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Now we really know, that we’re not alone. It’s kinda scary though, but it’s kinda cool.
“I think I’m ready to say I’m sick and tired of screens.”
It comes out of nowhere, and Willa pauses, halfway through her sentence.
“W-What was that Z?”
Eliza sighs over the screen, “Screens Willa! God damn it, for someone who’s whole life is technically, I am extremely sick of talking over a screen.”
“W-what does that mean?” Willa immediately feels anxious, thoughts rushing through before she could shut them out, “Does this mean you don’t want to talk to me anymore?”
Eliza blinks, before breaking into a fit of laughter. Something that does not help the twisting in Willas stomach. Or the light shaking to her hands.
Eliza quickly notices this, looking mortified, “Oh my brains! I’m so sorry. That was so not the accurate reaction to that question! I swear I was only laughing because of how preposterous that sounds! Willa why would I ever want to stop talking to you!”
Willa blushed, muttering things none of them could decipher. Insecurity clutching her heart deep in her chest.
“Will?” The zombies voice turned soft, “I will never, ever, want to stop talking to you. I love you. Ok?”
“O-ok. I love you too Z,” a shot of relief cooled her spike of fiery nerves, only to jolt in confusion, “But wait. If you still wanna talk to me. And you hate screens now. How will we talk?”
Eliza grinned, like she was about to reveal a huge secret, “Wellll when you put it like that, I guess I’m just gonna have to come down and visit you. Don’t y’a think?”
Their jaw dropped, excitement coursing through their veins, “Eliza!!! Your coming back?!”
“Yeah, I’ve racked up a few days off here and their. Decided to finally use them, get out of this stuffy Z Corp office y’a know?”
Willa couldn’t believe what she was hearing, she felt as if she’s been separated from her girlfriend for ages. And each day apart was always agonizingly slow. The only thing actually getting her through were these treasured video calls.
“Z! Oh this is amazing! It’s been so long! I can’t wait to finally see you! Moon! Everyone’s gonna be so happy to see you! You can even finally meet the aliens-“
Willa broke off, a thought accusing for the first time, “…You could finally meet Aspen.”
Eliza nodded, although Willa could tell she was a bit nervous about the idea, reasonably so.
“That sounds very interesting,” she finally stated, “And to be clear, you really like this Aspen?”
The werewolf gulped, worried Eliza wouldn’t approve of her separate feelings for the Alien.
“Yes…. I do. Eliza I swear once you see them you’d understand. Their just. Out of this world!” She chuckled lightly at her joke, knowing Aspen themselves would appreciate it.
Her girlfriend nodded with a smile, “Well then, if you believe this Aspen could be a good third partner to both of us, the least I owe you is a meeting.”
Willa felt the urge to correct her, and say ‘Date’ instead. But refrained from doing so. The only one it would feel like a date for is herself. And she couldn’t ask that of Eliza just yet.
“Thank you,” Willa whispered, “I know this is new. It’s so new to me too. I know we’ve talked about it. But the thought of it actually happened seemed so out of reach in a way. But I promise I’ll inform Aspen of this. I’ll do my best to make this a enjoyable experience.”
“You don’t have to do much Little one. This is just a casual hang out afterall. It’s Aspens character who I’m judging. Even trying to see if theirs a chance for us too.” Eliza spoke casually, picking at the skin around her fingernails.
Willa knew it was her girlfriends psychomotor agitation acting up slightly. But didn’t pay it too much attention. It happened more when Eliza was anxious about something, but sometimes it happened just for no reason. She’d only speak up if it grew harmful.
“Im just really glad your coming home Z.” Willa expressed truthfully. Heart full at the idea of finally getting to hug her girlfriend after what felt like centuries.
The green haired girl grinned, showing off her little tooth gap, “Me too little one. Me too.”
————————————————-
If Willa were describe what she was feeling at the moment, it would be nervous.
No, not just nervous, full on teetering on the edge of a anxiety attack due to the event that was about to take place.
After what had seemed like a painstakingly long amount of time of Eliza being home, Willa finally gained the courage too set up a date for her and Aspen to meet.
She told Eliza to meet them at that Pizza place they loved to have dates at, saying she would pick up Aspen in the meantime.
Willa knew Eliza was a patient person when need be, but still, the idea of Aspens sheer bluntness working against them was terrifying.
“Ok, repeat what I’ve told you.”
“Willa, I have already repeated it twice,” their cute little brows furrowed, “You are an exceptionally smart werewolf, so I doubt your having memory problems. Could you explain this to me.”
“I’m just… worried I suppose.” They confessed, fingers twitching subtly with a tremor
Aspen noticed this, their expression scrunching further, “You should not be Anxious Willa. I’ve remembered your decree. This is simply a meet up between me and our girlfriend. It will be casually. No unnecessary advances.”
The werewolf sighed, some of the tension leaving her at the feeling of Aspen slipping their hand into hers. The alien was still figuring out emotions, but physical signs of love was their specialty. Specifically PDA such as snuggling, hand holding, and something that always made their cheeks burn, forehead kisses.
Their tension zapped back into place upon realizing something, “Wait did you say our girlfriend?!”
“Yes,” Aspen nodded as if this was simple, “You and me are in love and are engaging in ‘dating’ as you so call it. Eliza is your girlfriend as well. Ergo, she is my girlfriend. And I love her as well.”
Willas heart seized in panic, this could not be the more literal opposite of what she wanted Aspen to say.
“No! Nononono, lemme set the record. Eliza is not your girlfriend yet.”
Aspen frowned, “But she is your girlfriend?”
Willa nodded, “Yes Aspen, she’s my girlfriend.”
“We are dating?”
The werewolf hesitated, “We have crushes on each other.”
“But don’t earthlings date when they both have mutual crushes on each other?” They continued in confusion.
“Erhm, yes but-“
“So then we are dating, and Eliza is my girlfriend.” Aspen concluded with a smile. Squeezing Willas hand in adoration. All while Willa contemplating just running ways from the restaurant entirely. Morosely wondering where it all went wrong.
“Aspen, sweetie,” she pinched her brow in concentration, “Let me explain this so it’s easier for you understand.”
“Thank you! That would be very beneficial!”
Willa was barely even fazed by their semi odd responses, use to it by now.
“Me and Eliza were together before you zapped down. We were dating and in love. We also had a conversation about a polynumerous relationship, if any of us found someone else just as special. We are required one meet up, so the other partner can get to know them and see if they’d be interested in pursuing a relationship as well. If they aren’t; the other person would not date them ergo.”
“Oh,” Aspen frowned again, “So your saying this is like a trial run. To see if I Qualify to your girlfriend as partner material.”
“Yes. But that’s just a mere technicality.
Seeing the Aliens conflicted face, Willa was quick to gently cup their face, tilting it upward so they could press a kiss to their blue hairline.
The alpha smiled, “But hey. Your amazing. It’s very unlikely Eliza would not like you.”
“Actually theirs a 33.9879088976-“
-“Okay and we’re here!” She rushed to cut them off, grasping their hand tightly while rushing to the front of the restaurant.
Willa didn’t want to go in just yet, knowing their plan was to meet up first.
Wanting to review some last tips, she turned back to her semi partner, and briefly couldn’t resist running a hand through their soft blue locks.
“Ok. Just to review. Zombies are not all polynumerous like Aliens. Eliza happens to be Poly. But not in the way you are. Also, they are an extremely smart, strong, and loyal species. So don’t make any derogatory comments.”
Aspen bit their lip slightly, “Erm, what would be a derogatory comment, to their species, dear Willa.”
Willa smiled, she knew they were trying, even if to someone else it didn’t look the same.
“It would be talking about how your species is superior, “ she explained in a kind, patient manner, not her typical mannerisms, “For example, ‘you truly are such a primitive species. I hope generously you learn something from us alien kind.”
Aspen winced, sheepishly peeking one eye open, “That sounds like something we said to you, wasn’t it?”
“Yeah. I’m pretty sure it was Ali. But yeah, don’t like that cloud your judgment, your different now.” Willa made sure to assure, placing a hand on their arm in what she hoped was a comforting manner.
Aspen nodded, freezing slightly, while their eyes glanced at the floor. Darting back and forth.
Willa let them take their time. It was something she had slowly grown accustomed to over the twos shared time together. Since the Aliens had been suppressed from feeling emotions nearly their whole life, it was sometimes overwhelming to them when they felt something new. Or a certain emotion very strongly.
“Shakey,” they describe, another thing Willa had practiced with them, to describe whatever they could relate to the emotion so she could help identify it, “Pain in my sternum. My chest hurts. And Um, nauseous?”
“Nervous. I think. It’s either that or Anxious. Their very similar concepts. Although Anxious tends to be more severe.” She guessed.
Aspen nodded, “Okay. Um. I am nervous. I suppose.”
“Good job telling me,” Willa cooed, pressing another kiss to their hairline, “I’m very proud.”
The Aliens cheeks dusted a light pink, even if they seemed unfamiliar to the feeling.
“So if your ready,” the werewolf held out their hand, “Shall we go in Dear Aspen.”
They grinned brightly, entangling their hands together, “Yes, we shall, Dear Willa.”
The two approach the doorway, and Willa is happily surprised to see Eliza burst out seconds later.
“I’ve been waiting for you two,” she says with a dazzling grin, “I saved us a seat.”
“Thank you Z.” Willa thanked graciously, all while Aspen struggled to think of something appropriate to say.
“Overalls!” They blurted out. Causing Eliza to scrunch her brows in confusion.
Willa understood, but knew it took some getting used too.
Aspen unconsciously squeezed Willas hand tighter, something that warmed her considerably, “I. Er. I assume your the Eliza Zambie Willa has mentioned. As the description matches and you approached us in a familiar manner. I noticed you are wearing overalls. They are green. And red. And tattered.”
Willas girlfriend could only blink, clearly unsure on what the point is.
“Their complimenting you,” she rushed to explain, “Compliments weren’t hugely given on their planet. More like well wishes of harmonium. So if Aspen mentions something like a trait or physical feature. It’s typically a compliment.”
“Yes. That would be correct. Salutations Willa Dear.” Aspen saluted, grin returning to their face.
Eliza still seemed unsure, but nodded at the explanation, “Er thanks Aspen. Um. Hair? You have very blue interesting hair.”
“Why thank you Dear Eliza!”
Willa quickly elbowed them.
“Uh, Er, Just Eliza?”
“Better.” The alpha whispered discreetly.
Willa knew how uncertain her girlfriend was. But also knew she’d at least be civil to Aspens many quirks. She was here at least, they had both agreed that if someone ever found someone they thought was third partner material, their would henceforth be one required meeting. For the other partner to see if there was a spark for them as well.
The three all unconscious started to move towards the door, when Aspen rushed forward.
“Allow me to open this!”
They quickly made eye contact with Willa, the silent question unsaid.
“Pull.” She whispered back with a proud smile. It was so adorable to see them act so polite and gentlemenly.
Even Eliza couldn’t help but chuckle appreciatively at the Aliens actions. Something that caused a chain reaction of happiness to explode in the werewolf’s chest.
Everyone moved into the restaurant, both girls getting a small laugh when Aspen jumped at the jingle of the doorbell. Curiously trying to find the source of noise.
Willa was about to suggest finding a table when a startlingly cold voice broke through.
“Aye! We’re just serving anyone here now aren’t we? Heh, Aye Jefro! Come throw me the scraps of raw beef from earlier, I’m sure that Mutt over their will love em.”
Willas heart froze, quickly speeding up rapidly.
She had planned out this day to a T, this restaurant was supposed to be all monster friendly. The cashier was never like this!
She shakily glanced at the counter, and saw an unfamiliar overweight man. Grinning disgustingly and eyeing her like she was scum beneath his feet.
Willa growled, feeling her fangs protract.
The man only laughed, “Oh! Maybe make that a turkey leg! This ones feisty! Might even need a muzzle. I’m surprised these two girls didn’t bring a leash for it.”
She didn’t fully understand why she was so affected by his cruel words, usually she’d storm up and claw him to bits. But maybe it was being caught off guard. Maybe it was the fact she was in the presence of her two loved ones.
Maybe it was the fact it subtly tapped into the insecurity that she was lesser then Eliza and Aspen.
Willa didn’t fully know, what she did know, was instead of letting her moonstones power charge her. Her ears twitched downwards, letting out a small wolf whine and backed up.
Eliza saw this and could not be anymore angry, placing a hand on Willas arm in a sign of comfort.
“Don’t worry sweet one. I’ll handle this.”
However, to both The girls shock, before Eliza could do anything, Aspen calmly straightened up. And walked directly towards the man.
“Aspen! Don’t!” Eliza whisper screeched. Willa had mentioned to her that Aspen was a no violence harmony type being. And obviously the idea of some gigantor white guy pummeling them was not ideal.
“Actually my Dear Willa is not a Mutt, nor needs a leash or a muzzle. However. I am curious as to if you are clinically blind.” The alien questioned in a curious tone.
The restaurant was dead silent. All turning towards the confrontation.
“What?!” The man grunted, obviously not liking someone actually talking back, “Did you just call me blind?”
Aspen nodded with a grin, “Well it’s only logical of me. Considering you looked at my werewolf partner and somehow had a illusion of a small canine. It would explain your rotting teeth. Do you happen to miss your mouth when you brush at night?”
A noticeable vein was throbbing in the mans shiny forhead, “Why you think your something don’t you?! Why I outa smack you where you stand!”
“I’d advice against that,” they stated with a near creepy amount of calmness, “Considering their are three cameras pointing in this very direction. It would be more the enough to use as substantial evidence. Their would be more, however a lot of your machines are broken. To which I offer my deepest apology. I’d say someone should fix it, but considering the state of your architecture, you don’t have regular inspections, and fixing would be out of the question-“
-“Shut up!” He roared, “No girl gets to tell me what to do!”
“I am not a girl.” Aspen chimed pleasantly.
“Errr, Um. A boy then!”
“I am not that either!”
The man growled, “Oh your one of those freaks, saying your are what you ain’t! Get your head outa the blue gutters. Theirs no room for she-he’s like you!”
“Oh I know you DIDNT JUST SAY THAT?!” That’s when her amazing girlfriend finally cuts in. And to Willas bewilderment, she pulls out a ‘Non Binaries are Valid!’ Protest sign out of no where. Probably from the void of space for she knows. Although it’s not incredibly surprising, it’s Eliza. If anyone were to have signs near them at all time, it would be her.
The man looked slightly alarmed by the infuriated Zombie marching towards him; sign held threateningly.
“You don’t need to be in this!” He stated, but the lack of growl definitely showed her intimidation had won.
“Oh yes I did!” Eliza seethed, “I did as soon as you insulted my girlfriends partner over their! No matter what your backwards, sorry ass, eats rust for breakfast brain thinks, Aspen is non binary. And you’d do best to respect them for it!”
The man crossed his arms, “And why would I do that little lady?”
She grinned, “Because buster. Look around. Your one human compared to three monsters and a crowd of costumers. You really wouldn’t want it to get out that you happened to be racist and transphobic? Seems along the lines of fireable don’t y’a think?”
“Wait, hey, we can sort this out!”
“No, it’s already been decided I’m getting you fired, however, it’s up to you if you want a mob of protesters showing up to your house everyday until you practically beg us to leave. And don’t think I won’t find where you live. I will. And it won’t be pretty.” The zombie smirked threateningly.
The cashier paled rapidly, “Y-Your bluffing!”
“Am I?” Eliza cocked an eyebrow, “Do you really wanna try and find out?”
The man stammered for a few moments. Head turning Redder the more flustered he got.
“W-what do you want?” He finally grunted out.
“I want you to apologize to Aspen and Willa over here,” she paused turning to give Willa a mischievous look she loved with caution, “And Uh, we get to eat free.”
“Fine. FINE! Sorry or whatever; um, Willa and Aspen?”
The zombie sneered, “And our meal is free?”
“Whatever you want!” He backed away with his hands raised, “Just no protesters!”
“Sure! Glad to do business with you.” And with that, Eliza stuck her nose in the air haughtily and started walking to a table. Motioning for Willa and Aspen to follow.
Willa moved forward as well, pausing when she realized her casual lover wasn’t either.
“Aspen?” She asked softly, walking back and rubbing a hand through their soft hair, “Babe are you Ok? Are you overwhelmed right now? A new feeling?”
Aspen was starstruck, staring directly at where Eliza was now sitting, looking at the two with a mix of concern and curiosity.
“S-So much passion,” They mumbled, “She’s just like you.”
Willa grinned, relieved to know Aspen was just suffering upon the realization Eliza was the best thing in this world, “That’s being in Awe. You get used to it, Dear.”
Aspens brows raised, turning to looking at them intensely, “Do I? …I still haven’t recovered from you.”
The werewolf remained speechless. Cheeks heating up as she struggled to find a reply.
Eventually Eliza broke her little internal meltdown, lightly calling them over to take a seat.
Aspen nodded, taking Willas hand and gently guided her to the table. The gesture was not missed on Eliza. Who seemed to be caught between jealousy and adoration.
“So, Uh, Aspen? What do you like to do around here?” Eliza asked after a moment of silence.
It gained Willas attention, who was a little surprised by her girlfriends seemingly confident attitude. Aspen standing up for her must have gained Elizas respect in the process.
Aspen lit up, “Well Eliza, while this earth is still very odd at times, I have found ‘Froyo’ and watching movies to be very exhilarating!”
“Is that so? Do you have a favorite flavor yet?”
“I have yet to try more then one,” they stated, a bit displeased with this, “But currently, by default. My favorite is chocolate! Such a fascinating flavor.”
Willa laughed, rubbing their thumb over the aliens knuckles, “Don’t worry Babe, we have loads of time to go their. Wait till you get a taste of Vanilla!”
Eliza seemed perturbed by the ‘babe’ endearment. Which made the werewolf wince on afterthought. But it’s not like she had done this before. And it felt odd to try and change her behavior towards Aspen yet, considering they didn’t deserve that. Not unless Eliza didn’t feel the same way and felt uncomfortable with their relationship progressing. Then she’d try and slowly break it off.
Still, she’d make an effort to lay off the pet names, but refused to cut off physical contact. It out the alien at ease. And Willa wanted them both to be comfortable and feel safe. Something she’s sure Eliza would understand.
“Have you ever been here before?” Eliza questioned. Starting to open a menu.
Aspen saw this, and immediately tried to copy. Grabbing one from the center and opening it, making an effort to pose just like the Zombie.
That’s when Willa came in, making eye contact with Eliza and affectionately rolling her eyes, before reaching out and turning the menu right side up, from which it had previously been upside down in their grip.
“Ohh that makes a little more sense,” They mumbled out loud, “… kinda.”
“I can take it from your confusion you’ve never been here before.”
“We haven’t had these types of Jung’s for a while. And even back on our home planet. It wasn’t like a restaurant. More like a resource cache to reload on vital nutrients.” Aspen explained. Voice dipping slightly lower at the mention of their home.
Willa frowned, gripping their hand softly, “Well don’t worry about that. Your going to end up loving these types of things!”
“Especially when you first try pizza for the first time,” Eliza grinned ruefully, “It’s an Earth classic!”
“Pi-Za,” Aspen sounded out the word. As if testing the word on their tongue, “What is this, Pi-Za Willa dear?”
“It’s truly a classic! Picture cooked dough. With tomato sauce. And then cheese. Now add on whatever you want! That’s pizza! We picked this place because they specialize in it!”
They smiled perkily, “Oh! How joyful!”
“We’re gonna order for you,” Willa asked softly, “Is that ok? Since it’s your first time?”
Aspen nodded, “Could you get something with Basil? Ali told me it was a very delicious leaf.”
“You could say that I guess!” Eliza chuckled lightheartedly.
“Sure. Well find something with Basil. In fact. Eliza’s favorite pizzas typically comes with it!”
“Aww! Little one, you remembered!” Her girlfriend gushed. Pupils practically turning into tiny hearts.
Willa smiled wolfishly, feeling her chest pound just a the site of the amazing zombie. It still shocked her till this at that a wolf such as her got to date someone as amazing as Eliza.
“Of course I remembered Z. How could I not with all the ‘Ahhh! Willa pepperoni sucks! Ugh! So disgusting! Margarita is superior!”
Eliza smirked, crossing her arms, “Well I didn’t lie, did I?”
“Meat lovers is a classic!” The alpha barked back, showing off her teeth, “Especially for meat lovers.”
“Well some of us are vegans, snugglepup.”
“Well I got you that vegan pepperoni!” Willa whined.
“And it tasted DISGUSTING!” Eliza shot back, sticking out her tongue for good measures.
Aspen was gazing back and forth at the two girls, seemingly perplexed on wether o interject or stay quiet.
“I’d quite like to try both,” they shyly chimed in, “If that’s possible.”
Willa looked at them, then smirked back at her girlfriend, “HA! See! They want to try my delicious pepperoni?!”
“Fine!” Eliza relented with a groan, “Just make sure none of it contaminates my side of the pizza!”
“Of course my wonderful Z!” She cooed, mock curtsying.
Their was a pause where no one moved, Eliza glaring pointedly at Willa.
“What? We’re you wanting me to go get it?” She asked, a little surprised they weren’t going to order together.
Eliza then gained a suspiciously sweet expression, “Oh, that would be wonderful little one! Don’t you think Aspen?”
Aspen also little a little confused, but eventually nodded, “Erm, yes Willa dear. That would be so cordial.”
Willa nodded slowly, gazing implicitly at the not so innocent Eliza. Who clearly had something planned.
“Uh huh, surrrre. I’ll got get it for you guys. Just no funny business.” The later was clearly aimed at her girlfriend, a warning in her brows.
“Oh little ol me?” The zombie put on her most pure expression; “I wouldn’t dream of it! Oh! And make sure theirs no cross contamination between the brownies and pizza. It’s unlikely. But you have to specify love pup.”
The alien made a noise of question, to which Willa offered them a kind smile, “I’m allergic to Chocolate. They sell brownies here. Which is mainly chocolate.”
Aspen nodded, and with one last look, Willa left, off to order their meal. Only minorly worried Eliza was going to start something crazy.
Eliza leaned back, waiting for the very moment Willa was out of site before jerking back to her regular place, giving Aspen the most intimidating glare she could manage.
“So…you and Willa seem….*close*”
Aspen furrowed their blue brows, “What do you mean Eliza? Willa just left? We could not be more distanced then we are now?”
“Not in physical distance, more metaphorically. Emotionally. Am I correct? You’ve grown close?”
“Err, I suppose so. At least I believe so. Emotions are so tricky. But I will say I am in awe of passion. And willa is passionate in everything she does. She is…. simply, amazing,” the alien trailed off, stars practically dancing in their glazed eyes, “Also. I believe I am. What Willa referred to, as a Crush? Would that categorize as close to you Eliza?”
Eliza scowled, refraining otherwise from showing their irritation, ““You’re right. She is amazing, so one point there. And closeness is about what you know about her, and what you’ll do with that information. So, what are your intentions?”
“To charm you! Willa said this was my qualifications to be your partner! So then I could crush on her! And you! And then we could all be girlfriends!” Aspen could not seem any more happier with their statement. A cheery smile reaching their eyes.
They gained a look of sympathy, leaning forward, as if discreetly, “We’re you not informed of the plan as well?”
“I meant your intentions with Willa,”she bit back the ‘idiot’ she so painfully wanted to add on, “but I guess that halfway answers my question. And why do you want me and Willa to be your girlfriends, and you our…what term would you prefer, The two gender neutral ones I’ve heard are simply partner or joy-friend?”
To her growing irritation with this failing interrogation, Aspen somehow seemed even happier with this question.
“Hmm! Thank you for accepting me as your partner! I suppose I like Partner, but Joy-friend! That’s a very hilarious joke! It replaces boy with Joy as a sense of respect and symbolic for Joy! Which is a synonym to happiness!”
Eliza is quick to slam her hands down. “Hold up! I didn’t say that yet. I asked why you wanted to be there, and asked a preferred term. The English language is still adjusting to gender neutrality and I may be skeptical and you’ll still have to win me over, but I’m respectful.”
“Oh! Thank you for the respect then. I would assume it’s natural. But that man earlier was upset I wasn’t a girl or boy?… that confuses me…,”
they look like a puppy thats just been kicked. And deep down Eliza hates the world for hurting them like this already, “- However! To answer your original question, I love Willa! And she loves you. And you, are as passionate as she is! So I love you too!”
That pain quickly turns to bitter amusement as they look at the Alien. Who has the brain of the oldest scholar, but the emotional bandwidth of a toddler.
“Earthlings are still working through thinking outside the binary. Ignore those guys. They don’t know what their saying, and for what it’s worth, I’m genuinely sorry he said that to you.” She may still be apprehensive towards Aspen, but her words are true. The thought the Aliens must now live in a world where Equality and kindness are not worldwide is not lost on her.
Her voice is quick to turn sour, “And you don’t love me. You don’t know me. You’ve only heard of me through Willa. And loving Willa? I know she’s easy to love, but you’ve only known her a few weeks, and that first week you’ve known her, you said you were in love with Zed. So, how’s Willa the real deal?”
“I… I don’t know. I don’t know a lot of things emotional wise. In fact I just felt nervous for the first time ever today,… coming to see you.”
The words hit her hard, though It feels like the uppermost power trip when Aspen starts to stumble. A blush making it’s way across their face. She wanted them flustered and intimidated. Wanted them to know she meant business.
So it’s twice as alarming when Aspen gazes back a her, eyes steely with invigoration.
“Aliens are advanced learners. We adapt flexibly. And I may not know a lot of the names for things. But I know Willa. More then you think. I know that she is full of passion for her pack. She leads them with strength and honor. As I do my own species. She doesn’t have an emotional inhibitor. But she still keeps them suppressed. I know when she enters a room, my body is filled with space moths. She is everything I felt for Zed times ten. She is fierce, and proud. And is one of most beautiful things I’ve seen since I’ve landed here. She likes to touch my hair. Because she knows it brings me comfort. She takes the time to stay with me when I am overwhelmed by a new emotion. She tells me to pull or push a door. She is gentle with cuddles. Because she knows I am new to it. She is smart. And kind. And knowing her. She wouldn’t just pick anyone to be her girlfriend. So if she saw something in you, I know I’ll see it too. Because how could I ever doubt love when Willa exists within our stars.
The words are powerful. Meaningful. Filled with as much emotion as the Alien could manage.
“W-Well that’s a lot of flowery language for a race of people who have emotional suppressors, “ Eliza stammers out defensively, “ and Willa is like that because she does care about you, and she has a big heart.”
She knows it all to well herself, loving the wolf more then anything.
However she can’t let Aspen off without knowing the severity of the situation. How priceless Willa is. How important she needs to be thought of.
“Now you saw what happens when Zed powers off his ZBand, right? Same thing happens to me, and If anyone ever hurt her, “ Eliza glares to make sure Aspen knows they’re highlighted in *anyone*, “I’ll smash the ZBand against a rock and go full zombie.”
This is probably the most physical Aspen has reacted so far, flinching as if they’ve been slapped across the face. Aiming a look off pure betrayal at Eliza.
“Eliza…,” they pause, either for emphasis, or to collect their thoughts, “why would I ever want to hurt her? Willa has my heart. I would never do that .”
“And I know about Zombiying out!”Your boyfriend Zed went ‘Full Zombie’ when we first landed! It’s quite impressive! And very beautiful.”
“And we’re gonna put a full stop there,” the activist demands, “Zed is not my boyfriend. He is my best friend, and a dude. If anything, he’s like my brother. And I don’t care if you hurt Willa on accident or on purpose, she’s hurt, the band comes off. Understood?”
Aspen nods firmly, her tone leaving nothing up to imagination.
But of course, Eliza feels the need to elaborate on the Zed thing. Make sure Aspen understand just how much she was very not attracted to him.
“To be clear, I’m not interested in men. Women have a strong preference, but I don’t rule out non-binary. I just happen to be more selective there, and it’s purely on my connection to the other person there. Plus, even if I was attracted to men, I see Zed so much like my brother I could literally never be attracted to him.”
“Oh! You are family somewhat,” they perk up, “Like me, ALan and Ali kinda!”
“In every way except blood. I have no idea your relation to ALan and Ali.” She murmurs fondly, thinking of her best Zombie till death.
Aspen frowns, uneasily deep in thought, “I suppose blood?…Aren’t you all distantly related by a millennia or two? We were not born by the same alien breeders; If that’s what you mean. But to be a good leader you need to work with people and have trust! And I trust them completely. Well more over: we are more close then ever since we turned on our emotions!”
“And now Eliza. I have a question for you!”
Eliza felt like she was going to hate this.
“You’ve talked a lot about Willa. Which I still find odd, since this is about us bonding,” the alien looked at them with a cheesy smile she’d deny finding cute in any way, “What do I have to do to show my love for you?”
She was right.
“You can’t love me, not yet at least. Not without knowing me. And I’m asking you about Willa because I know what’s it’s like to love hard and be burned, and I’m not going to let that happen to the love of my life. So, you want to be our partner or joyfriend, I need to have irrefutable proof.” The zombie huffed out, trying and failing to wipe away Aspens ever present smile.
Willa really hadn’t been lying when she said they wore their heart on their sleeve.
It was admirable, Eliza thought, but she wasn’t about to admit that. Especially during her rapidly burning execution of a ‘interrogating shovel talk’.
Aspen nodded, “Hmm. You need an act of trust. That is a understandable requirement.”
They looked down, and it took a second for Eliza to realize they were tinkering with something on their wrist.
It was a two fingered metal looking glove. Something that she couldn’t believe to be comfortable wearing, yet Aspen wore it with ease. It was nice to think Aliens had something similar to the Z band, or a moonstone necklace in Willa’s case.
After even closer scrutinizing, Eliza could see a small circular outline, which held an even smaller circular object. Aspen seemed to be in the process of freeing it, making her wonder what it was.
Then, as if struck by lightning, she remembered.
This was the thing she, Willa, Wyatt, and Wynter were studying at the cheer competition! The thing Willa was freaking out about because it supposedly ‘Probed’ her.
Turns out, it was some sort of mind reader. And the Aliens were using it to collect intel on other students to find out their ‘most precious thing’.
Immediately, Eliza was suspicious of the object, and could only look at it uneasily as Aspen finally managed to free it from its clasp.
Holding it up to the light, Aspen glanced at them with the most serious expression she’s seen today.
“Other aliens may think I am making an undeniable mistake by doing this. Eliza. But, I want to offer you my Luma Lense. It is something all Aliens use. But it’s most common use is to read the minds of others, as well as memory wiping. You should know of this, Willa told me you figured it out together. Very impressive! Now. This does contain a star dust spark. So I’ll need to reunify it with me every while. But. In your possession, you would know I am of no risk to Willa. It is something we guard with our lives. And now. I trust you to guard it with yours.”
“And how do I know that won’t short out my ZBand,” She questioned, attempting to still seem intimidated, “Zed said both Alan and Addison did that with their powers, and I don’t know about this Luma Lense. At least, having it on me for more than a few minutes.
The Alien perked up, grin both curious and delighted, “Hmm! A logical hypothesis. I suppose the spark is from the Star dust. And to remove that. I’d have to render the Lense dormant. I could easily turn it back on. But if you had it. I would not. It’s mind bending powers would be null.”
Eliza sighed, looking down at her hands, then back to Aspens hopeful expression. And gently, she pushed the Luma Lense back into their surprisingly soft hands, pretending not to see the flash of hurt on their face, just for the sole intention of finishing this conversation.
“Thank you for the gesture, Aspen; it means a lot, and I’m not closing the matter just yet, but let’s run experiments in a secure location before we do that exchange. And even with this, don’t expect my trust will come easy. You’ve learned our history, of what people have done to zombies. And I don’t know every individual, but I know humans. I know the good and bad of them. I know nothing about aliens yet. The closest I know is Addison, and she’s only ¼ alien and just found that out a few months ago.”
Somehow out of everything, this is what makes them, blush. Words stuttering as they struggle to form a logical sounding sentence, “I-uh. I-I don’t think we know ourselves yet as well. We knew everything with our suppressors. Emotion played no key. But now? Everything is…unknown. I-I can’t promise I’ll know everything I’ll be like. But if we found out together, I can promise I’ll always be their for you and Willa. And I mean more then just physically standing next to you! I mean I’ll try and emotionally connect with you. Even if I have very minimal experience on how to do so.”
“Since you’re being open and honest now, you should have some knowledge in kindness,” she offered softly, “ I’m not ready to make a decision on making you our partner. Not yet. But I’m open to, let’s say, continue moving forward. Go on dates and stuff, let you actually get to know me and Willa so you can see if you truly love us and aren’t just, in an emotional overload, and see if our feelings return in kind. Us earthlings do the same thing of going on numerous dates before deciding on a relationship.”
You would think the Alien just won be lottery, jumping up from their seat and doing a downright Adorkable happy dance, “That would make me so very excited! Thank you! I can’t wait to share this with Willa dear!”
“Just remember you’re on a trial period right now, being put through several tests. We agreed to be polyamorous, but our agreement is that it’s everyone all in or not at all.” Eliza added with a fond smile.
“I’m All in!” They stated immediately, voice passionate, “I was very all in for Willa! And now I’m all in for you! Polyamorous relationships are very common for Aliens! And are encouraged. As long as we don’t break any marital laws of contact!”
Theirs a beat before Aspen glances with a hesitant frown.
“…Loving Willa wouldn’t break yours and I’s marital law, would it?”
“No!” Eliza was quick to affirm, “Sure the rules are different down here, but in our relationship, loving Willa would not harm me. Just as Willa loving me doesn’t harm you.”
They seemed confused, “What rules are down here?”
“Wellll,” she trailed off, “Same sex marriage was only approved a few years ago, due to tons of bad folks doing it in bad faith, polyamory is only recognized unofficially, not in the same way other marriage is viewed. Me and Willa do however, have a relationship agreement.”
“But before I go ahead with anything. I need you to promise me something.” She demanded in all seriousness, Aspen quickly picking up on her tone.
“Of course Dear Eliza? What is it?”
Eliza ignored the slip of endearment, shaking her head and continuing, “I need to know that If Willa ever says stop, you do. Not even a second longer. On any activity.”
They made a noise of question, I’m confused.? Does stop means something else here? It means to cease an activity in our culture.”
“Let’s just say not everyone follows the instruction to stop here on Earth. Some willfully ignore it.” She muttered scathingly.
“I understand. Thank you for warning me about the misunderstanding humans,” Aspen was quick to brighten, pointing somewhere behind Eliza, “Oh! Look! Willas coming back!”
Eliza turned, and Indeed her beloved werewolf was coming back with a delicious smelling Pizza.
“Hey Z, Babe, I’m back with the goods!” She howled happily, plunking the pie in the middle of the table, “Now; you didn’t do anything Crazy when I was gone, right Eliza?
Eliza donned her innocent smile once again, “Who, Me?! Never!”
Aspen beamed, “I learned Humans don’t understand their basic language!”
Willa balked slightly, not knowing how to respond to that. All while Eliza chuckled in the background.
“Did you at least get a chance to bond?” Willa questioned. Desperately hoping the answer was true.
She’d never say this right now, but she felt as if she truly loved both the people in front of her.
Eliza, her beautiful eternal flame who she’s been going steady with for two amazing years.
And Aspen, something entirely new. But somehow just what she didn’t know she needed. Illuminating a part inside her she thought was dark forever.
She’d have to stay with Z, no matter what. She was her rock through it all. But if Eliza said she hated Aspen and wanted them to separate… it would honestly be one of the toughest things she’d ever have to do.
But to her shock, Eliza reached her hand out to Aspen. And another shock right after, Aspen took it.
“It think we’re all gonna be ok.” Her girlfriend spoke warmly
Willas eyes shined, “Z… does this mean..?”
“That I’m ok with us moving forward in a relationship between all three of us? Yes, “ her brows rose, “However. Still a trial run. We’re not dating yet. But. I’m saying theirs interest.”
“I’m Interest!” Aspen beamed proudly. And Willa couldn’t help but coo at their r innocence.
“Babe, that’s not how it works. But I’ll make sure to tell you in detail about I later.”
“Now!” Eliza removed her hand from Aspens, moving to take a huge slice of margarita Pizza, “Are you ready to try the superior Pizza Aspen?”
Willa quickly slammed down into her seat making eye contact with the excitable Alien, “Actually. What she meant to say Aspen. Is would you like to Pepperoni Pizza, which is superior.”
“I guess I’ll have to try them both!” They charmed with a grin.
Willa got lost in thought, thinking of that very sentence in relations to all of them.
Try them both huh? Not a bad idea.
She glanced at Eliza laughing at Aspens reaction to pepperoni, the later liking it so much they moved to steal pepperoni from other slices. Not caring to eat the actual crust.
Not a bad idea at all.