“…hey…”

“…yes dear?”

“…how’re you holding up?”

“…that’s a loaded question. Don’t ask me that.”

“…okay.”

Julia lay quietly next to Wess, watching as she tried to shield herself under the sheets of their shared bed. There wasn’t really enough room for both of them, but after what had gone down last night, she didn’t want to leave her alone.

After Wess’ video call and subsequent freak out, she very quickly headed to bed. The rest of the team only caught the tail end of it, coming in from a small barbeque outside with Milo and Dulce. Julia made a point to explain what happened, appropriately shocking everyone, before joining Wess in her room for the night.

It was already morning, as Julia started to get up, subtly eyeing Wess to check on her as much as possible.

“…I don’t have anything on today, if you want me to stay with you.” Julia offered, as Wess slowly turned over to face her.

“…worrying about me will just make me feel bad.” Wess admitted, sighing out. “It won’t undo what happened, after all.”

“We-“

“Vile leeches. Finally got their fill, I suppose.” Wess remarked, laughing nervously. “Well, good riddance! I suppose it’s time for a…reinvention! This is a celebration, after all!”

Instead of speaking, Julia just wandered back over to Wess, as she kept trying to cheer herself up.

“What’s more, I can’t even keep my last name!” Wess noted, visibly baffled. “I guess Essex manages. Maybe that’s my team persona, the cool loner wh-“

“Wess.” Julia said, grabbing her hand. “You’re allowed to admit it hurts.”

Wess locked eyes with her, as the energy left hers, letting her sink back into the bed and run her hands over her face, subtly covering her eye.

“…they were sick of me.” Wess admitted, facing Julia again. “And I was sick of them. What’s there to ruminate on?”

She fell back down, staring blankly at the ceiling. “…why does it hurt? Why do I have to feel it?”

Julia decided to lay beside her, before making somewhat of a bold declaration.

“…I don’t want you alone today. I want you to stay with at least one of us while you’re healing.” Julia stated, slowly getting up.

Wess realised what she was insinuating and sat up too. “Julia, I’m not going to relapse.”

“I know.” Julia assured, squeezing her hand comfortingly. “I just have to be sure.”

“…I can manage cravings fine.” Wess declared, standing up, before going to head out of the room and muttering under her breath. “Honestly…it’s not my first tragedy…”

Julia tried not to take it personally, as she went to follow her, and was greeted by the rest of the team, waiting outside of Wess’ room.

“Hey. We heard what happened.” Harley started. “Wess, I’m so sorr-“

“I’m not in the mood for sympathises. Move.” Wess insisted, as they took a confused second to part, letting her head for the kitchen.

Julia shared awkward glances with everyone, as they went after her, with Sola jumping ahead.

“Wess, I’m so so so sorry!” Sola insisted, as Wess stopped grabbing breakfast. “It was my idea. I didn-I thought you’d want t-“

“Sola, it’s fine.” Wess insisted, turning to address her despite her current mood. “You were trying to help in your own way.”

“But it didn’t! And you got hurt because of it!” Sola cried, hanging her head and trying to hide the tears that just ended up staining the floor. “And I said it…a-and then you and your parents…”

Wess breathed out, before joining Sola and taking her into her arms, letting her cry on Wess’ shoulder. “They would have done it sooner or later. Don’t blame yourself.”

Wess let go so she could properly face Sola. “You actually care about my wellbeing. That will always be more than they’ve ever done.”

Sola quietly nodded, wiping some snot away, as Harley came up to Wess, before offering a hug, as Wess obliged, more to get it over with than anything.

“Wess.” Essex stated, now feeling comfortable enough to step forward. “I have an offer for you.”

Wess’ interest was piqued. “An offer?”

“…I am starting a new class today. One I’m unfamiliar with, that you would be well suited for.” Essex said, as Julia’s eyes darted between Wess and Essex. “It might help you keep your mind off current matters.”

Wess could see Julia’s eyes light up at the suggestion, as Julia looked to Wess, pleading that she take it. Wess did her best to not let this influence her, but this was Julia after all.

“…if you think it would be a good distraction.” Wess regarded, now not looking at Julia, as Essex went to grab her scythe, before indicating to the main door.

“Have fun you two. And Wess.” Harley stated, heading to the kitchen, before pointing right at her. “Literally anything. No request too much, you got it?”

“Yes yes, you’ve made that painfully clear.” Wess replied, closing the door, as Julia and Harley shared a small glance, breathing in through their teeth.

“…it’s like when we first met he-“

“I was just about to say that!” Harley agreed, slamming her hand on the counter and pivoting to the kitchen table. “It’s like she’s regressed.”

Julia dragged herself over to the table to join Harley, as Sola watched Wess and Essex leave, right as Percy stepped out of her room after all the commotion.

She locked eyes with Sola, who stepped out of eyeshot of the others and beckoned her over.

Percy looked around awkwardly before joining her. [Hey, what’s up? Is Wess doing alright?]

[She’s okay, she’s with Essex. I need help with something and Harley looks busy.] Sola asked, as Percy leaned in. [I’m gonna buy Wess a Bestalow gift out in Detu City and bring it back here to surprise her.]

Percy tilted her head. [Why do you need my help?]

[Cause it’s heavy.]

Percy blinked, before looking up slightly and nodding to Sola.

“…s-sounds…cool…” Percy got out, giving a thumbs up, as Sola replied with one too, before dragging them both to the front door.

“Hey, we’re going shopping and won’t be back for most of the day so don’t wait up for us!”

“Have fun!” Harley yelled out, blowing Sola a kiss, as Julia waved to them too.

“Bye!” Julia just managed to get out before the door closed.

She sighed out heavily, as she pushed her chair out, rubbing her hands over her temples, with Harley watching her attempt to manage her stress.

As Julia worked at it, Harley came up from behind and wrapped her in a hug.

“You good, Julia?”

“…yeah.” She let out, as Harley let her go. “I’m just so worried about Wess right now…”

Harley nodded. “I feel ya. I’m worried this’ll push up all those walls we managed to break down…”

Harley raised her finger. “On the plus side though, good riddance. Delta and Iota fucking sucked.”

Julia silently agreed, as her demeanour reminded Harley of how she was after the attack.

Doing all that emotional heavy lifting…seeing Florey again must’ve done a number on her too… Harley realised. Poor girl…she needs a break.

Noticing Julia starting to get in her own head again, Harley wrapped her arm around her and grinned.

“Alright, clearly you need a good distraction. You’ve been a stress sponge since the attack, so I’ve got an idea to help wring you out.”

Harley pulled out her tablet and showed an advertisement for the Hammerbrazen Cocktail Lounge.

“It’s been literal ages since I went to a club, and I’m floating the invite your way to help you unwind.” Harley offered, as Julia eyes darted around nervously. “Super fun place, and there’s booze.”

“H-Harley, that’s not really my scene…” Julia admitted, as Harley grabbed her shoulders.

“I know, but I think trying something new’s gonna freshen you right up. And I’ll be right beside ya the whole time, so you don’t even have to worry.” Harley suggested, smiling widely. “Come on, let me help you out here.”

Julia could feel her instincts pushing against the offer, despite how nice an offer it was. She was almost about to say no, before quickly and suddenly remembering her promise and…

“…o-okay. That sounds…really fun.”

Harley nodded cheerily, only to take a beat and actually take in what Julia said a second later.

“Wait…you’re actually saying yes?”

“U-Uhuh.”

Harley’s face grew flush. “Wait, for real?! You wanna come along?!”

“Y-Yes! I already said I would!”

“WHAT?!” Harley let out, picking Julia up from her seat and spinning her around. “I thought you were gonna say no for sure!”

“I-I-I usually would, but I’ve been trying not to do that recently…also p-please put me down.” Julia insisted, as Harley plopped her on the kitchen counter.

“This is so cool! It’s like Bestalow came early! I’m gonna take your club virginity!” Harley cheered, as Julia threw her hands up.

“P-Please don’t phrase it like that, this is already way out of my comfort zone…” Julia confessed, covering her face, as Harley started to worry.

“Okay, sorry.” Harley apologised, before jabbing Julia’s arm. “But this is a big step for you. I’m really proud of you.”

Harley’s face perked up, as an idea crossed her mind. “And you’ll get to flirt with so many hotties. They’re gonna love you, trust me.”

“Harley, I-“ Julia went to argue, only for Harley to raise her eyebrows a bunch. “Harley, stop moving your eyebrows.”

“They can’t stop. They’re already in motion.” Harley teased, raising them more and more, as Julia face sunk into her hands again.

“…I feel like I made a mistake…”

———

“…now, I know a lot of people may ask, ‘what does textiles have to do with being a Venator? Don’t you just fight Wailing?’ and they’d be wrong! It’s a very underrated skill in the industry, and can cost you a small fortune if you don’t know the tricks of the trade.”

Spence clapped her hands together. “Most Venators actually sew their own clothing, whether they decide to make ‘uniforms,’ or work in their typical getups. Repairs are also pretty frequent, so the more you can handle on your own, the better!”

Spence waved her hand sheepishly to the class. “But enough gabbing from me. Just for today, we’ll be getting used to fabric and needles with some basic stitching. Now…”

She scanned over the class, looking at the mostly first-year students present, before spotting Essex.

“Essex. I believe this is your first textiles class, right?”

“Dal.” Essex replied, as Spence waited for a follow-up.

“…is that a yes?”

Essex nodded, as Spence gave a thumbs up. “Great! Learning is timeless, so I appreciate the interest, even this late into your degree!”

Her eyes glanced over to Wess, dejectedly sitting next to Essex.

“And are you part of this class, Wess?”

“She isn’t.” Essex answered. “She will be accompanying me.”

Spence shrugged and raised a finger to her lips. “Good thing I don’t mind sit-ins. We’ll just keep your attendance here our secret. Alright, get started everyone! I’m here if you need any help!”

The class split off to familiarise themselves with their fabric, as Essex went straight to work, with Wess beside her going at her own pace.

“…I’m surprised Saxin isn’t here.” Wess quietly remarked.

“She is taking more advanced classes. This is only a beginner one.” Essex replied, as Wess nodded in acknowledgment.

“Makes sense.” Wess replied, mostly focused on her needle, as Essex and her started working on their sewing privately.

After a few silent minutes, Wess had managed a couple decent looking patterns, before glancing over at Essex.

“…how’re you handling it?”

“…my prosthetic is…” Essex grunted, before dropping her needle again. “…it is fighting against me.”

Wess watched her pick it back up, now gripping the wrist of her prosthetic tightly with her other hand to try and move it, struggling to direct it.

She waited to see if Essex would figure it out, before deciding to put down her own needle and pull her chair out.

“Essex.”

Essex angrily tried clamping down on the needle again, before turning to Wess, as she patted her lap.

Essex looked a bit confused, as Wess stared at her, nodding her head over, before Essex decided to get up and follow.

She sat in between Wess’ legs, nestling in, as Wess reached her arms around to accompany Essex’s arms.

“Alright, now match me.” Wess stated, slowly taking her needle again, gently picking it up. “Go at whatever pace is most comfortable.”

Essex tried reaching over to the table again, before her prosthetic started to shake.

“Th-This is-“

“Just breathe, take your time.” Wess instructed, before resting her hand on Essex’s, helping her calm it. “You don’t need to fight it.”

Wess slowly guided Essex’s hand over, helping her pick up the needle again, before pulling it back over.

“You’re a practical thinker, Essex.” Wess explained, taking her needle in the proper grip. “So it’ll be easier with a demonstration. Now grip it like I am.”

Essex took a second, breathing like Wess had suggested, before slowly moving the fingers to match hers.

Essex let go of her breath, as Wess let out a smile.

“That was much smoother.” Wess complimented.

“…thank you.” Essex let out. “This is still an adjustment for me.”

Wess playfully scoffed. “With only one eye, this is about as much as I can manage at the moment. It’s taking all my concentration not to prick my fingers constantly.”

“…I suppose it would be safer than sword wielding as of right now.” Essex reasoned.

“Unfortunately…until I get back to…’semi-competent,’ I wouldn’t be very useful if I couldn’t help in these matters.” Wess let out, as Essex turned back to face her.

“You should not put yourself down like that.”

“…we all know I’m the weakest member of the team.” Wess admitted, sitting back. “No Whil, and hardly as much natural muscle as you or Harley. I scrape by on most fights, relying on the fact I have a sharp object that does the work for me.”

“A Venator who relies on a weapon is a knowledgeable Venator.” Essex added. “You have grown your skill through determination and effort. This is a setback, not the end of your growth.”

Wess kept quiet, silently ignoring the compliment, before deciding to speak up.

“…why did you want to take this class?”

Essex turned around fully, before sitting back on her own seat opposite Wess.

“…I learned it would be very useful to have someone who can sew within the team. It was a role no one else was covering, and it…wasn’t combat-related. I decided I needed something like that.” Essex admitted, shying away. “But…as of recent…I had an additional desire…”

Essex sighed out and closed her eyes before confessing.

“…I…wanted to make everyone some outfits.” Essex let out, surprising Wess. “Venator outfits, for when we’re out on hunts and…meeting fans, perhaps.”

“You?” Wess openly asked, as Essex nodded.

“I do not have great aesthetic sensibilities, but…in a way, this is my growth. It’s difficult, but a necessary skill, and something the rest of the team can aid me in. I…understand how important aesthetics are to you, so I want to do well.”

Wess found herself lost for words, as her respect for Essex had drastically jumped even higher than it already was, leaving her in a profound state of shock.

“…I…”

Wess stopped herself before continuing.

“…I don’t think I’ve been very fair to you.”

This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

Wess rested her fabric on the table, before trying to present herself properly.

“…you have gone out of your way to attempt to understand what’s important to me and parse subjects you’re unfamiliar with. I, on the other hand, have not extended the same curtesy.” Wess admitted, sighing out. “Even when I had the rare privilege of meeting with the Segaru Clan, I merely indulged in the festivities of Boncala Day instead of learning why they mattered so much to you.”

Essex stopped herself from refuting the point, as the shame on Wess’ face was enough to prove how much this meant to her.

“While…I’m not in the best of spirits right now…I will do what I can to help in your growth.” Wess assured, sharing a glance with Essex. “And in the future, I shall give you, and the things you value, the respect they deserve.”

“…I am…still learning what those are…” Essex confessed, before smiling back to Wess. “But I will be happy to let you know when I’ve found them.”

…perhaps this will distract my mind… Wess wondered, staring back at Essex again. …she truly is fascinating…

———

“Harley?”

“Yuh huh?”

“Umm…” Julia prefaced, as they stood in the line out the front of the Hammerbrazen Cocktail Lounge. “I’m gonna sound stupid for asking this, but can nightclubs be open in the middle of the day?”

“The cool ones can.” Harley assured, looking down at Julia. “And they’re just clubs at that point.”

“Oh.” Julia let out. “Cause I thought it was a little weird…”

“Yeah, cause you’re not used to it.” Harley insisted, leaning down to wrap her arm around Julia’s neck, as they moved to the front of the line. “Come on, who’s got your back?”

“You do?”

“And who’s gonna make sure you have fun?”

“You?”

“And who’s super sexy?”

“…I-I mean…do I have to say it?”

Harley grinned. “Just knowing you’re thinking it’s enough for me.”

Before Julia could attempt to refute it, Harley got a small wave from the bouncer, before being ushered in, as she beckoned Julia to follow her inside.

You couldn’t tell from the outside, but the atmosphere was loud. Bright lights, blaring trap music, less clothes and way more colours than Julia would’ve liked to see. It was a lot to take in for anybody, and by Julia’s metric, it hardly matched the very inappropriate name of Cocktail Lounge.

It took her ears a few moments to adjust, only now registering that Harley was a few steps ahead in a large crowd, and that a random guy had wandered up to her, shaking a bag of…stuff?

“-sen up?”

“…H-Huh?” Julia managed, now properly hearing him.

“Wanna get loosened up?” He insisted. “Forty for your first dose. Only way to party.”

As Julia tried to come up with a response somewhere between ‘no’ and ‘piss off,’ Harley realised Julia wasn’t following, before pivoting to intercept.

“She’s not interested.” Harley assured, grabbing Julia’s hand, before leading her through the crowd of people.

They found two recently vacated stools at the bar, as Harley went to squeeze Julia’s arm.

“Sorry, should’ve kept a better eye on you.” Harley said, pointing back to the guy. “They always try to push Ascent on the newbies.”

Julia took a second, slapping her cheeks to bring herself back into the moment. “…isn’t that a party drug?”

“Yep.” Harley replied, splaying her arms out. “Never touched the stuff, but it fucks you up.”

“Got it. Don’t touch it.” Julia reiterated, before glancing around them. “…sooo…what do we do now?”

Harley could see Julia was a little taken a back, before spotting the dancefloor behind her and getting a quick idea.

“You feel like dancing?” Harley asked, getting up quickly and pulling Julia up too. “I’ll lead.”

“U-U-Uhh-“ Julia managed, letting herself be dragged, as her nervousness going into a large crowd was only balanced out by her trust in Harley.

The moment they arrived, Harley started tearing it up, feeling out the music and swaying her body with the crowd around them, entirely in her element.

Before Julia could even attempt to get into her element, she was immediately thrown off by Harley getting closer to her, still dancing quite provocatively, before pushing against her fully, borderline grinding on her.

“H-Harley?!” Julia said, staring back at her.

“I’m just dancing, Julia! Don’t tell me you’re not enjoying it!” Harley insisted, throwing her back out, as the music got more intense around them.

Julia was having trouble not looking, still trying to avert her eyes, before Harley turned around and kept pressing up to her.

“This is what clubs are like! You better get used to it!” Harley encouraged, moving along with the music. “You can always sit back down, if you want!”

Harley spun back around, giving Julia a great view of her…well, needless to say, Julia could feel her heartbeat quickening with each passing second.

Despite her misgivings and previous apprehension, in an attempt to get out of her comfort zone, she slowly reached over to Harley, before resting her hands on her hips, trying to sway along to the music with her.

Feeling Julia’s hands on her, Harley found herself smiling at Julia taking a chance, as just from the movement alone, it was clear Julia was starting to get into it.

After a good long while of dancing together, they eventually pulled themselves back to the bar, with Julia immediately going to order.

“Julia, you were so feeling it.” Harley assured, visibly proud.

“Was I?” Julia let out, breathing a little heavy. “I feel like…I was probably the weakest dancer out there…”

Harley snickered. “It’s not a competition.”

Julia shook her head. “…I’m worried I just looked like your awkward plus one.”

Harley sat down next to her and grabbed her shoulders. “Are you kidding? I guarantee there’s plenty of people in here who’re crazy envious of you right now.”

“R-Really?” Julia let out, scanning around her nervously, as Harley nodded proudly.

“Oh yeah. The fact you’re with me, the hottest piece of ass in this place, means they’re probably seething right now.” Harley bragged, before spotting a few people further down the bar, visibly eyeing her up. “Then again, it seems we might have some competition for hottest…”

The bartender slid Julia’s cocktail down to her, as she went to grab it, before quietly sipping on it.

…even if it’s not entirely my thing… Julia thought, before looking to an elated Harley. …if it helps me know Harley better, then that’s fine by me…

———

“Get it while it’s hot! Team Swift in their daring bout against the Detu Dismantler! Now a package deal with the HyperMall Thrasher! Two of Detu City’s most infamous Wailing! Come and get ‘em!”

Having made their way all the way to Detu Central and into the HyperMall, Sola and Percy’s attention was briefly drawn to the Venator memorabilia store as they passed by, now handing out merch for the recent Wailing attack in Detu City.

Sola briefly spotted the owner outside of the store with a megaphone, before he spotted her too and waved happily.

“…d-do…” Percy tried, before feeling her throat hurt a little and switching to signing. [Do you know him?]

“Yeah! Since we helped beat the Wailing that attacked the mall a few years back, he gave us free stuff and discounts!” Sola exclaimed, pumping her fists. “Julia loves using it! She’s a huge nerd for this stuff!”

Percy nodded curiously, as her glance drifted to some of the merchandise, while Sola walked ahead.

“We better get a move on! It’s gonna be a long trip back!”

Sola stopped once she noticed Percy wasn’t following. She looked back and saw Percy with her face pressed to the glass, staring at the artists rendition of the ‘HyperMall Thrasher’ Wailing plastered on a shirt, fighting off Team Vivisect.

Sola noticed her crestfallen expression and joined her side. “What’s up?”

[…I helped bring that Wailing here.] Percy clarified. [It wouldn’t have attacked if…]

Percy noticed Sola looking worried and lifted herself up, before bowing slightly.

[Sorry, I know.] Percy apologised. [It wasn’t my fault. I had no choice.]

Sola quietly pointed in the direction of the J Store, as Percy remembered their plans and quickly followed behind her.

“…S…So…” Percy said to get Sola’s attention. [What’s the gift we’re getting Wess?]

Sola averted her eyes slightly and touched her fingers together.

“It’s, uhh…a fishtank.”

Percy blinked a few times, before walking ahead of Sola. [But she doesn’t have a fish.]

“Yeah, I know…there’s more behind it.” Sola admitted. “We got her one a few years back, but it was destroyed in the fire.”

Sola stopped herself. “Technically it was already broken before that, but then it got more broken until it wasn’t anything anymore.”

[…so we’re getting her a broken fish tank?]

“Well, I kinda wanna get her a fixed one now. Just as a…we care about you Bestalow gift. And that…things can get better, cause they don’t seem better right now.” Sola confessed, as Percy could feel just how much this seemingly innocuous gift really meant.

Noticing Sola’s slightly lowered mood, Percy decided to take a page out her book and run forward.

“…R-Race…you!” She yelled out, her throat kinda burning, as Sola saw the challenge and lit up.

“Yeah! You’re on!”

———

“…”

“…”

“…shit.”

Wess shook her hand, before sucking on one of her fingers, as Essex looked up from her sewing.

“…ineptitude.” Wess remarked under her breath. “Still pricking my finger like a moron…”

Essex took a second to move her chair in front of Wess, before taking Wess’ finger in her prosthetic hand and gently pushing on the wound with the metal, cooling it down somewhat.

“Essex, you needn’t coddle me.” Wess insisted. “It’s fine, I’ve felt much worse.”

Essex slowly reached out with her other hand, before holding Wess’ free hand gently.

“You’re allowed to admit when you’re hurt.”

Wess held her finger out, just as she found herself welling up a little at Essex’s statement.

“…very clever.” Wess let out, pulling her hand away. “This isn’t about me being disowned. I’ve already come to terms with that.”

“…that may be true…” Essex started, sitting back down. “But I think there’s still a lot unresolved in you.”

“Oh what, you’re my therapist now? Doctor Essex, is it?” Wess clapped back, as Essex look unperturbed.

“…you’ve offered me advice when I’ve needed it. I was merely extending the same curtesy.” Essex clarified. “…but you cannot help someone who doesn’t want to be helped themselves.”

Wess stayed silent, still focused on holding her finger.

“…may I…offer an opinion?” Essex asked, as Wess bit her tongue.

“…if you feel the need to do so.”

“…it took me a while to accept that people could care about me. Losing my family, the only people I thought could care for me, I assumed I would never find people like that again.” Essex declared, her hand on her chest. “And then Kent took me in, and…in her way…cared for me. Stood up for me when I needed it.”

Essex laid her hand out. “And then…I found you…and the rest of the team. I could be cared for. Family wasn’t blood, it was understanding.”

Essex rested her hand on Wess’ thigh. “…Delta and Iota never understood you. They never tried to, and they refused to learn what you needed.”

“…it wasn’t in their nature.” Wess confessed. “I accepted that a long time ago…”

“But someone did make that effort. He took the time to know you.” Essex insisted, as Wess immediately knew who she meant and raised her finger.

“Don’t you dare bring up Graham again. I know, alright? I understand. He cared for me.”

“…but it was more than that.” Essex continued. “When we first met him…I saw in him the love I should’ve seen from Delta and Iota.”

Wess’ face started to tremble, as she scowled while her eye welled up.

“…d-don’t you think I don’t know that already?” Wess sputtered, doing her best to keep her composure, as she gripped at her coat. “I haven’t seen him for over a year…despite those vampires finally ripping their fangs from me, I’m still not welcome back in Mareau to see him…”

“…you have talked about your love for Mareau and the Northern Wayside numerous times, but I…believe that part of you is missing right now.” Essex pointed out, as Wess shook her head.

“I’m a northerner at heart. That much hasn’t changed…but I don’t know if I was ever welcome there.” Wess explained, looking back up at Essex. “Look at me. Do I scream high society to you? Aren’t I a disappointment to everything I’m from?”

Essex vehemently shook her head. “In all of the time I’ve known you, you’ve never been a disappointment. You are a Venator. Julia’s partner. Very wise and…branding oriented. I have been curious about many things, and you’ve always been there to guide me with respect and patience. That’s…who you are.”

Essex admittedly bowed right there, before sitting back up to face Wess.

“So…thank you for being you.”

It took all of Wess’ remaining strength to not break down into tears immediately, only for her body to give out anyway, as she started weeping at the beautiful comment.

The rest of the class took notice, as Wess cried out loudly, with Essex bringing herself over to comfort her as best she could.

“…th-thank you…thank you…”

“It’s okay, Wess…there is no one in this world who doesn’t deserve love…”

———

“…so?”

“So what?”

“Anyone catch your eye?”

Julia’s eyes widened. “Harley, I’m dating Wess.”

Harley rolled her eyes. “I know. I’m saying to flirt with.”

Julia started leaning on the bar. “Why would I flirt if I’m already in a relationship?”

“For fun!” Harley insisted, getting up. “Just to do it! There’re too many beautiful people in this world for you to keep the appreciation to one.”

Harley snapped her fingers. “And it’s practice for Wess. Wess loves her social games, so why not do a little research and show off for her?”

After suddenly standing up, Harley felt some discomfort and quickly scoped out the bathroom.

“Whoa, those drinks went through me. Alright…” Harley prefaced, clapping her hands together. “I’m gonna head to the bathroom, and I want you to chat someone up here at the bar.”

“W-Wha?” Julia let out, throwing her hands up. “Harley, I-“

“Julia, you’re a complete smokeshow, super lovely and a future Venator.” Harley assured, as Julia almost felt paralysed by the compliments. “If there’s anyone who can charm the pants off these people, it’s you.”

Harley dashed off right after, leaving Julia nervous at the bar, before she called back to Harley.

“B-But not literally, right?!”

Harley made a beeline for the bathroom, ducking and weaving through the crowd, and occasionally sharing a brief word with a charming passerby, before hitting her destination, only to be blocked off right before entering.

“Hey there.” A woman said, chewing gum loudly, even over the music. “You look like fun.”

Harley’s eyes sunk, as she noticed the small group of Ascent dealers hanging right outside the bathroom, a few visibly high out of their gourd.

“You could always have more fun though.” She offered, as Harley glared at her, before trying to pass.

“No thanks, I don’t take that shit.” Harley stated, only for the dealer to get in her way again.

“What, too good for it?”

“No, I’ve just had friends who tried it and had some really bad trips.” Harley explained, leaning down to her. “And I don’t need you preying near the bathroom, looking for easy marks.”

The dealer eyed Harley up, still chewing her gum. “Oh yeah? You a…what, fuckin’ local hero type? Cleaning up the streets?”

Harley noticed the other dealers getting a little antsy in their seats, as she assessed her best option, as well as what she wanted to do to these guys.

“…is she gonna be disappointed if I just sit here?” Julia wondered aloud, trying to look at other people, before immediately averting her gaze when she locked eyes with someone. “She knows I’m anxious. When’s she getting back?”

She lifted her head up, and right as Julia caught a glimpse of Harley, she could see her held up outside of the bathroom, as Julia tried her best to get a read of the situation.

“Is she flirty w-“

“Hey there, hot stuff.”

Julia turned around worriedly at the sudden new voice, before finding an absurdly attractive woman leaning on the bar, visibly eyeing her up with no subtly.

“You look a bit lost. Mind if I grab you a drink?” She offered, as Julia could feel her body starting to burn up.

“U-U-Uhh, no th-thank you, I alread-“

“Can I be honest, I find you so good looking. Not a lot of cuties like you wander into a place like this. Careful, a couple lionesses might just eat you up.” She remarked, giggling after, as Julia could feel her heart beating rapidly.

Oh my gods, she’s so hot. Julia couldn’t help thinking, looking back to where Harley was. Don’t get distracted, don’t get nervo-

“I saw you and your friend earlier. Seems I’ve got some competition.” She joked, laughing a little, as Julia laughed far too awkwardly in response, before forcing herself to turn her attention back to Harley.

“Y-Yeah, she’s a real…u-uhh…she…is…competitive.” Julia got out, as she started to register the unfriendly faces of the people around Harley, who were beginning to close in on her.

Oh no. Julia started to realise, as the woman leaned forward.

“Honey, am I not enough for you? Is that friend of yours just too alluring?”

Julia turned back to her and gave an admittedly unnerving smile. “Y-Yeah, well, I…uhh, yes! Yes! She’s, uhh…party animal. I have to reign her in, or else she gets…out of control. Like a…wild horse. A party…h-horse…party brumby. In a horse club.”

Julia was ready to leave to avoid any further embarrassment, only for the woman to grab her attention.

“Hold on, dear.” She said, as Julia quickly turned back to her, before she took out a small slip of paper and slipped it in between Julia’s cleavage. “If you or your friend ever get a little lonely.”

Julia’s blush couldn’t contain itself, as she avoided eye contact and swiftly made her exit, with the woman giggling at how cute she was. Julia tried to keep a cool head as she entered into whatever Harley was a part of, while grabbing the slip of paper and pocketing it.

Of all the times to be flirted with…my gay heart can’t take that kind of attention… Julia confessed, shaking her head and slowing her breathing. Just grab Harley and leave…this place is too much for me…

As she wormed her way through the crowd, the scene was made much clearer, as what Julia surmised as more drug dealers were getting in Harley’s face, with Harley holding back from lashing out at them.

“It’s just for having a good fucking time! What’s your problem?!” A dealer yelled, as Harley held her tongue. “You hate people enjoying themselves?”

“I know what you mix in that shit.” Harley spat, leaning down so he could see just how bulky she was. “You make me sick, you know that?”

Julia was already on edge, but the moment she saw the flash of a gun in one of the dealer’s pockets, she stepped in by grabbing Harley’s arm and pulling her away, waving the dealers off.

“So sorry about her, long day of training’s got her real agitated!” Julia exhausted, taking Harley into an aside out of earshot.

She pulled her down. “Harley, context.”

Harley huffed out and folded her arms. “…they tried to sell me shit, and I was just making my feelings about them clear. I know, I know, don’t start figh-“

Julia raised a finger to quiet her, before subtly pointing her attention to the armed dealer.

“Now’s not the time. Realistically, if you were to start fighting them, what’re the chances of getting out of this?” Julia stated, as Harley was a bit thrown off, scratching her chin.

“…uhh, forty percent, if they’re pulling their punches.” Harley admitted, before locking eyes with Julia and sighing. “Come on, Julia, you know they deserve it.”

Julia kept her gaze focused on Harley, still staring with determination, as Harley broke eye contact.

“Alright, alright, deescalate…” Harley muttered, before facing the dealers again, only for them to clearly not be on speaking terms.

“Seems we’ve got a little superhero ready to defend the poor partygoers.” The dealer teased, before Julia kept pulling her and Harley away.

“We didn’t mean to upset you, we’ll just be on our way.” Julia assured, only to turn around and run into a few more behind them.

“We’re not stupid.” The dealer insisted, only for Harley to grab the dealers blocking them and bash their heads in, before making a sprint with Julia. “HEY!”

The duo burst through the crowd, heading right for the main entrance, as a couple of the more agitated dealers chased after them.

Once they hit the entrance, Julia and Harley tried to make distance, clearing as much space between them and the cocktail lounge, before one of the dealers emerged from the building and pulled out his pistol.

Before he could get a shot off, the bouncer intercepted and tackled him to the ground, giving Julia and Harley enough time to disappear, heading back in the direction of Julia’s house.

After a few more minutes of running, they took a second to catch their breath, clearly still wound up by everything that went down.

The first one to speak was Julia, who let out a massive held breath.

“Hoo nelly!” Julia let out, throwing her arms out, before falling to the ground. “That…was a lot…”

“You’re telling me.” Harley said, sitting next to her, before smacking her arms. “Thanks for the heads up. That was some crazy composure you had back there.”

Julia looked at Harley. “Really?”

“Yeah. You were just, like, laser focused on getting out safe and quick.” Harley said, standing back up, before pulling Julia to her feet. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so…tranquil’s not the right word, but you know what I mean.”

“…huh. I guess I was…” Julia said, only now realising it herself, before acknowledging it was basically the evening now. “How long were we in there?”

“Uhh, good question. It’s pretty easy to lose track of time in clubs like that.” Harley said, pointing in front of them. “Let’s head back. It’s been a big day.”

As they started walking, Julia stopped Harley for a second, before reaching into her pocket.

She pulled the small slip of paper out. “…I’m only bringing this up because it’ll make you happy, but a really hot lady flirted with me and gave me her number…”

Julia stopped briefly, blushing overtly, as she pointed down her shirt.

“…by putting it in between…this place…”

“What?!” Harley cried. “She slipped it in your tits?!”

“H-Harley! Don’t call them tits!” Julia let out, clearly embarrassed.

“That’s what they are!” Harley insisted, before grabbing up Julia excitedly. “What did I tell ya? Certified babe magnet!”

“…o-okay, whatever.” Julia said, before handing the slip to Harley. “She said she was interested in you too, and since it’s not really my bag…”

“Yoink!” Harley let out. “Julia, you’re the best and I love you. I’m taking you out every time I go clubbing.”

Please no. Julia wished, as Harley’s grin grew, before she thought back on the club and toned herself down.

“…hey, I’m…sorry for being pushy today.” Harley let out, rubbing her neck. “I only just kinda hit how much that all would’ve been for you.”

Harley shook her head. “None of the others really fit this vibe either, so it’s not like I can invite people out much. I might’ve been tryna force you to be…I dunno, more outgoing?”

“…that’s a…good thing to force me to be.” Julia posited, as they kept walking. “It was certainly different. I don’t know if I’ll do it again, but it was nice hanging out with you in a place you’re really into.”

Julia giggled a little. “And you nearly beat up a bunch of drug dealers.”

Harley laughed too. “I think I would’ve come out of that looking pretty pathetic…”

“Well, I don’t think that’s possible.” Julia insisted, grinning. “You might think I’m a smokeshow, but you’re the whole package.”

Harley could feel herself cracking a smile, trying her best not to come off too awkwardly to Julia.

“Come on now…”

“I mean it. If you’re gonna layer compliments on me, I’m gonna do the same to you. Hot, funny, smart…s-sexy, bold and outgoing, c-“

“Okay, okay…” Harley let out.

Harley wasn’t even making an effort to pretend she was hiding her blushing, as she turned away from Julia fully, getting a laugh out of her.

As they kept walking back, Harley finally let herself calm down, staring back at Julia, sweetly walking beside her, just minding her own business and glancing around the city streets as they headed back.

It was all she could do not to start smiling again as Julia’s pleasant demeanour was on full display.

As Harley saw her opportunity, she leaned down to Julia’s face, before pressing her lips to Julia’s and kissing her, separating soon after.

“Wha-“ Julia stammered, touching her lips.

Harley replied by grinning back at her, before continuing to walk, as Julia’s face started flushing.

“Harley!” Julia blurted out. “Y-You can’t just do that out of nowhere!”

“Why not?” Harley teased, happily skipping.

“Tha-we’re both…why’d you do that?!” Julia tried, only for Harley to keep skipping, still avoiding her questions. “Harley! Answer me! Why’d yo…”

———

“…”

“…”

“…”

Essex lay quietly, gently sleeping on Julia’s couch with subtle breaths.

Wess, also, had found herself on the couch, pinned underneath Essex as she rested on top of her.

After their fairly heavy class at the academy, they both decided a rest was very much needed once they got home and ended up lying on the couch together.

At this point, it had been about twenty minutes since Wess realised Essex was asleep and decided not to disrupt her rest, even if her legs were starting to cramp. Admittedly, the closeness was appreciated, and something she hadn’t really shared with anyone aside from Julia.

Wess softly parted some hair from Essex’s face, as the front door suddenly opened up, with Sola and Percy trying to sneak inside, only to find Wess staring right up at her.

“Wess! Wha-“

Wess raised a finger, before indicating down to Essex, as Sola peered over the couch and put two and two together.

“When did you get back?” Sola quietly asked, as Percy started pulling the fishtank inside, only to notice Wess and immediately push it back out.

“Not too long ago. We…were a touch emotional during class, so we headed back home.” Wess explained, as Percy started explaining to Dulce outside that they didn’t need help pushing it inside. “Where were you and Percy off to?”

“U-Uhh…Bestalow…shopping.” Sola admitted, as Dulce pushed ahead of Percy, insisting it was fine if she took care of it. “So no peeki-“

“Hey, just leaving this here. Ol’ humble Percy didn’t want any help!” Dulce remarked, leaving the fishtank right out in the open, before folding her arms. “Like we haven’t heard that story before.”

Dulce gave a quick salute and headed back out, as Percy avoided eye contact coming inside and closing the door.

Wess stared in surprise, as Sola did her best to cover it up.

“Sola?”

“Wai-!” Sola started, only for Essex to stir from her sleep. “…you weren’t…”

Sola gave up and stepped aside, showing it off.

Wess took a second to take it in, before trying to get up and get a better look. Doing her best to not wake Essex up, she slid herself out from the couch, before walking over to the gift and joining Sola’s side.

“Did you spend your day getting this gift for me?” Wess openly asked, as Sola tried to avoid direct eye contact.

“…well, you were so bummed recently, and your old one got destroyed…” Sola explained. “…so I wanted to replace it and give you one as a Bestalow gift…but…well, you’ve already seen it, so you can just have it now…”

Wess walked around the admittedly sizeable tank, about as big as the old one, bringing back memories of why she even kept it in the first place despite its ruinous nature.

Clearly thinking through some things, she headed over to the couch and grabbed the TV remote.

As Sola tried to figure out what she was doing, Wess lined up the remote with the side of the glass and smashed through the side of it, glass falling to the floor.

Like a bullet, Essex shot up from the couch after the smash, still dazed and blinking awkwardly, before scanning her surroundings and sinking back down to keep sleeping.

Wess took a second, as she put the remote back and stood next to Sola again.

“Thank you, Sola. This is a beautifully honest gift.” Wess said, welling up a little, as Percy on the sidelines admittedly started to tear up too.

As Wess and Sola started moving it to Wess’ room, Percy rested on top of the couch, now fully getting this strange little interaction.

…I guess you can’t put broken glass back together, huh? Percy realised, staring down at Essex sleeping. …looks like we’ve got that in common…