A Taste Worth Staying For
Pairing: Touchstarved OC: Xera × GN!Reader
Rating: General
Category: Fluff, Bonding
Content Warning: None
Word count: 3,580 words
Summary: Ever since arriving in Eridia, you've been relying on Leander's kindness just to get by. But kindness doesn't pay for tomorrow. While searching for work and fighting an empty stomach, you run into Xera. One meal turns into an unexpected job offer, and before you know it, you're looking forward to seeing her again.
You sit on the edge of your bed in the room Leander provided for you.
It has been weeks since you arrived here. While Leander has been kind enough to give you food and a place to sleep, you can't live off kindness forever.
Your pockets are empty, and the reality of your situation is starting to sink in. You still need your own money to survive.
You sigh deeply and push yourself up from the bed. Sitting here doing nothing isn't going to fill your pockets. You decide that you need to get out of this room and actually do something productive.
You stand up from the bed, feeling the weight of your empty purse. The decision is made. You need to get out there and maybe there's some work that could put a few coins in your pocket.
Grabbing your things, you head toward the door. A walk through the city might be exactly what you need to clear your head and find an opportunity.
»»——⏱︎——««
Walking through the streets of Eridia, you keep your eyes peeled for any sign of work. You pass by vendors and crowds of people, hoping something catches your attention.
Your stomach suddenly growls loudly, making you freeze in place.
You rub your stomach with a frown, feeling the emptiness there. You forgot that you haven't eaten anything since breakfast.
You realize you can't exactly go hunting for jobs on an empty stomach. Your body needs fuel before you can do anything else.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("Great. Just great. I can't even think about finding work when my stomach sounds like this. First no money, now I'm starving too?")
Just as you are standing there feeling hungry and helpless, your eyes land on someone familiar.
Standing near one of th stalls is Xera. Her red horns catch the light as she leans in close to inspect some goods, looking completely focused on what she's doing.
You hesitate for a moment. You aren't sure if you should interrupt her especially since you're feeling so weak from hunger, but something pulls you forward anyway.
So far, every thing with her has been fine. She hasn't been threatening at all, and actually, there's something almost comforting about her presence.
You make your way through the crowd toward her.
Xera is busy examining the quality of some dried herbs when she hears footsteps approaching. She turns her head, her sharp eyes landing on you.
When Xera notices you approaching, her sharp features immediately soften. An excited smile lights up her face, and she turns away from the vendor to give you her full attention.
She steps closer. Her voice is warm, lacking any of the hostility you might expect from someone who looks as striking as she does.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Hello there, dear! What brings you out and about today?"
She seems to notice something immediately, her smile faltering just a little out of genuine concern.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"You look a little pale. Are you feeling alright?"
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"You look like you haven't eaten a single bite all day,"
You feel a bead of sweat roll down your temple as you realize she's already figured you out. You rub the back of your neck awkwardly, unable to meet her gaze directly for a moment.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Tell me honestly, did you forget to eat again?"
You pause, searching for the right words while your stomach chooses that exact moment to betray you with another loud growl.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"It's not exactly that I forgot…"
You offer a sheepish smile, trying to play off the embarrassment of being caught off guard by your own hunger.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Erm-It's more like… I can't. I'm a bit short on cash right now."
Xera's expression shifts from concern to almost pitying, but in a way that feels kind rather than condescending. She places a hand on her hip, studying you for a moment before she speaks again.
She sighs softly, but there's no judgment in it.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Oh, you poor thing. I should have guessed."
You hesitate, feeling a flush of embarrassment creep up your neck. You don't want to be a burden, especially to a pretty lady as she.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Don't worry about it. We've all been there. Come on, let's get something in your stomach before you actually faint on me."
Xera lets out a giggle. She waves off your concern dismissively.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Are you sure? I don't want to trouble you, Xera. I can manage."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Trouble you? Don't be ridiculous! We're friends, aren't we?"
You blink, your mind is racing. Friends? You hadn't really thought about it that way before.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Besides, I can't have you passing out in the middle of the street. That would be terribly inconvenient for everyone involved."
You hadn't expected this connection to form so quickly, but as you watch her walk ahead of you with such confidence, you can't deny that her presence makes the weight of your empty pockets feel a little lighter.
»»——⏱︎——««
She brought you to a fucking restaurant.
You stop dead in your tracks for a second. This isn't exactly a 'cheap snack' kind of place.
Xera notices your hesitation and glances back over her shoulder. A playful smirk tugs at the corners of her lips when she sees your stunned expression.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("Wait… she's serious? This place looks expensive. I—I can't possibly eat here with what I have left — oh wait, I have nothing left.")
She chuckles again, her tail swishing behind her with amusement.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Don't look so nervous. Just relax and enjoy the meal. It's my treat today~"
As you follow behind her, you find yourself consciously adjusting your pace. You stay close enough to her to feel her presence, but you make sure there's still a respectful distance between you.
You can't risk your hands brushing against hers, you don't want to risk the curse reacting unpredictively, especially not now, when you've grown so comfortable around her.
The fine dining atmosphere makes you feel like an intruder, you feel so out of place.. and you instinctively pull your shoulders in, trying to make yourself appear smaller and less conspicuous.
Finally, Xera leads you toward a secluded corner table.
She pulls out a chair for you with a graceful motion before sliding into her own seat.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"There we go. Nice and quiet away from all the noise."
You reach for the menu, your fingers tracing the embossed leather. The scent of spices and roasted meats wafts from the kitchen is making your stomach growl again.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Now, don't just sit there looking like you're expecting an execution actually, why not look at the menu? I heard the specialty meat stew here is divine."
After scanning the options, you finally make up your mind, pointing to something that looks both filling and comforting.
Xera nods approvingly, her eyes bright with amusement as she watches you settle in.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I think I'll have the [your choice of meal], please."
she reaches out and grabs the small silver bell sitting on the table.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"A solid choice. You need something comforting for yourself to get your strength back."
Ding! Ding ding!
A waitress approaches almost immediately after the bell's chime as she glides toward your corner table with a practiced smile. She carries a small notepad, ready to record your selections.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Waitress}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Good evening,"
Xera gestures toward you before turning her attention to the server.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Waitress}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"May I take your order, or do you require a few more moments with the menu?"
The waitress scribes everything down to her notepad.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"We're ready. My friend here would like the [Your choice of meal], and I'll have the roasted venison with glazed root vegetables, please. And two glasses of your finest sparkling cider."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Waitress}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Of course. Your orders will be out shortly. Will there be anything else for now?"
As the waitress retreats, Xera leans forward, resting her elbows on the table.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"That will be all for the moment, thank you,"
The hushed atmosphere of the restaurant makes her voice seem louder than intended.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"So…"
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"you mentioned you were running short on cash…"
Xera leans back slightly.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"You know, you don't have to pretend to be tough around me. I can tell you're carrying a lot more than just an empty stomach."
Her amber eyes hold a sharp edged that makes you feel like she's reading the unspoken lines of your soul.
She pauses, studying your face with a knowing gaze.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"But then again…"
You take a deep breath, feeling the weight of the conversation settle between you.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"You're not wrong for not trusting anyone. Eridia can be a cruel place when you're vulnerable."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I know. And I appreciate this, I really do. Having people like Leander or you looking out for me means more than I can say…."
A small smile tugs at Xera's lips. She seems impressed by your resolve.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"But I can't just live off charity forever. I need to be able to rely on myself too. I need to earn my own way."
There was a silence between the two of you. Xera seems to be thinking of something, letting out a quiet hum.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I really admire your independence and courage to live."
She taps her chin thoughtfully.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Actually, since you're so eager to earn your keep… I could use some help. My boutique has been overwhelmed lately."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Ais helps out sometimes, but lately the workload has been piling up. The nobles come flooding in from all over, and I can't manage the inventory and the customers alone…
You sit in silence for a moment, processing her offer.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"If you help me at the shop, I can make sure you're well fed and paid. What do you say?"
You know the reputation of her establishment… it's not just a simple shop, it's a destination for the elite despite located in the Downtown.
The nobles who frequent her boutique carry purses that could probably fund you for months.
You look up at Xera, meeting her gaze with newfound determination.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("If I work there... The pay from nobles alone would be more than I could earn anywhere else. It's a chance to actually stand on my own two feet.")
Xera's smile widens, genuine delight lighting up her features as she leans forward.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"That sounds like more than I could ask for.… I'd accept."
She taps the table playfully, clearly pleased with the arrangement.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Excellent! I knew you had potential."
A shiver runs down your spine as Xera pronounces the word Deal.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Consider it a deal then…"
It carries a weight to it something binding and irreversible.
For a moment, the air between you feels charged.
Before you can spiral into overthinking what that commitment truly means, the heaviness of the moment is broken by the soft clatter of porcelain.
The waitress returns. She places the dishes down with careful precision.
She sets your plate down first, the steam rising from the freshly prepared dish, the aroma filling your senses and immediately making your mouth water.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Waitress}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Your meal has arrived. Enjoy!"
Then, she places the roasted venison dish in front of Xera, along with the two glasses of sparkling cider.
Xera picks up her silverware, glancing at you with a knowing smirk.
A flush creeps up your neck as you stammer out a reply.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Eat up. You'll need your energy if you're going to be working for me."
As you take your first bite, the rich flavors explode across your palate.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"R-right…"
The seasonings perfectly balanced, and the texture melts away almost instantly.
For a moment, the world outside the restaurant fades into nothingness. There is nothing but the sensation of the meal, each bite more comforting than the last.
You find yourself lost in the rhythm of eating, momentarily forgetting the weight of your own worries.
Xera watches you with an amused glint in her eyes. A soft laugh escapes her throat as she notices how completely you've been swept away by the meal.
Before you can even react to her observation, she reaches across the table with a linen napkin. She leans forward to gently wipe a stray drop of sauce from the corner of your mouth.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Well, someone seems to be enjoying themselves."
Your face turn deep crimson as embarrassment floods your system. You stare down at your plate, unable to meet her gaze, feeling utterly flustered by her sudden affection.
Xera doesn't pull away immediately, instead, she lingers for a heartbeat longer than necessary.
Her fingers brushing lightly against your cheek as she tucks the napkin away.
Her amber eyes lock onto yours, studying your flustered expression with an intensity that makes your breath catch in your throat.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"There. Can't have you walking around looking like a messy child, can we?"
A smirk tugs at the corner of her lips as she leans back, deliberately leaving you suspended in that state of flustered uncertainty.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Besides, you look far too cute when you're flustered. It makes it difficult to take your serious demeanor seriously."
She picks up her glass of sparkling cider, taking a slow sip while never breaking eye contact with you.
She tilts her head to the side, a strand of dark hair falling across her face, watching your reaction with the patience of someone who enjoys watching prey struggle.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Don't worry. I won't tease you too much unless you want me to."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("…")
Your mind completely freezes up.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("…What just happened?")
She really just wiped your mouth. And then she called you cute.
Your face turns so hot you feel like you might combust right here at the table.
You steal a quick glance up at her.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("No, no, no… calm down. Get it together!")
She sits there looking totally unbothered, taking a slow sip from her glass as if she didn't just break your entire brain.
The warm light shines off the golden rings pinned to her red horn. Her tail sways gently behind her chair. Her eyes rest on you over the rim of her glass.
She looks ridiculously stunning.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("Okay. I finally get why Leander is always so down bad for her…")
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("If I were in his shoes, I'd fall for her in a heartbeat too...")
You quickly shove a huge bite of food into your mouth just to have a reason not to speak. You really don't want to accidentally say something embarrassing out loud.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("She's gorgeous, she's sweet, she's insanely talented… and she apparently loves making me suffer.")
Then another realization hits you.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("Wait a minute…")
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("She literally hangs out with Ais and Vere.")
You let out a tiny, silent sigh.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("I shouldn't even be shocked. Those two… Of course she picked up a few bad habits from them.")
Xera watches your expression shift every few seconds. She watches you go from embarrassed, to panicked, to defeated, and then back to embarrassed again.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("I am so doomed.")
A quiet laugh slips past her lips.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Your face is very easy to read, dear."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"W-What? No it isn't."
She rests her chin on her hand, a soft smirk resting on her face.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Mhm."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I can practically see the gears turning in your head."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I don't know what you're talking about. I'm just eating."
She tilts her head, her smile growing just a bit wider.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Oh?"
You immediately choke on your food, coughing into your hand.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"So you weren't just sitting there wondering why I know how to tease you so well?"
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Cough— No!"
She chuckles softly, taking another sip of her sparkling cider.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I'll take that as a yes."
She says it with a completely straight face, looking innocent.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I do spend a lot of time around Ais and Vere, you know. They are terrible influences on me."
A second passes before her eyes crinkle with amusement.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"…Though I can't deny I've learned a trick or two from them."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("A trick or two…? That is way more scary than if she just denied it.")
Her tone softens, becoming gentle again.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"But don't worry. Unlike those two…"
She pauses for a brief second.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I actually know when to stop. I wouldn't tease you if I thought it would truly upset you."
A mischievous little grin gives her away.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"…Well. Maybe just a tiny bit."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"…You're enjoying this way too much."
She answers without an ounce of shame.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I am."
»»——⏱︎——««
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Your reactions are just adorable. How could I resist?~"
The rest of the meal passes by much more peacefully after the playful banter.
The two of you talk about little things, the awkwardness fading away into easy chatter.
Xera tells you about a noble who insisted that all warm colors, like bright yellow and harsh orange on a matching suit and dress, looked "elegant" together.
She takes another sip of her new cider, shaking her head at the memory.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I almost refused to make it."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"…I did convince them to choose different colors in the end, thankfully."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"So your customers actually listen to you?"
She smiles proudly.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"They do."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Eventually."
You can't help but laugh softly.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Usually after I explain why their idea is a complete crime against fashion."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I'll remember never to question your taste."
She says it with such quiet confidence that it only makes you smile wider.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"A very wise decision, dear."
By the time both of your plates are empty, the restaurant has grown a little busier.
Sunlight streams brightly through the windows, telling you it's already noon.
Xera glances outside toward the sun before standing up from her chair.
She lets out a small, dramatic sigh.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I should get going. My shop won't run itself."
You stand up as well, smoothing out your clothes.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Unfortunately."
For some reason… you don't really want the afternoon to end just yet.
The two of you leave the restaurant together, stepping out into the bustling city streets. You walk side by side for a short while until Xera stops at a crossroads between the way to her boutique and The Wet Wick.
She turns her head to face you, her dark hair shifting over her shoulder.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Don't forget. You start tomorrow."
She gives you a pointed, meaningful look.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"My boutique opens early, so be there around nine."
You put out a tiny smile.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"And don't be late."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I'll make sure I'm right on time."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Good."
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I'd hate to spend my morning wondering if my new assistant ran away."
A genuinely warm smile spreads across her face, softening her sharp features.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I wouldn't do that to you!"
The simple words hit you harder than you expected, settling warmly in your chest.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I trust you."
Before you can think of a good reply, Xera turns to leave.
You stand there, watching her walk a few paces away.
Then… her tail flicks.
The tip of her diamond-shaped tail slips gently beneath your chin, lifting it ever so slightly.
Just enough to force you to look right into her bright amber eyes.
She gives your chin the tiniest, teasing tap with the end of her tail before sweeping it back to her side.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"Try not to spend the rest of today overthinking."
She winks at you, her tail giving a mischievous flick.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"I'd rather my assistant show up tomorrow well-rested."
With that, she turns and continues down the street. Her tail sways lazily behind her as she seamlessly disappears into the afternoon crowd.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{Xera}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
"See you tomorrow, dear~"
You slowly raise a hand, your fingers touching your chin.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("…")
The exact spot where her tail brushed against your skin still feels strangely warm.
Did she really have to do that right before leaving?
You let out a quiet, flustered groan, hiding your warm face in your hand.
Yet despite yourself, a soft smile finds its way onto your face.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚{You}˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
("She is going to be the death of me…")
For the first time since arriving in Eridia… you find yourself genuinely looking forward to tomorrow other than finding a cure to your curse.
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Here is the post if you want to know more about Xera, and her design evolution! Your first meet with Xera AO3 Vers I apologize in advance for any errors!
