They can understand why Cleo is skeptical - they've been so adamant about being straight for so long that it's hard to believe otherwise now."

"No," "they say firmly," "I'm not pulling your leg. I... I was trying to protect you."

"The words come out before Aeris can stop them and they immediately regret the admission."

"Forget it," "they mumble," "It doesn't matter anymore anyway."

"Aeris pauses mid-step at Cleo's question, their heart pounding in their chest. They knew this was coming but it doesn't make the admission any easier."

"I've always known," "they say quietly," "I just... I didn't want to ruin our friendship by telling you."

"It's not the whole truth but it's as close as Aeris can get right now without completely exposing themselves."

"And then when you started dating guys and seemed so happy..." they continue with a shrug, "I figured there was no point in saying anything."

"Aeris's breath hitches as they feel Cleo walk up behind them, her presence both comforting and unnerving. They know she deserves the truth but it's so hard to put into words."

"Yes," "they admit softly," "I knew then too."

"The memory of that night is still vivid in Aeris's mind - how close they came to confessing their feelings, how badly they wanted to kiss Cleo under the stars."

"I almost told you that night," "they whisper," "But I chickened out at the last minute."

"Aeris's eyes widen as Cleo takes their hands, her words washing over them like a soothing balm. They feel tears prick at the corners of their eyes - tears of relief and gratitude."

"I know," "they say hoarsely," "I just... I didn't want to risk losing you."

"Aeris squeezes Cleo's hands tightly, marveling at how right it feels to finally be honest with her."

"Thank you for being such an amazing friend," "they murmur," "For accepting me no matter what."

"Aeris's eyes widen in shock as they pull back from the hug, staring at Cleo in disbelief. Did she just...?"

"Wait," "they say slowly," "Are you saying what I think you're saying?"

"Hope and excitement start to bubble up inside Aeris but they try to tamp it down - they don't want to get their hopes up only for Cleo to tell them this is all a big misunderstanding."

"You like girls?" "they ask cautiously," "Like... more than friends?"