What would dating even look like when we’re already closer than many dating couples?
We’re supposed to break into the Cosmic Mine today. Better drops. Good things to sell. I’ll not only be able to make enough money for a circlet soon, I’ll be able to adorn it properly with gemstones that remind me of Samson.
An emerald, for harmony, eternity, and romance.
An amethyst, for calm and peace.
A tourmaline, for kindness.
An onyx, for strength and protection.
And a diamond. For love.
Even though I saw circlets with more than five mounting spots in Amecrest, I am quite used to the in-game slots, and I’ve been thinking about what I would adorn Samson’s crown with for years.
I suppose, given that I am impoverished and sorely lacking in gemstones, I don’t need to make a decision on whether I confessromantic feelings or propose outright at this precise moment. I have time to panic over this decision. Perhaps asignificantamount of time, even.
If I prioritize upgrading my Crystal Gem Blade into Verity’s Edge, I’ll have evenmoretime.
Excellent.
I’ll do that, then.
Procrastination strats at their very finest.
Throughout breakfast, I can barely look at Samson without making something insane up. He has feelings for me, good feelings,heart-shapedfeelings. I should rip the bandaid offright nowand tell him I love him.
No, don’t beinsane. You know how the game works. Youknowthose are friendship heart feelings. He’ll let me down easy. I’ll lose our nights together and the safety of his arms. I should keep my mouth shut and full of food.
But what if—
No. He, actually, hates you. Told me himself.
Who even are you?
Your anxiety monster, duh. Don’t be ridiculous. And stupid. By the way, everyone hates you, told me themselves, as recent as last night, even.
While cramming pancakes in my face, I wrestle with my brain as though I am thoroughly, thoroughly insane.
Unfortunately, the consternation of the insanity reveals itself on my face, and Samson’s, “You okay, Lemonade?” startles me to the marrow of my bones.
I jolt, looking at him for the first time this morning.
My faceexplodescrimson.
A voice whispershates youin the back of my mind.
He watches me, nothing but care deep in every part of him.
“Um—” I squeak. “—yes! I’m fine. Just…” I forgot I was eating. I force the chunk of pancake in my mouth down, cough, struggle. “Just thinking about the Cosmic Mines.”
Samson’s brows launch themselves downward. “You’re sick.”
I blink. “What? No, I’m not.”
“It’s your bleeding time.”
“Um…yes? And?”
