“He was all over you,” Toni said, backing him up.
“You are being dramatic.”
“Oh my gods,” the Araknis breathed, placing all six hands on the kitchen island and leaning in. “Did Bryce pop your Mantodean cherry?”
Rearing back, Zef’s wings buzzed a warning. “I beg your pardon?”
“That’s not a no,” Gem said smugly.
“Zef, you dirty girl,” Toni said.
“I am neither dirty, nor am I a girl,” Zef said.
Toni rolled his black eyes. “In this context, girl is gender neutral.”
“Agreed. Also, I have so many questions. When did you two smash—and when I saysmash, I mean whatever version of smashing Mantodeas consider smashing. Secondly, was it good? Thirdly, why didn’t you tell us immediately?” Gem scolded, counting off on his fingers. “Lastly, and this one is important, is he hung? I have a bet going.”
“Why is everyone gambling on Bryce’s genitals?” Zef demanded, furious and offended on their suitor’s behalf.
“Just answer the questions. Inquiring minds gotta know,” Toni said.
“I can give no details on Bryce’s genitals, as I have not seen them. Though even if I had, I would not tell you,” they said crossly. “And not that it is any of your business, but, no, Bryce and I have not engaged in any type of sexual interactions. Rest assured, my virginity is very much intact.”
Gem narrowed all eight eyes. “I mean, I figured about the sex stuff for obvious reasons. But what about your Mantodean virginity, ’cause I know there’s a difference.”
“Yeah, there’s more you’re not telling us,” Toni said.
“We should get Ollie in here to investigate; he’s a great detective,” Gem said.
Resigned, they set the bowl of salad aside and crossed their top arms over their chest, tucking their lower hands into their onesie pockets. “If you must know, we have held hands.”
With a squeal, Gem grabbed Toni by the shoulders and shook him. “Oh my gods.”
“Zeffie, you little slut.” Toni grinned viciously.
Feeling bold and a little daring, Zef smiled, antennas flicking. “And we hug.”
Gem screeched, shaking Toni harder until the Elas nearly lost his balance. “Oh my gods!”
“Absolute whorish behavior. I’ve never been so proud,” Toni said weepily.
“Do you like it? The hugging?” Gem asked eagerly.
“And what kind of hugging are we talking about? Like a side-hug or full-frontal?”
“Ew, Toni, don’t make it sound porny or Zef might stop doing it,” Gem reprimanded.
Fins fluttering, Toni scowled up at his best friend. “You’re the one asking about Bryce’s junk!”
Zef laughed soft and light, and their two friends fell quiet. “We embrace as suitors do because we are courting, and I like it very much. He is warm and squishy, and when he touches me, I feel good tingles all over.”
Moisture welled in all eight of Gem’s eyes as Toni sniffled, wrapping both his arms around Gem’s waist. “That was so beautiful. I’m hugging Gem, but in my mind, it’s you.”
“Same,” Gem agreed as he squeezed Toni tightly. “I’m so happy for you, Zef.”
“Thank you. I am also very happy,” Zef said.
Entering the kitchen, Rusty slowed to a halt, nostrils flaring as his whiskers twitched. “Why does it smell like feelings in here?”
