#i rly just didn't want to play w jacinta again

[reality-refuge]

Aster takes a deep, shuddering breath. When he opens his eyes, Cerise is offering her hand again. He takes it for a second, gives her a squeeze, and then drops it.

“So I stomped off. Came out here.” He looks up sheepishly, meeting Cerise’s fiery eyes. “And called you.”

Cerise sighs through her nose – a sure sign that she’s angry but trying to control it. “I am so sorry you had to go through that. If I’d have been there, I would have fought her for making you cook – she wouldn’t have made it to her age-up.”

Aster chuckles half-heartedly. “I almost wish you could have. Would’ve saved me a world of pain later when she brings it up again.”

Cerise reaches over and gives his arm a squeeze. “You deserve better, hon.”

Aster puts his hand over hers but doesn’t dare to speak.