paved in gold

“Stupid people who thinks that Koi is a name of a fish. It’s not just a fish name. It’s translated to panther in my language.” Koi rolled his eyes when he thought about all those idiots who’d automatically assumed the meaning of his name. “I’m only twenty one, so yes, I’m about her age. You look like you’re in your mid twenties?” 

“Well can you blame them? When I think Koi, I immediately think of fish... or at least I did until you told me it meant panther,” Andrew offered with a shrug. “So then is she hot? In your opinion, I mean. I guess you could say I’m in my mid-twenties. It makes sound old though...” 

“Beautiful is a correct observation. —Sexist, I don’t think so.” 

“Well the words coming out of your mouth make me think other-wise. You still get points on the looks though.” 

“And I bet you’re the only one who thinks that” she scoffed as she took his hand. “Thank you”

“Unfortunately, that does seem to be the case,” he replied, scratching the back of his head. “No problem. But for future reference, try not to drink in the middle of the hallway. Or have a friend nearby to take care of you.” 

‘ ready ?? ’  she grins. there’s only a moment’s pause before she makes a move, launching straight into an offense.

“Whoa---!” Just as the words left his mouth, he saw her fist move towards him. He jumped back and held his hands up in a ready position again. “You’ve gotta have more than that.” 

“Yeah, I figured,” she chuckled, “I know, it’s not gonna change. I don’t want them changing anything for me, so I’ll get used to it.”

“And hey, its a good way to learn about new cultures and stuff right?” 

“Don’t you worry, I’ll find a way.”

“Well good luck. I’d hate to see someone as hot as you end up being nothing more than a shriveled up old corpse.”

‘ oh, no - you’re the perfect welcoming committee, ’ she laughs. 

“You know, as someone who utilizes sarcasm so often, you’d think I’d be able to pick up on it really easily. That isn’t the case right here.”

“My parents could only be described as hippies. I like my name, even if some people make fun of it.” Koi stated with a shrug. His brows furrowed at the other’s question before he answered, “She’s a baby. Nineteen years old or something. I can’t really remember.” 

“Who would make fun of panther? That’s so dope!” Andrew questioned, tilting his head in curiosity. “You don’t look like you’re much older than her. She probably is too young for me though.” 

“Are you calling me sexist?” Bella mocked a gasp. “I am appalled, sir.” 

“Well beautiful, I call ‘em like I see ‘em,” Andrew replied with a shrug and a little laugh.

‘ i’ll treat nice people accordingly, and unkind people accordingly. don’t you worry about that. ’

“Well as long as I have your queenly word, that’s fine with me. Although what are you gonna do while waiting to get a bed?”

‘ alright, ’ the guardian grins, eyes glittering in anticipation. ‘ it’s been too long since i’ve sparred with anyone but my king. this will be fun. ’

“Well you’d better get ready to get your ass kicked blondie,” Andrew teased, stretching his arms across his chest. “I’m sure it will be a lot of a fun for me.”