A new day dawns. Kate and Ashley are already awake, the party's echoes trailing off into a quiet morning. Ashley peeks into Kate's room, finding her friend getting ready, a secret smile playing on her lips.
(A)Hey you, good morning, you look pretty happy.
(K)Good morning, I’m very happy today.
(A)Did you sleep okay? I can tell you were pretty tuckered out after dancing so much.
(K)[smiles] Yeah, I slept fine. I had so much fun yesterday. Especially when…
Kate stops for a second, a grin appearing on her face. She realizes she hasn't mentioned what happened with Merig at the square. Ashley notices Kate's smile and raises an eyebrow, silently asking what happened. Kate looks at Ashley, still smiling, and a bit flustered, as she gets ready to tell her friend some good news.
(K)Oh, that’s right, I forgot to tell you.
(A)Tell me what?
(K)You were right…it happened.
(A)Wait, what are you talking about? What happened?
(K)Merig confessed.
(A)[gasp] See, I told you he would! Kate, that’s wonderful news. Oh, my god, this is a big deal for you.
(K)I know, I honestly couldn’t believe it. He was very reluctant to tell me, though.
(A)Really, but why? He had everything planned out and talked to Larry and me about how and when he was finally going to tell you and what he was going to say.
(K)He was scared to tell me for the same reason as me. He thinks he's not good enough to be with me since he's a goblin and I'm human. And he didn't think I felt the same for him. But I told him otherwise.
(A)That's so sweet, Kate, Merig is an idiot, Larry and I have been encouraging him to tell you how he feels, but he's always so hesitant. I confess, I've known about his true feelings for a long time and didn't want to tell you. I wanted you to hear it from him.
(K) I understand. I was really hoping he’d finally tell me. If I'm being honest, it was worth hearing it from him. He held my hand when he told me, I thought it was the sweetest thing. And I gave him a kiss on the cheek before we came back. He told me I was beautiful like the moon and he was so sweet to me.
(A)I really love that for you, Kate. I'm so happy for you two. So what now?
(K)I'm not sure, we didn't exactly get that far before going back to the party. So we haven't really talked about it yet. I guess we just wait and see what happens.
(A)That's all you can do is wait, but you two are perfect for each other, in my opinion. I wish nothing but the best for you both and if you need any advice, I'm here.
(K)Thanks, Ash, I gotta leave and go see Donna. She asked me at the party last night if I could go to her place today. She needs my help with something.
(A)Okay, we'll meet at the pub when you're done, if you want. And hey, would you mind going to the market today? There are a few things we need.
(K)Yeah, I already planned on it. I need some things as well. I'll meet you at the pub when I'm done at Donna's. I shouldn't be too long.
(A)Alright, I'll make a list and have it for you when you get there. I have to get ready to go do some guard work.
(K)Alright, I’ll see you later.
After getting themselves prepped for the day, Ashley and Kate head out the door together. Ashley, in her uniform, strides off towards her Royal Guard duties, while Kate heads in the opposite direction to Donna's house. Inside, Donna and Kate settle at the dining table, and their conversation focuses on the reason for Kate's visit.
(D)Thank you so much for coming here, Kate. I'm really sorry if I’m taking time out of your day, but I needed to ask you a favor. I just need a few things from the market if you're okay with going shopping for me. You know how the kids are in public. I can't take them anywhere sometimes. Plus, Millie has come down with something and she’s sick. I think it was from all the fun she had at the party last night, so I need to stay here and take care of her, and the twins are sleeping.
(K)Oh, of course, Donna, I understand your situation. I can do that for you. It's no problem at all. Luckily, I have to go to the market for a few things anyway, so there's no reason why I can't help you out. And if you want, I can even come back and help you cook while you tend to Millie.
(D)Oh no, you don't have to do that, you're already doing my shopping for me and I can't put any more of a burden on you.
(K)It's no burden at all, Donna. I know it's been hard for you since your husband passed away, and you and the kids mean a lot to me since you've helped me in the past as well.
Donna offers Kate a trembling smile, her eyes glistening as she fights back tears. Kate, sensing her friend's distress, leans in and offers a hug. Donna clings to Kate, her sobs muffled against Kate's shoulder. After a moment, Kate gently pulls back and pulls out a tissue, handing it to Donna to dry her face.
(D)Thank you, you're a sweetheart, Kate. I couldn't have gotten through these past few months without you since George's death. The kids were so devastated as well and it was hard for all of us. I swear if it wasn't for you, I would've killed myself a long time ago.
(K)Please don't say that Donna, your kids need their mother, and if there's anything I can do to help, I will.
(D)Thank you, love, you've been such a blessing to me and the kids and if you need anything at all, you just ask, okay?
(K)Don't worry about me. I care more about you and the kids, Donna.
(D)You’re an angel, Kate. I don’t know what myself or the rest of Tara would do without someone like you.
(K)[smiles] You’re too kind. I just help people because I care about them, that’s all.
(D)Well, you’re a blessing, and we’re so lucky to have you.
(K)You’re a blessing, too, Donna.
(D)Also, I couldn’t help but notice you and Merig looked very happy when you both came back to the pub last night after going outside. I was worried he had kidnapped you or something.[giggles]
(K)[giggles] Oh no, we just talked. He gave me this necklace as a birthday gift, and it glows under the full moon so we went to the square. Sure enough, it glows bright and beautiful and it’s amazing to see.
(D)Oh, that’s wonderful, Kate, how sweet of him to give that to you. It’s a beautiful necklace.
(K)It really is, and the best part is…Merig also confessed that he loves me.
(D)[gasp] Finally, it only took him an entire year. That goblin has been so smitten by you and we’ve all been telling him to come clean about his feelings.
(K)That’s exactly what Ashley told me. I’m really happy and I told him I love him too.
(D)Oh, I bet you’re both sitting on cloud nine right about now. I’m so happy for you two. Everyone sees how sweet you are with each other and I was waiting for the day that you two hit it off. Better late than never, right?
(K)[smiles] You’re absolutely right, and my heart has just been a flutter since he told me. He thought I wouldn’t love him because he’s a goblin, but I told him I didn’t mind at all.
(D)Oh, he’s silly. We told him you didn’t care one bit, and we tried so hard to tell him that he had charmed you. But he was just so convinced that you didn’t love him because he’s a goblin.
(K)Well, I told him that he was wrong and that I grew up living with Fomors in peace. This entire time I’ve known Merig, I’ve never had a problem with the fact that he’s a goblin. It’s never bothered me. He’s the sweetest, and he’s so good to me, and that’s why I love him.
(D)You’re both sweethearts and you’re perfect for each other. I look forward to seeing you two happy together.
(K)You’re sweet, Donna, thank you. I’m not exactly sure if we’re officially together yet. We haven’t really discussed it since we had to go back to the party last night before we could.
(D)It will happen in time, dear, confessing your feelings was the first step. Next, you’ll be spending time together and maybe even go on a date.
(K)[giggles] I’m kind of hoping he asks me on a date, I’d be over the moon.
(D)I’m sure you would be, maybe ask him to spend some time with you today, that would be good for the both of you.
(K)That’s a good idea, I could ask him to join me at the market. He’s always been willing to help me. All I have to do is ask. But I don’t like being a bother to him.
(D)Oh, you are never a bother to him, love, that goblin would move mountains for you if he had the strength to.
(K)[smiles] You’re probably right.
The conversation flows easily, punctuated by bursts of laughter between Kate and Donna. Kate lingers a bit longer, catching up with her friend before finally heading out. Donna hands her a list of errands with a smile. Kate makes her way to the pub, expecting to meet just Ashley. But as she pushes open the door, she sees not just Ashley, but Larry, too. He's slumped at their usual spot, head buried in his hands, an ice pack precariously balanced on top. Ashley throws him a look of clear disapproval, shaking her head as Kate approaches.
(K)Hey, you two.
(A)Hey, you.
(K)You okay, Larry? You look a little hungover.
(L)I’ll be fine, don’t worry about me.
(A)[sigh] I told you to slow down on the drinks last night. This is the same shit you did last year. You never listen to me.
(L)Yeah, yeah, just please keep it down and don't talk so loud. My head hurts.
(K)I’m sorry, Larry, I’d give you painkillers if I had any.
(L)It’s okay, I’ll ask Merig if he has any when he gets here.
(A)So did you go see Donna? Is everything okay?
(K)Yeah, funny enough, she asked me to go shopping for her at the market. Millie is sick, so she asked me to get a few things for her. I figured I’d do that and do our shopping at the same time. Did you make the list?
(A)Yeah, do you want me to go with you? I can help.
(K)Nah, it's fine, I'll be okay.
(A)Alright, then.
Ashley reaches into her pocket, pulls out a crumpled list, and hands it to Kate. Kate takes it, shoving it into her own pocket without breaking stride. The pub door swings open, and Merig enters, a wide grin plastered on his face. He spots his friends, shuts the door behind him, and strides towards their table. As he gets closer, he sees Kate standing there. He reaches out and gently rests a hand on her back, a silent gesture of his presence. Kate's posture changes, a spark of recognition igniting in her eyes. They turn towards each other, sharing a knowing smile as Merig leans in to speak softly.
(M)Good afternoon, Kate.
(K)Good afternoon, Merig.
(A)Hey, Merig.
Larry hears Merig's voice. Merig peers down at Larry, who is still clutching his head in pain with the ice pack pressed against it. Larry strains, trying to look up at his best friend. He holds the ice pack firmly in place to keep it from falling off. His voice is low and raspy as he manages to speak, his face etched with pain.
(L)Hey, pal.
(M)Hey, buddy, do you need some painkillers for that headache?
(L)Yeah, I was going to ask you if you had any.
(M)I sure do.
Merig digs into his pocket, retrieves a small pouch, and slides it across the table toward Larry. Larry pushes himself up slowly, reaches out with a trembling hand, and snatches the pouch. He sinks back down, fumbles with the opening, peers inside, and then extracts a small tablet, which he pops into his mouth. Larry extends the pouch back to Merig, who takes it and returns it to his pocket.
(M)I thought you might need that, buddy, so I brought some just in case.
(L)Thanks, pal, you're a lifesaver.
(M)No problem at all, that’s what I’m here for.
(K)I feel terrible. I’m really sorry I kept you guys up so late last night.
(M)Don’t be sorry, we had a lot of fun, especially this asshole over here.
(L)[glare] Hush you, my head is splitting and you’re talking too loud.
(M)Besides, we know you would do the same if it was one of our birthdays.
(K)[smiles] Yeah, you’re not wrong.
(A)Yeah, don’t even worry about it, Kate, Larry just needs to learn how to not drink so much.
(L)Yeah, yeah, just mock my pain, why don’t ya? I had fun, damnit.
(A)There is such a thing as having too much fun, especially when you’re drinking. You just don’t know when to stop.
(L)Yeah, you’re right, I guess I have no one to blame but myself.
(A)Then maybe it’s time to stop drinking so much.
(L)Maybe you’re right.
(M)So what’s your plans for the day, Kate? You look like you’re going somewhere.
(K)Actually, yeah, I'm about to head out to the market. Donna asked me to do some shopping for her, and I have a few things to get for the house, as well.
(M)Sounds like fun. Are you going alone?
(A)[smiles] Actually, Kate was gonna ask you to go with her, Merig.
(M)Really?
Merig directs his gaze to Kate, who swivels her head towards Ashley. Ashley's smile falters slightly, surprise flickering across her face at Kate's words. A gentle nod and a soft smile pass between Kate and Ashley as Ashley considers her friend's statement. Understanding dawns on Ashley's face, and she returns the smile. Kate looks back at Merig, her voice brimming with excitement as she begins to speak.
(K)Yeah, do you want to go with me?
(M)Yeah, definitely, I’d be more than happy to. I can help you carry things if you need it.
(K)That would be a big help, Merig, thank you. I was actually just about to leave.
(M)Okay, I'm ready to leave when you are.
(K)Alright then, we'll be back later, you two.
(A)Okay, hon, you two have fun and we’ll see you later.
(K)See ya.
Flushed with satisfaction, Ashley playfully waves goodbye to Kate and Merig as their backs disappear towards the pub's exit. Her gaze lingers on them for a moment before she redirects it towards Larry. He's slumped over the table, face buried in his arms to block out the harsh light. With a sigh, he shifts the ice pack to the back of his head. Ashley can't help but roll her eyes at his self-inflicted misery. A flicker of sympathy tempers her amusement, and she reaches out, placing a hand on his back and gently rubbing it in a soothing circle.
(A)Feeling any better, yet?
(L)[muffled] Getting there.
(A)It’ll be okay, you can take a nap here and you’ll feel better soon.
(L)[muffled] Way ahead of you.
Stepping out of the pub and into the bustling street, Kate and Merig head for the market. As they navigate the crowds of people, Merig falls silent, turning a thought over in his mind. He steals a glance at Kate, formulating his words before initiating a conversation.
(M)So is everything okay with Donna?
(K)Yeah, Millie is sick, so Donna asked me to get a few things for her so she can stay home and take care of her. I even told her I’d stay and cook for her, but she told me not to worry and insisted on doing it herself. But I told her it was no problem, and I'd cook while she takes care of Millie.
(M)Oh no, that doesn't sound good. But it’s really nice of you to help her. You’re always willing to help people in need, Kate, and I admire that.
(K)Yeah, I started helping her more often when her husband passed away from an illness. My heart broke for her and the kids. They were all so devastated.
(M)Yeah, that was tragic. I’m sure it’s difficult for her since she’s now raising those kids alone.
(K)It‘s very tragic, and I feel terrible for her and the kids. It really got to Donna, mentally, and I did everything I could to lift a weight off her shoulders while she and the kids were grieving. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t shed tears with her.
(M)You’re a kind-hearted person to do things for her and those kids. I can’t imagine what she went through.
(K)Thankfully she’s doing a lot better, now, she only asks me to do small things here and there but overall, she’s improving.
(M)That’s good to hear, so where do we go first?
(K)Over to the bakery. I gotta get some things there.
(M)Alright, you lead the way.
Kate and Merig keep walking, heading straight for Sunrise Bakery, the shop owned by Charlotte. They reach the entrance and push open the door, stepping inside. The bakery is quiet and empty, with not a single person in sight. Kate glances around, then calls out to see if anyone is there.
(K)Charlotte, are you here? It’s me, Kate.
Kate waits patiently, the silence hanging heavy in the air. Then, a burst of movement from the back room draws her attention. A cheerful middle-aged woman with shoulder-length burgundy hair emerges, her eyes lighting up upon seeing Kate. The woman's smile is wide and welcoming.
(CH)Oh hi, Kate, it’s good to see you. Donna told me you’d be coming!
(K)Yeah, she asked me to grab some things for her. I need some things for myself as well, so I don’t mind helping her out.
(CH)Sure thing, I’m so sorry I wasn’t in here. I’m working on a few things in the back.
This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
(K)No worries at all. I understand you’re busy here. I also brought some help with me.
(CH)Oh hey, Commander Flynn, it’s good to see you, too. Still keeping the city safe from those pesky bandits, huh?
(M)Yes Ma’am, I took the day off yesterday for Kate’s birthday party.
(CH)Oh, that’s right, how was your birthday party last night, Kate?! I’m so sorry I missed it, I’ve been so busy, but I sent my love for Donna to pass on to you.
(K)No need to apologize, Charlotte. I had a great time with everyone. Donna told me you couldn’t make it and I completely understand. Oh, and Merig gave me this necklace as a gift. Isn’t it just gorgeous? It’s shaped like the moon.
(CH)Oh honey, it’s so beautiful, it’s absolutely perfect for you. How about this? Anything you need in the shop today, it’s on me.
(K)Oh no, you don’t have to do that, Charlotte.
(CH)Hey, it’s the least I can do since I missed your birthday party. Think of it as my gift to you.
(K)Are you sure?
(CH)I’m positive, sweetheart, you’re the only person I’d do that for.
(K)[smiles] You’re the sweetest, Charlotte, thank you so much.
(CH)Think nothing of it, Kate, you’ve also been a big help to me and my bakery, so you’re my most valued customer and a very good friend to me. I remember when one of my workers left me, and you came in and helped me fill orders here at the shop and even made deliveries for me. If it weren’t for you, I would’ve had to close down the bakery.
(K)It was nothing at all. I couldn’t just sit back and watch you struggle to keep your shop afloat.
(CH)Well, thanks to you, it gave me time to find a new worker. I’ll never forget it. Oh, I also heard about you and Merig. Congratulations to you both!
Charlotte perks up, a wide smile breaking across her face as she looks excitedly at Merig and Kate. The two lock eyes in surprise, their cheeks flushing a bright red. They glance back at Charlotte, bashfulness creeping into their expressions, and offer nervous grins. Kate, with a sheepish laugh, speaks up, her voice laced with nervousness.
(K)It seems there’s no keeping secrets around here.
(CH)[laughs] Not in Tara there isn’t, you know there’s no such thing as secrets here. But I’m so happy for you both. It must have taken a lot of courage to confess your love for each other.
(M)[chuckles] Yeah, it took a lot of confidence. It was honestly a surprise that she even felt the same for me.
(CH)I’m not surprised one bit. This woman is head over heels for you, Merig. It should’ve been obvious to you, it was to everyone else. Although it was obvious that you were both head over heels for each other.
(M)I guess I had to find out for myself. It wasn’t easy, and I felt as if my heart was going to burst from my chest. That’s how nervous I was.
(K)Yeah, I felt the same way. My stomach was all in knots, and I wasn’t expecting him to confess.
(CH)Love is a beautiful thing, you two, but it can also scare the shit out of people, so I understand. And hey, Kate is a wonderful woman, so you’ve got yourself a keeper. Be good to her, Merig, you hear me?
(M)Yes Ma’am, I wouldn’t dream of hurting her. I was just worried she didn’t feel the same because of…appearances, that’s all.
(K)Oh, Merig has always been so good to me, Charlotte, no need to worry. I told him I couldn’t care less if he was a goblin.
(CH)Hey, don’t worry about your physical differences. At the end of the day, it’s the love you have for each other that matters and it’s what’s on the inside.
(K)Exactly! You have words of wisdom.
(CH)[smiles] I just help where I can. You two are so cute together. Well, I gotta get back to work. You let me know when you’re ready and I’ll bag everything you need for you.
(K)Will do, and thank you again, Charlotte.
(CH)For you dear, anytime at all.
The two women share a smile as Charlotte turns and strides towards the back of the shop, and back to her work, she goes. Kate and Merig, now alone, dive into their shopping adventure. They browse and pick out their treasures, finally reaching the counter with their chosen treats. Charlotte, efficient as ever, bags everything up. With a final goodbye, she sends them on their way. Out they go, Merig burdened with the spoils of their bakery raid, ready to conquer their next adventure.
(M)Alright, where to now?
(K)The butcher, but that’s a bit of a walk. Are you sure about helping me?
(M)Of course, it’s no problem at all, you lead the way.
(K)Alright, let’s get going then.
Merig carries the hefty bag of groceries onto his left arm as he falls into step beside Kate. They weave through the crowds of people, heading towards the butcher shop, a comfortable silence settling between them. Suddenly, they turn to each other, faces breaking into matching smiles. Kate, seizing the moment, leans in to speak.
(K)I wanted to thank you again for going with me on this trip, Merig. I owe you a lot and you’re a big help to me and Donna.
(M)It’s no problem, Kate, I’m always here to help you if you need it.
(K)We also need to go to the produce shop if that’s okay. I’m looking for something special, and I hope they have it there. I also need herbs, but I can always forage for them.
(M)I can go foraging with you if you need it.
(K)I better not, since we’re already here at the market.
(M)I am curious, though, if Charlotte heard about what happened last night…I wonder how many more people know.
(K)I thought the same thing when Charlotte said she heard about it. No one followed us to the square that I know of, and the streets were empty. So I wonder how Charlotte even found out.
(M)It’s possible that we weren’t completely alone. But that’s okay. I don’t care if anyone else knows. The whole world can know that I love you for all I care.
(K)[smiles]. My thoughts exactly, Merig, I feel the same way. I’m just shocked that it spread like wildfire.
(M)Well, that’s pretty much how everyone knows about how you help others who need it. You helped one person and they tell the people that they know, and those people tell others that they know. And after a while, everyone knows, then you helped more people, and then just about everyone in the entire city knew who you were.
(K)That seems like the logical explanation. But again, for others to know what happened last night, someone would’ve had to see us out at the square. And like you, I’m kind of curious.
(M)True, but I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough. I wouldn’t worry too much.
(K)Of course not, let’s just enjoy the day for now.
(M)[smiles] As long as I’m spending it with you, I’m always enjoying myself.
(K)[smiles] I enjoy spending time with you as well, Merig.
The two make their way towards the butcher shop, with Merig a steady presence at Kate's left. After a few minutes, Kate swivels her head, a soft smile sparkling in her eyes as she glances up at Merig. He catches the movement in his peripheral vision and turns to meet her gaze, returning the smile with equal warmth. A shared moment passes before their attention returns to the path ahead. Deep in thought, Kate decides to inch closer. Her eyes drop to his right arm, hypnotized by its rhythmic sway with each step. A playful impulse strikes, and she reaches out, her right hand gently grabbing his upper arm. Merig feels the unexpected touch instantly, his gaze flickering down to where she clings to him. Kate's eyes sparkle again as she offers a soft smile before looking away shyly. Undeterred, Kate's left hand descends further, reaching out to capture him. Merig's cheeks flush a crimson red as he quickly averts his gaze, takes a calming breath, and then calms himself. He returns her look, a gentle smile playing on his lips. Finally, meeting her gesture halfway, he offers a comforting squeeze of her hand. Hand in hand, they continue on their way, a contented air surrounding them. With their shopping list complete, they arrive at the butcher shop, efficiently gathering their final purchases. The day's errands conclude, and they head back to Ashley and Kate's place with their respective groceries. Next, they drop off the requested supplies at Donna's home. The scene shifts to Donna's kitchen, where Merig and Kate transform into culinary heroes, preparing food for the family while Donna enjoys their company from the dining room.
(D)Thank you again, you two. I told Kate she didn’t have to cook for us.
(M)You know Kate, she doesn’t take no for an answer when it comes to helping people.
(D)[giggles] That’s very true. I’m so grateful to her.
(M)Yeah, I’m grateful for her, too. I think everyone in Tara is.
(K)[giggles] Stop it, you’re both making me blush.
(D)Poor Millie wanted to come down and see Kate so badly, but I told her she was too sick and I didn’t want her spreading whatever she has.
(M)What exactly is Millie sick with, do you know?
(D)It’s probably just a cold, she’s got a runny nose and a terrible cough.
(M)I have some medicine on me that might help her. Do you mind if I go see her?
(K)I’ll go with him, I don’t mind saying hi to her. I won’t get too close just in case.
(D)Alright, let’s go see her, then, it’ll make her really happy.
Donna stands and begins climbing the stairs, with Merig and Kate in tow. The trio make their way to Millie's room, where they find her sitting up in bed, engrossed in a book. Upon hearing footsteps approaching, Millie brightens up and turns to see her friends entering the room. A broad grin spreads across her face as she happily greets them.
(ML)Kate, Commander Merig, you both came up here to see me!
(K)We sure did, sweetheart. How are you feeling?
(ML)I feel like my head’s going to explode, but I’m happy you’re both here. Mom says you’re cooking food.
(K)We’re happy to see you, too, honey. Your mom is right. Merig and I are downstairs cooking food for you so you can feel better.
(ML)Thank you so much! If it’s food you made, I’ll be cured in no time.
(K)[giggles] Well, I sure hope so. Merig also has some medicine for you to take.
(ML)Oh, I hate taking medicine, it tastes so bad.
(M)Don’t worry, Millie, this medicine doesn’t taste bad, I promise.
(K)Merig’s medicine has helped me when I was sick, so I can say for sure that it tastes just fine.
(D)Please take it, Millie, you getting better is all that matters to me.
(ML)[sigh] Alright, fine, I’ll take it.
Merig approaches and sits beside Millie on the bed, taking out a small medicine pouch. He faces her and opens the pouch, revealing a tiny round tablet the size of a pea. Handing it to Millie, he smiles reassuringly as she hesitantly takes the pill from him. With a worried expression, she examines it before looking back up at Merig for confirmation. Giving her an encouraging nod, he gestures for her to take it. Taking a deep breath, Millie puts the tablet in her mouth and swallows it quickly. A smile spreads across her face as she looks up at Merig with gratitude and relief.
(ML)You were right, Merig, it doesn’t taste bad at all.
(M)I told you so, that should help you feel better soon. But you should still stay in bed and rest. Kate and I will bring you food when we’re done cooking, okay?
(ML)Okay, thank you for the medicine. And thank you for coming to see me.
(M)You’re very welcome, Millie. I hope you feel better soon.
Moments later, Jack and Clara rush into Millie's room with uncontainable excitement. They spot Kate and excitedly run towards her, bypassing their mother and latching onto Kate with tight hugs and contagious giggles. Kate is taken aback but laughs along, crouching down to return their embrace.
(K)Hey, you two, I see you both woke up from your naps. Have you been good for your mom?
(JA)Yeah, we’ve been helping take care of Millie.
(CL)Mommy said Millie needed to sleep or she wouldn’t get better. So we thought it would help if we slept, too.
(K)That’s very thoughtful of you two. You’re a big help to your mom and your sister, and I’m so proud of you both.
(JA)[gasp] Commander Merig, you’re here, too!
(M)I am. It’s good to see you, Jack.
(JA)Have you fought any tough bandits lately?
(M)I sure have, I fought a big ogre the other day. He had an eyepatch and a giant hammer.
(JA)Did you kill him with your arrows?
(M)You bet I did. He was coming after me with his hammer, so I shot him in the head. He fell to the ground, and it felt like an earthquake.
(JA)That’s so awesome, I want to be a Royal Guard when I get older. Will you train me, Commander Flynn?
(M)Absolutely, I’ll train you to be strong so you can fight bandits with me. What weapon do you want to use?
(JA)A bow and arrow, just like you, Merig.
(M)Good choice. You’ll be using the best bows and the sharpest arrows in Tara.
(JA)I can’t wait! I’ll be strong and brave, just like you.
(M)As long as you train with me, you will be.
(JA)Do you hear that, Mom? Merig is going to train me when I get older, and I’ll be a Royal Guard.
(D)[giggles] I heard, you’re going to be my big strong boy and fight those nasty bandits.
(JA)You bet I will!
(CL)I heard you and Mommy talking, and you said that you and Merig love each other. Is that true?
Kate and Merig immediately look at each other in shock. Their mouths drop and their eyes widen. Their cheeks flush a bright red as they exchange bashful glances. Clara, with her infectious giggle, looks up at Kate, who is struggling to contain her own laughter. A hint of amusement plays on Merig's lips as Kate speaks, trying to break the awkward tension between them both.
(K)[giggles] Oh, did you? Does that mean you weren’t sleeping earlier, like your mom said you were?
(D)Oh Clara, did you eavesdrop again?[sigh] I’m so sorry, Kate.
(K)[giggles] It’s okay Donna. Yes, Clara, it’s true. Merig told me he loves me, and I told him that I love him, too.
(CL)But he’s a goblin and you’re a human.
(D)Clara, don’t be rude.
(K)That’s okay, Clara, I still love Merig.
(M)That’s right, and I still love Kate.
(CL)Does that mean you’re going to get married?
The three children burst into a fit of giggles, causing Kate and Merig to exchange a look of surprise. Kate covers her mouth in disbelief while Merig's face turns red as he bites his lip to hold back laughter. They both try their best to keep straight faces as Merig regains composure and gathers his thoughts before responding to Clara's question.
(M)Not yet, Clara, I haven’t asked her, yet, but maybe someday, if she says “yes”. At least that’s what I’m hoping for.
(CL)You gotta say “yes”, Kate, so you and Merig can get married.
(K)[giggles] It’s possible, Clara, like Merig said, maybe someday.
(D)Oh Clara, leave them alone and go get ready to eat. You too, Jack.
(K)Do you two want to help me finish cooking the food?
(CL)Yeah, I want to help!
(JA)Me too, come on, Kate, let’s go!
(K)Alright, I’ll be there in a minute.
(D)Come on, you two, let’s go downstairs.
Jack and Clara hurry over to their mother's side, following her out of the room and down the stairs. Meanwhile, Kate and Merig stay behind with Millie in the room. As they sit on the bed, Merig glances up at Kate and they exchange an embarrassed grin. After a moment, Merig stands up from the bed and shyly walks over to Kate.
(M)Well, we should probably get going and finish cooking.
(K)Yeah, you’re right, it was good seeing you again, Millie. Your mom will bring you your food once it’s done, but then Merig and I have to leave, okay?
(ML)Okay, will you come see me again soon?
(K)Of course, honey, but you need to feel better, first.
(ML)I’ll try. I’m starting to feel better thanks to Merig’s medicine.
(K)[smiles] Good I’m glad, his medicine is the best.
(M)We hope you feel better soon, Millie. We’ll see you later.
(ML)Okay, goodbye, you two.
(K)Goodbye, sweetheart.
As their conversation comes to an end, Kate and Merig make their way down the stairs and continue preparing the food for Donna and her children. They leave her house and return to the pub, where Ashley and Larry are still chatting. Larry seems to have recovered a bit from his earlier mood as he talks with Ashley. Kate and Merig enter the pub and walk over to the table, while Ashley greets them with a smile.
(A)Hey, you two, welcome back.
(K)Hey, you look like you’re starting to feel better, Larry.
(L)Yeah, the headache is subsiding. Thanks again for the medicine, pal.
(M)No problem, buddy, I’m glad you’re starting to feel better.
(A)So how did the shopping go?
(K)It went as planned. We brought our stuff back to our place and then we went to Donna’s and brought her the stuff she asked me to get for her. Merig and I stayed and helped her cook up something for her and the kids. Poor Millie was so sick, and Merig gave her some medicine he had on him, and it helped her.
(A)That was sweet of you, Merig. I hope Millie feels better.
(K)Me too, also, when we went to see Charlotte, she said that a lot of people knew about last night.
(A)What do you mean?
(K)Well, she told us that she heard about Merig and I. When we went to the square to see the necklace glow under the moon, we both confessed.
Larry and Ashley exchange glances, their eyes widening in surprise. When they turn back to face Kate and Merig, their smiles are shaky and their expressions are guilt-ridden. Kate and Merig look at them with confusion for a moment before their suspicion sets in and they focus on Larry and Ashley. With nervousness evident in her voice, Ashley speaks up as she and Larry try to play ignorant.
(A)We don’t know what you’re talking about.
(L)Yeah, this is news to us.
(K)Doesn’t seem like it. Hey Merig, you said we were alone last night at the square, didn’t you?
(M)I sure did. I was positive that we were alone. It was so quiet, you could hear an arrowhead drop.
(K)You don’t think someone was watching us, do you?
(M)It’s very possible, Kate.
(A)Alright, alright, looks like the cat’s out of the bag, Larry.
(L)Damnit alright, we confess, people know about you two because of us.
(A)Yeah, we kind of followed you two not long after you left the pub to go to the square.
(K)Kind of?
(L)Okay, technically we didn’t follow you, since you were already at the square when we saw you two sitting on the bench.
(A)Larry and I hid somewhere close to you and we eavesdropped.
(K)[sigh] Oh you two, I swear.
(A)I’m sorry, we were curious. We were hoping things would go well between you two.
(L)And we were hoping that Merig wouldn’t chicken out again, so we wanted to see for ourselves.
(M)Thanks, pal, I trusted you.
(K)And you acted surprised when I told you what happened, Ash.
(A)Hey, we wanted to witness the beautiful moment when you two confessed your love for each other. We’ve been looking forward to seeing you two finally come clean about your feelings, and we may have told a few people.
(K)A few? Charlotte at the bakery, Emmett at the butcher, and even Karry at the produce shop, they all know. Charlotte said there are no secrets in Tara, but I don’t remember telling anyone but you.
(M)And I told you last night, Larry, but I figured you were too drunk to remember.
(L)I wasn’t that drunk, was I?
(M)You still have a hangover, remember?
(K)[sigh] It’s fine, the damage is done. I hope you’re both happy with yourselves.[wink]
(M)I was suspicious of you both, and I was right to be.[wink]
(L)But hey, I’m proud of you, pal, you finally grew some balls.
(M)[glare] Thanks, buddy.
(A)Yeah, we’re both happy for you two. You both finally found the courage to tell each other how you feel.
(K)It’s okay, you two, I really don’t mind that people know. But no more eavesdropping, okay?
(M)You’re lucky you’re my best friend, Larry, or I’m not sure if I could forgive you.[smirk]
(L)I figured you two were yanking our chains.
(M)I honestly don’t mind, either. I told Kate the whole world could know and I wouldn’t care.
(A)We’re glad you’re not mad at us. It was so cute listening to you two talk last night. It almost brought tears to my eyes.
(L)Yeah, and we left after you two talked about your feelings, so we didn’t even see the full interaction. I remember what we saw of it because it was before I started drinking.
(K)I was actually secretly hoping you guys saw us.
(M)Yeah, I wanted to prove to Larry that I had the courage to tell Kate how I felt.
(L)I’m proud of you, buddy.
(A)And I’m proud of you too, Kate. It only took you two this long to spill the beans. But we’re happy you did.
(K)Well, I guess the entire city will know soon enough.
(M)Good, fine by me.
(K)Yeah, me too.
The group of four exchanges smiles, and then Merig and Kate take their seats at the table. They spend the rest of the day hanging out together. Later on, at Kate and Ashley's residence, Kate is busy cooking dinner for the two of them. As they chat, Ashley brings up Kate's day spent with Merig at the market.
(A)So, did you and Merig at least have fun today?
(K)Yeah, actually, we did. He was so helpful and carried the groceries for me. I told him I'd help him, but of course, he insisted on doing all the heavy lifting for me.
(A)That's Merig for you. He'd carry a ton of bricks for you if he had to.
(K)I know he's such a sweetheart, I love him to death. Also, Charlotte gave me everything that I picked out at her shop, free of charge. She said it was her gift to me since she missed my birthday party.
(A)Oh, that was sweet of her.
(K)I thought so too, even the butcher gave me a big discount on the meat I bought. And the produce lady gave me some stuff as a gift, everyone was so sweet to us.
(A)Well, of course, everyone in Tara loves you, Kate, even Merig. I think he loves you the most.[wink]
(K)[giggles] I think so, too…oh, I almost forgot to tell you, Merig and I were holding hands while we walked through the market.
(A)Oh how romantic, taking a big step in your relationship.
(K)I know, right? His hands are so warm and gentle. I very much enjoyed it and I didn’t want to let go of him.
(A)Oh, I bet you two were happy to get close to each other.
(K)We were. He turned beat red, though. I don’t think he was expecting me to cling to him. It was so cute to see him blush.
(A)That’s so damn cute. He’s always been so shy around you. It was funny watching him when you two interact with each other.
(K)[giggles] Yeah, but sometimes I worry that he’ll die from embarrassment.
(A)Nah, he’s lasted this long, I’m sure he’ll be okay.
(K)The kids at Donna’s were something else. Clara asked if Merig and I were getting married. It was precious. Merig’s face turned bright red from that too. I felt so sorry for him.[giggles]
(A)[giggles] Oh no, poor Merig, kids have no filter in their brains, I swear.
(K)They really don’t, but Merig did say he was hoping that someday we’d get married.
(A)Oh, I know you’d love that, Kate, wouldn’t you?
(K)[giggles] Well, of course, but I want to see what happens between us, first.
(A)Yeah, I understand, maybe he’ll ask you on a date.
(K)[smiles] Maybe, I guess we’ll have to wait and see.
As Kate finishes cooking a delicious dinner, the two women exchange giggles and continue their lively conversation. After the meal, they both retire to bed for the night. As Kate lies awake in her comfortable bed, she can't help but smile as she replays the memories of her day with Merig in her mind. She feels her heart flutter and butterflies dance in her stomach when she thinks about how they held hands. Eventually, she snuggles under her blanket and drifts off into a deep slumber.