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The wedding reception was beautiful. It felt like one of those things that just had to be said.
The grand decor for example, from the furniture chosen to the flowers hanging from the ceiling to the lighting complimented by fitting music only someone with a good ear for it would be able to pick out, all lended to its near ethereal atmosphere. It was like a fairytale. A sight to behold.
Elizabeth and Raora had done an amazing job planning all of it despite the undoubtedly immense amount of stress they must’ve been under. In the end, it was worth it.
They deserved it. Nerissa was happy for them. Truly she was.
Yet no matter how many times she repeats that sentiment to herself, the demon can’t help but feel just a little envious at the back of her mind. As much as she was happy for the newly wed couple, she had always figured she would get married first.
Alas, reality doesn’t always follow through with how you want it to.
Nerissa sighs as she heads over to her table with a plate of food in hand, the only other person there being Kiara, her plus one for the day seeing as Calli couldn’t make it. Something about helping a friend out according to her.
As soon as Nerissa sits down to eat, Kiara perks up from looking down at her phone and when she bats her eyelashes, Nerissa already knows the former wants something. “Nerissa, do you mind getting me something sweet from the buffet table please?”
“I just got back Wawa…”
Kiara pouts as puts her hands together to plead, “Please! I wasn’t craving anything a minute ago but now I am and since you came back that means you still have the energy… Come on, please?” Not seeing the benefit in arguing, Nerissa reluctantly agrees and stands up with a huff.
“Yay! Thank you Nerissa! Love you!”
“Love you too...”
Going back to the buffet table and reaching the dessert section, Nerissa grabs a plate to start filling it with an assortment of desserts. Cakes, cupcakes, brownies, basically one of everything while adding an extra one for the desserts she wanted. Once the plate could fit nothing else, Nerissa moves to get back to her table only to accidentally run into someone as soon as she turns around.
Thankfully, she doesn’t drop the plate on account of the person being much smaller than her. About half her height if she had to guess.
When she looks down to apologize, she sees a child looking to be around their preteen years. A girl. Then she looks up and Nerissa nearly drops the plate in her hand from the sheer shock that rapidly courses through her veins. It was as if a frigid cold bucket of water had been dumped on her on an even colder night.
She even briefly considers that she’s hallucinating which was an absurd idea but nothing could explain what she was currently seeing.
Nerissa felt like she was looking into a mirror.
A mirror that reflected a smaller – younger version of herself.
Nerissa’s mouth falls open, struggling for an apology she can’t formulate. She gives the child a quick once over.
Her hair was just like Nerissa’s albeit shorter. Her dress similar to Nerissa’s in style but without the long sleeves. Instead the most obvious difference was that there were two dark pieces of cloth cascading down both sides of her shoulders, almost as if to imitate wings.
The most eye-catching features however were her eyes and horns .
Her eyes, like the rest, looked like Nerissa’s but with a hint of something familiar to the demon from a time ages ago. Her horns were even more so. A wave of nostalgia hits Nerissa followed by bittersweet memories of her lost youth. She quickly shakes that memory from her mind.
The only detail that seemed out of place was that there was a small portion of her hair on the right that was white.
Regardless, to any passerby, they could’ve easily been mistaken as related.
In the middle of her internal crisis, Nerissa is broken out of her thoughts when the young girl speaks. “Sorry miss!” she exclaims apologetically, her expression sheepish. “I wasn’t looking where I was going and–”
“Hey, it’s okay, it’s okay…I wasn’t looking where I was going. Totally my fault,” Nerissa says reassuringly in hopes that it could mask the shakiness in her voice.
By the looks of it, it succeeds but before the child has a chance to respond, another voice cuts into the conversation.
“Beatrice?” Nerissa’s brows furrow at the familiar tone and she looks up to have her suspicions confirmed. It was Calli, walking towards them.
“Calli?”
“Uncle Calli!”
To Nerissa’s surprise, the girl runs up to Calli for a hug which the latter reciprocates, even going so far as to ruffle her hair affectionately. “You little troublemaker, what’re you doing out here? I thought you were waiting in the car?”
“I got hungry,” the girl Nerissa now knows as Beatrice answers. Calli raises a brow, “You could've just asked me to grab something for you, you know?.”
“Yeah but I was getting bored and mom let me out.”
“Fair enough,” Calli sighs, “What happened?” Beatrice glances at Nerissa and flashes another apologetic look before turning back at Calli. “I sorta ran into the pretty lady over there. Wasn’t looking where I was going.” “Clumsy as always huh?” Calli chuckles and she looks up to meet Nerissa’s gaze.
“You okay Nerissa?”
“All good,” Nerissa assures with an easy-going smile. “What’re you doing here Calli? Kiara said you couldn’t make it.” Calli scratches the back of her neck nervously, “Yeah about that, I’m only going to be here for a bit. Happened to be passing by and I felt bad not being able to attend so I just came for the time that I can spare.”
Nerissa hums, wine red eyes curiously taking glances at Beatrice every once in a while.
“You got all the food you need Bea?” Calli asks. “Enough to survive through the winter for sure!” Beatrice chirps and Calli grins, “You best be heading back to your shelter then. I won’t be long, I’ll be back in a bit.”
“You got it, partner!” and with that Beatrice skips away, plate of food still firmly in hand. Nerissa watches her all the while, only pulled out of her stupor when Calli walks up to her. “Who was that?” Nerissa questions immediately, eyes still glued to the direction Beatrice went.
“It was that friend I mentioned I was helping,” Calli answers and Nerissa bites the inside of her cheek to hold back the urge to press further. If she doesn’t want to share, she doesn’t want to share.
“Kiara’s here with you, right?”
“Yeah she is. Over here.”
Together they make their way to the table where Kiara was patiently waiting, the phoenix equally as surprised as Nerissa to see Calli there. After a brief explanation of why and what happened, Calli leaves to look for the newly married couple to congratulate them while Kiara and Nerissa remain seated.
Like always with the two of them, Kiara starts yapping away about a new topic that randomly came to mind and while Nerissa would usually tune in to listen, her mind was simply too occupied this time. Instead filled with glimpses of the young girl she had run into less than an hour ago.
“Nerissa!” the Demon of Sound blinks. “...yes?”
“Are you even listening to me?” Kiara asks but once again, Nerissa isn’t paying attention. Kiara sighs, “You okay? You seem out of it.”
“Sorry,” Nerissa finally responds, muttering softly, “I guess I am… just… saw someone that kinda surprised me…” Kiara’s face is sympathetic at first but as the seconds pass, it morphs into borderline disbelief. “Wait… surprised? Are you saying you saw–?”
Nerissa shoots a sharp look at Kiara, a retort at the tip of her tongue but before she has the chance to say it, Calli returns. “Hey ladies,” she cuts in unintentionally. A beat, then she glances between the two. “Am I interrupting something?”
“No nothing at all,” Nerissa says immediately and Kiara nods in agreement. “Got to see Elizabeth and Raora?” Kiara asks and Calli easily gets the subtle message to change topics.
“Yeah yeah, happy I got to give my congrats to them and all that,” Calli says then she takes a peek at her phone. The corner of her lips curl, “Unfortunately I gotta go now. I’ll catch you two later, ok–”
“Would you mind waiting a bit, Mori?”
That voice.
Nerissa had never whipped her head around so fast in her life.
The cadence of that voice, the way in which they spoke, Nerissa would recognize it anywhere. Even if all the rest of her senses were taken from her, she would never forget the voice of–
“Shiori…”
“Rissa.”
Rissa . She says it like several years hadn’t passed between them. Several years in which they haven’t seen nor talked to each other. Several years since they had gone their separate ways.
The Archiver looked like she hadn’t changed much over the time Nerissa hadn't seen her but a closer look would tell you she had. The gentler way she smiled, the soft mirth in her golden eyes, the lightness in every move she did. It was like she aged and yet hadn’t at the same time, carrying herself like she had gone through several lifetimes worth of experiences.
It wouldn’t be too far-fetched an assumption for the Archiver but even still, the details were so subtle, so minor to the average person that they may as well be unnoticeable. Unless of course you were Nerissa and had spent an insurmountable amount of time memorising every detail of Shiori by heart.
“It’s good to see you again,” Shiori greets with that same gentle smile and she extends that greeting politely to Kiara as well.
“I thought you wanted to stay in the car?” Calli points out which causes Shiori to giggle. Nerissa had missed the sound dearly.
“The guilt got to me, I couldn’t wait any longer,” Shiori explains as she holds up a sizable paper bag to show. “So can I? I’ll just be a minute.” “Of course you can, go on ahead Shiorin,” Calli says and Shiori nods before taking her leave.
As soon as Shiori was out of earshot, the two birds wasted no time to press the reaper for answers.
“Calli! You knew where she was this whole time ?!” Kiara exclaims, effectively beating Nerissa to it first but frankly the latter didn’t care. After all, she was still reeling from seeing Shiori to begin. Plus, it was understandable.
It wasn’t just Nerissa’s life Shiori had disappeared from after that fateful day, Shiori had also practically disappeared from the lives of everyone else in their circle. For years. Until Calli apparently. At least she had the decency to look apologetic.
“You could say that…”
“Why didn’t you say anything!”
“It was only recently!” Calli defends herself, “Like a year ago. And that was only cause I coincidentally ran into her at the local supermarket...”
“Still! You know how Ne–!” Kiara pauses abruptly and ever so slowly, the two turn to glance over at Nerissa in unison. The demon doesn’t meet their gaze in lieu of staring down at her lap.
Calli presses her lips into a thin line. “I”m sorry Nerissa… she said she just wasn’t ready to see everyone face to face yet and I didn’t want to force her,” Calli tells her and Kiara helps by placing her hand over Nerissa’s lap to rub it comfortingly. “At least she’s okay right? That’s what you were worried about the most weren’t you?”
Nerissa gives no answer.
“Enjoying the reception everyone?”
The trio all turn to see Elizabeth walking towards them hand in hand with none other than Raora with Shiori following closely behind. “It’s been great Elizabeth, sorry again for the late arrival,” Calli says with Kiara and Nerissa echoing similar sentiments. Elizabeth waves it off with a smile.
“That’s good to hear, and Calli I already told you, it’s alright,” she looks over at Shiori, “I’m just glad you all could come and stop by.”
“Couldn’t bear to miss it,” Shiori chimes in but her joyful expression soon becomes regretful, “Unfortunately, I have to get going soon. I would’ve loved to stay longer.” “We understand, we’re just glad you could make it. And thank you for the gift, you didn’t have to really,” Raora says but Shiori shakes her head.
“I wanted to.”
“Well we appreciate it,” Elizabeth adds whilst wrapping an arm around her wife’s waist, “It really is good to see you again Shiori and stay safe out there alright?.” She looks over at the rest, “I hope you girls continue to enjoy yourselves. If you don’t mind, Raora and I have to go attend to the other guests.”
With a mutual bid farewell along with varying wishes of congratulations on their marriage, the couple head on their merry way, leaving just the four of them.
“Mori?”
“Oh yeah,” Calli turns to Nerissa and Kiara, “I gotta get going, I’ll see you ladies around okay? Kiara, I’ll call you later.”
Just before they have the chance to even take another step, Nerissa musters the courage to speak up. “Can I send you off?” Calli looks at Shiori who stares back at Nerissa with an unreadable look on her face.
Nerissa honestly wasn’t sure if that would work but to her surprise, Shiori agrees.
After telling Kiara she’ll be right back, the demon follows behind Shiori and Calli as they walk ahead, the two of them talking amongst themselves. Nerissa didn’t attempt to join, opting to just stare holes into the Archiver’s back from behind.
It doesn’t take long until they arrive outside at Calli’s car and only then does it really sink in that Nerissa would have to say goodbye to Shiori again. “This is us,” Calli announces and Nerissa responds with a barely audible hum. “It was nice seeing you again Rissa,” Shiori says followed by a soft laugh, “Demon genes must be nice, you look like you haven’t aged a day.”
The corner of Nerissa’s lips curl into a smile. “It was nice seeing you too. Really. You don’t look too bad yourself either.” I’ve missed you.
“Where are you heading now?”
“Straight back home definitely,” Shiori answers to which Nerissa merely nods in response, afraid that if she spoke, her disappointment would be evident. If Shiori sensed the tension, she was damn good at not showing it. Mustering up the courage again, Nerissa ventures to ask, “Do you think we can meet up again sometime?”
Shiori’s lips twitch and Nerissa feels fear invade her chest, already tasting the rejection on her own lips.
“Sure.”
Nerissa’s eyes widen and she stutters a bit before finally stringing together a proper sentence to convey what she wanted. “Can I have your number then…? The old one…”
“Sure sure hold on, it’s in the car,” as soon as the words leave her, the backseat window rolls down and the face that peeks out renders Nerissa speechless all over again.
It was the young girl from before.
Nerissa had almost forgotten about that whole ordeal on account of seeing Shiori again but now here she was, casually handing Shiori what was presumably her phone.
“Here Mom.”
“Thank you Beatrice.”
Nerissa feels her heart and mind start to race. Mom .
Alas she isn’t allowed a second to organize her racing thoughts as Shiori shows her number displayed on her phone, pressuring the demon to hastily type it down on her own phone. She doesn’t even get the chance to check if she spelt Shiori’s name correctly as the woman in question was already walking over to the passenger seat while Calli gets into the driver's seat.
Right before she gets in, Shiori waves at Nerissa with a warm smile. “Message me whenever okay? I’ll get to you as soon as I can if I’m not without internet or sleeping.”
“Of course,” with one more goodbye, Shiori gets in the car and the engine revs to life. Nerissa watches as the car drives away, waving all the while. Once it was out of sight, Nerissa’s shoulders sag and a breathy exhale leaves her lips.
Shiorin… at least I might see her again…
__________________________________________________
Nerissa hadn’t messaged Shiori at all in the past week since the wedding reception.
Any time she mustered up the courage to try, she’d lose it all the moment she even glimpsed at Shiori’s name at the very top of her screen. In all honesty, she didn’t know how to approach the Archiver anymore.
Would it be the way she always did? Forward and flirtatious?
But that was back then…
Nerissa sighs for what felt like the umpteenth time that day, let alone the week. She shoves her phone into her back pocket before reaching out to grab another pack of chips. Right as she places it in her basket, she feels her phone buzz and fishes it back out again to check the notification out of curiosity.
What she doesn’t expect is for her breath to hitch at the name displayed.
Shiori.
Nerissa doesn’t even think twice before opening the chat, cursing to herself internally upon the realization that now Shiori will know she’s read the message. Meaning she has to respond. Thankfully the message Shiori sent seemed relatively harmless.
Are you doing anything right now?
Sorry for bothering
A smile flickers across Nerissa’s face. Always so considerate . That was enough to help her hastily type a reply.
not at all
whats up?
All she receives in response is an innocent smiling emoticon followed by an ask to look behind her. So Nerissa does as she’s told, her brows furrowed in confusion only for them to shoot up at the sight of a familiar head of black and white hair standing at the end of the aisle.
Shiori, with her shopping cart filled with several things, walks over to her and with each step Nerissa hears her heartbeat get louder in her ears.
“Shiori,” Nerissa clears her throat, “I didn’t know you shopped here.”
“Once in a while, for groceries,” Shiori replies and that has Nerissa back to being confused. “But I’ve never seen you here before?”
“That’s why I said once in a while,” Shiori snickers, “I normally go to another place but this supermarket has more food options, so here I am.”
“Oh…”
Shiori’s laughter tapers off and her eyes glance towards the basket in Nerissa’s hand. “Still shopping?” Shiori asks to which Nerissa nods her head. “Just need a bit more, yeah.” “I’ll accompany you then, may as well get my steppies in,” Shiori’s voice lowers down to a whisper, “If that’s okay with you that is.”
Nerissa smiles fondly, shaking her head. “Of course it is.”
And so the two walk together aisle by aisle to complete the rest of Nerissa’s grocery list with little words exchanged between one another. That is, until Shiori decides to throw Nerissa a curveball.
“So is the key messaging you first?”
Nerissa winces and she lets out an awkward laugh. “Sorry… I just didn’t know what to say…” “Oh how the mighty have fallen,” Shiori teases.
A beat.
“I’m sorry–”
“No. It’s okay,” Nerissa is quick to reassure her, “It’s okay…You didn’t mean it like that. I know.”
Grabbing the last of her snacks, Nerissa along with Shiori make their way to the cash registers. It’s goes quiet again between them and Nerissa can’t help but wonder. They’ve had moments of silence like this in the past but never before had it been this awkward. This uncomfortable . Yet neither of them address it as much.
Instead they go to pay for their respective groceries like normal and meet up again outside when they’re done.
“So Shiorin…”
“Yeah?”
Nerissa takes a moment to swallow the lump in her throat before continuing. “Now that we’re both here… do you want to do something? Maybe this weekend?” The Archiver hums as she thinks it over, “Yeah this weekend sounds good. I don’t think I have anything scheduled.” Nerissa sighs out a breath of relief. “Nice. Okay, that’s great.”
The demon scratches her cheek with a small smile. “I don’t have any ideas right now, so I’ll message you them later, is that okay? I promise I’ll do it this time,” Shiori nods with a cheeky grin and Nerissa does her best to pay no mind to it as she glances around the parking lot. “So where’s your car? I’ll walk you to it since you were so kind to accompany me earlier.”
“I walked.”
Nerissa’s eyes nearly bulge out of her head. “You walked ?!”
“Yeah,” Nerissa can’t comprehend how Shiori says it so nonchalantly.
“Isn’t it far?” Nerissa asks and Shiori merely shrugs in response, “Not that far, about twenty minutes? Thirty now with these bags if I had to guess.” Nerissa can already feel the ache in her own legs and arms yet Shiori doesn’t seem one bit bothered.
“You can go ahead first Rissa. I’ll be waiting for that message.”
Before she has the chance to leave, Nerissa reaches out to grab Shiori by the wrist. “Wait Shiori, let me drive you.” “...what?”
“Let me drive you,” Nerissa repeats and Shiori’s brows furrow. “ I heard you the first time but–”
“Come on please, your muscles will thank me and besides it’s just… me,” Nerissa feels herself deflate at that last part and she resists the urge to chuckle half-heartedly out loud. When did it come to this?
Shiori doesn’t immediately give an answer and Nerissa waits for one patiently all the same. Shiori looks out to the road and lets out a sigh, “Okay.”
Nerissa beams, excitedly leading Shiori to her car with a noticeable skip in her step and the Archiver laughs softly as she follows behind. Upon arriving, with their groceries placed in the trunk of the car, Nerissa in the driver seat and Shiori in the passenger, they were about ready to go. Except for one more thing.
“Uh, Shiorin, can I have your address?”
“Oh sure.”
Shiori takes Nerissa’s phone that was offered to her and begins typing out her address for directions. All the while the demon tries not to give any reaction away. Once that was settled, they were on the road and on their way to Shiori’s home.
“Feel free to put on whatever,” Nerissa says and Shiori decides that the usual radio station was just fine. Now with the music playing and the mood set, the two relax as Nerissa drives them through the city. The roads were empty surprisingly and the silence gave way for Nerissa to reminisce memories from years ago.
A different car. A familiar setting. Her in Shiori’s seat and Shiori in hers. A ghost of a smile plays on Nerissa’s lips.
In about a third of the time it would’ve taken Shiori to walk, they arrive in front of an unassuming house in an unassuming neighborhood which Nerissa can’t help but smile at. Such a powerful being in such a regular ol place… that’s just like Shiori.
Speaking of, the woman in question had already unbuckled her seatbelt and gotten out of the car, leaving Nerissa to clumsily do the same. As Shiori pops open the trunk to grab her groceries, Nerissa races out to help her. “Rissa, my house is right there.”
“I know, but this is a lot of bags,” Nerissa gestures to them dramatically for emphasis, “Let me help. At least it'll just be one trip.” And like she always has, like she always does, Shiori relents. “Suit yourself.” Her tone is exasperated but Shiori is helpless to hide the way her eyes undeniably soften.
There were a total of four bags and before Shiori even had a say, Nerissa had already opted to take the two heaviest. Without a word, Shiori takes the remaining two and the both of them make their way to the front door.
Halfway there however, the front door suddenly swings open and Nerissa feels like she’s back at the wedding reception all over again. It isn’t Beatrice she sees though, it was a young man.
He was about the same height as Nerissa, perhaps even slightly taller, dressed in simple sweatpants and a t-shirt. He had white hair with a section on the left being black and horns similar to Beatrice.
As Nerissa gawks and stares, the young man quickly makes his way over to grab the bags in Shiori’s hand. “Mom, I told you to wait for me…” he mutters to which Shiori smiles fondly. “We needed groceries.”
“Still, I could–”
“It’s fine, we’re here already anyways. How did you know we arrived?”
“The car,” he answers easily and Shiori hums, “Thank you Lyonne.”
“Lyonne…?” the man turns and Nerissa is met with a stoic face, accented with striking pink irises. He’s intimidating at first glance no doubt but Nerissa knows better. After all, she sees the hints of Shiori in him. The warmth underneath cool indifference.
“Thank you for bringing mom back. I keep telling her walking is an awful idea,” he says and Nerissa’s lips curl into a small smile, “It was nothing. Happy to help.” Lyonne holds his hand out to her and Nerissa stares at it confusedly before she understands that he wants her to pass the grocery bags she was holding too.
Nerissa passes it albeit reluctantly and she watches in surprise as Lyonne takes it with ease. What the hell has Shiori been feeding him…
“So I guess this is goodbye for now?” snapped out of her thoughts, Nerissa looks over at Shiori. “Yeah, it was good to see you again,” If only for peace of mind . “You too Lyonne, it was nice to meet you.”
Lyonne nods wordlessly and after a slight bow, he makes his way back inside. “He’s not much of a talker like me unfortunately,” Shiori chuckles. “But he’s got a good heart...” she adds.
“I’d believe it,” Nerissa says and the two lock eyes, a moment of silence washing over them. Shiori is the first to break it.
“I’ll see you this weekend?”
“Yeah,” Nerissa answers breathlessly, “I’ll see you this weekend.”
After bidding each other one more farewell, they each go their separate ways. Shiori into her home and Nerissa back into her car. Throughout the entire drive back home, Nerissa held her steering wheel in an iron grip, anxious for the weekend that was to come.
__________________________________________________
“How have you been these past few years?”
Shiori places her cup gently back on the table, the barest hint of a smile on her lips. “Good I guess but time moves by so quickly I can barely even process I’m back here to be honest.”
“That’s good to hear,” Nerissa takes that as a green light to press a little further, “Where have you been, if you don’t mind sharing…”
“Moved out of town,” Shiori answers cooly, her gaze elsewhere as much as Nerissa tries to meet it. “Needed if for a change of pace, some quiet.”
“Without telling any of us?”
Nerissa tries to hide the hurt in her voice but to someone like Shiori, it was clear as day to notice.
The Archiver’s voice lowers, her own tone meek and remorseful. “...it was sudden. I would’ve called but well, you know.” Nerissa doesn’t but even if she did want to know, the question stays lodged in her throat. She almost regrets bringing the question up.
Thankfully, Shiori is quick to change the subject.
“What about you? What have you been doing these past few years?”
“Oh, same old same old,” Nerissa says which causes Shiori to grin, “Still making it big in the world huh?” Nerissa laughs softly, shaking her head. “Not anymore, I’m on hiatus. Sort of, just taking my time making stuff on my own now.”
Shiori hums before taking a sip of her drink. “Are you still writing books?” Nerissa asks curiously and like her, Shiori shakes her head. “Ghostwriting now.”
“Oh wow, for who?”
“Confidential information Rissa.”
The demon laughs sheepishly, promptly thinking of something else to ask. “You going up in the world at all?” Nerissa nearly slaps herself in the face.
“I started only recently so no don’t get your hopes too high up,” Shiori giggles but as her laughter slowly dies down, she stares into her cup, down at her own reflection with a half-smile on her lips. “I’m just glad it pays well.”
Nerissa nods after having taken a sip of her own drink, “Can’t argue with that.”
“How has everyone else been?”
“They’re good. Kiara’s doing well as CEO, branched out overseas recently,” Shiori raises her brow at that, “Did she ask you to be head of one of the branches like she used to joke about?” Nerissa rolls her eyes lightheartedly.
“I already told her no in advance. You know me Shiori, I can’t handle that.”
“I’m sure you would’ve,” the Archiver giggles before gesturing for Nerissa to continue.
“Well you know about Liz and Raora–”
Nerissa goes on to tell about all Shiori missed in her absence. From all the major changes to the minor and with every story, Shiori can’t shake the bittersweet feelings stirring in her chest.
“I missed quite a lot huh?” Shiori laughs half-heartedly as she traces the rim of her cup, “Some Archiver I am.”
“Don't sell yourself short Shiori,” Nerissa chides gently, “But I can't deny, we did miss you.” The corner of Shiori's lips curl into a small smile and Nerissa gives her a reassuring one in return.
“Nothing to archive on your side of the story?” Nerissa asks and Shiori shakes her head, leaning back into her chair. “Not really, at least, I can't recall any right now. It's mostly a blur, I was just so busy…”
Shiori pauses, her gaze down towards her lap and Nerissa feels her breath stutter. She places her arms on the table, contemplating holding out her hand for Shiori to hold but she decides against it at the last second. Instead she leans forward, her voice barely above a whisper as she asks, “Shiori, those two… Lyonne and…”
“And Beatrice?”
Nerissa hums. “And Beatrice. The both of them… are they your…?”
Shiori nods. Quick and simple but it causes Nerissa's heart to hammer in her chest almost painfully all the same.
“Yes. They’re my kids. I’m their mother.”
Nerissa feels her throat tighten but she just manages to ask, “Who’s their father?” Shiori chuckles softly. “You really want me to admit it out loud?”
Nerissa says nothing in response but the look on her face says it all. Please.
“It’s you Rissa. Who else would it be?”
It feels like time freezes for several moments before the demon starts to hyperventilate while the Archiver on the other hand is the epitome of calm.
“Shiori– god, how long –” Nerissa runs a hand through her hair, “Why didn't you say something? Call me? Call someone or anything–”
“It was after the argument,” Shiori cuts in, sounding nothing but tired now. “I didn't tell anyone cause you would've found out eventually. And what was I supposed to say to you then? ‘Hey Rissa, I know we just had this big argument about our relationship but I realized we have kids together so do you mind coming back? Please and thank you?’”
“No? Yes? I don’t know Shiori but–”
“No offense Rissa,” Shiori intervenes again, her voice now a little more firm. “But I was not about to raise them in that kind of environment. I want them to have a normal childhood, no matter what it costs me.”
“But–”
“If you’re feeling guilty about it, don’t. You never knew and I never told you, if anything I should be the one held responsible,” Shiori says with a tone of finality. At that Nerissa doesn’t protest any further, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t try to prod for more answers.
“Did you go through the pregnancy alone?”
“Rissa, you know better than I do that demon pregnancy isn’t like normal human pregnancy,” Shiori points out and Nerissa chastises herself internally while also breathing a sigh of relief at the reminder. Safe in the knowledge that Shiori thankfully didn’t have to go through something like normal human pregnancy on her own.
“Right, right… sorry I just thought cause you were… never mind…”
Demon reproduction was mostly magic and happened externally. Nerissa herself honestly wasn’t that knowledgeable in the subject but what she did know was that it was best described as like ‘a stork delivering babies’. How exactly it happens was also a whole other can of worms Nerissa doesn’t understand. According to her mom though, the partners had to have a very strong bond.
But that doesn’t matter right now Nerissa tells herself.
“To answer your question, I wasn’t technically on my own. I called your mom,” Nerissa’s eyes widened and before she could bombard Shiori with a million and one more questions, the Archiver was quick to explain herself. “She doesn’t know it has a connection with you. I asked under the guise of just wanting to know more,” Shiori says.
That should’ve been good news to the demon yet at the same time, she feels an ache in her chest. The distress must’ve been evident on her face because Shiori tries to console her.
“It’s in the past, Rissa. It’s fine.”
“No it’s not . I should’ve been there at least in some way… financial support, at least something …” Nerissa breathes out heavily. Shiori was right though, there was nothing she could do about the past now. All that was left was the present and future.
That compels Nerissa to ask, “Can I see them?” Shiori presses her lips into a thin line, thinking it over for a second. “Sure–” Nerissa lets go of the breath she was holding, “But I haven’t told them about you yet so please, take it slow.”
“Of course,” Nerissa allows herself to smile, “Thank you Shiorin. Really.”
“I’m not about to bar you from seeing Rissa. They’re your kids too,” Shiori says and Nerissa chuckles. It dies down after a while and with that, a sudden new question comes to mind. One that has Nerissa nervously fiddling with her fingers on the table meaning it doesn’t go unnoticed by the ever observant Archiver.
“Shiori, about our past–”
“No Rissa,” Shiori is quick to stop her. “You’re just about to meet your– our kids for the first time. It’s best we don’t make it more complicated with our relationship. Please, just focus on them for now.” Nerissa feels a lump form in her throat. She wants to talk about it but Shiori had a really, really good point.
“Okay…”
“Thank you.”
Seeing as Nerissa had picked Shiori up for their day out together, it only made sense the former would drive the latter back. What the demon hadn’t expected was to be hit with the following question.
“Do you want to stay a bit?”
Nerissa can scarcely believe her own ears.
“You’re asking me to stay?” Shiori chuckles whilst nodding, “I don’t see why not? You wanted to meet the kiddos right?” Nerissa wets her dry lips, suddenly very anxious. “I did but I figured, you know…”
“Beatrice has been asking for you, you know? Keeps asking about the ‘pretty demon lady’ she met at the reception,” Shiori tells her and that sparks some confidence in Nerissa.
“If you don’t want to now, that’s okay. You can always tell me when.”
“I want to meet them. Now is okay.”
Shiori raises a brow, “Yeah?”
“Yeah,” Nerissa repeats and with that, she shuts off the engine of her car and is quick to follow after Shiori towards the entrance of her home. The walk to the front door wasn’t far by any standard yet it felt as much as Nerissa tailed behind Shiori.
After what felt like an eternity, they arrive and Nerissa unconsciously holds her breath as Shiori unlocks the door.
“I’m home!”
Nerissa hears two distinct voices greet Shiori in return, one monotone the other more cheerful. Shiori giggles as she walks in after taking off her shoes at the entrance and Nerissa does the same. They walk into an open plan living room, the sound of the programme on the television getting louder and louder.
“I brought back a guest,” Shiori announces as she places a set of keys on the kitchen counter and Nerissa looks towards the living room as a head peeks over the couch. “You brought a gue– it’s the lady from the wedding!”
Nerissa gives a small little wave. “Hi. Sorry for showing up randomly.”
“You’re all good, mom rarely ever brings guests around,” Beatrice pauses for a moment, “Does that mean you two know each other?” The demon laughs awkwardly, sparing a glance towards Shiori, “Yeah… we were good friends.” Shiori hums in agreement.
The Archiver gestures towards the living room, “Take a seat Rissa, I’ll get some drinks and snacks real quick.” Before Nerissa can protest, another voice intervenes. “I’ll help mom,” a tall figure stands from the coffee table in the middle of the living room. Nerissa watches as Lyonne follows Shiori into the kitchen when she feels a hand tug her wrist.
“Come on Miss, you can wait with me here,” Beatrice says and Nerissa reluctantly makes her way around the couch before taking a seat, trying to make herself as comfortable as possible. Thankfully, Beatrice was kind enough to help diffuse the tension even if unintentionally.
“So is there a name I can call you Miss Pretty Demon Lady? Or would you rather I use the nickname?” she asks. Nerissa stifles her laughter, “I appreciate it but it’s okay. My name’s Nerissa, Nerissa Ravencroft.”
“Woah, that’s a really nice name…”
Nerissa grins and can’t help but feel just a little bit of pride bubble up inside of her. “Thank you. Beatrice is a nice name too,” she says and Beatrice rolls her eyes, “Thanks, mom used to always tell me though that she wanted to name me Beatrice Niori ‘World Destroyer’ Novella”
Nerissa could definitely imagine that. In fact she’s surprised Shiori only framed it as a joke.
“Did she now?” Nerissa chuckles to which Beatrice gives a nod. Then she leans in close and looks around as if she was about to tell a secret no one else could know of. “Mine’s not bad though to be honest. I sometimes think it’s pretty cool but Lyonne… Lyonne nearly got Lyonne Ichinori ‘Ball Crusher’ Novella,” Nerissa nearly chokes at that as Beatrice pulls away, snickering all the while.
“I-I see…”
Red eyes start to wander around the interior of the room before curiously settling on the literal stacks of books piled on the coffee table alongside several open ones. “Oh! Sorry about that,” Beatrice apologizes as she quickly kneels on the floor to tidy the mess.
“It’s okay,” Nerissa assures as she takes a peek at some of the contents and titles. “Very studious isn’t he?” “Yeah, as much of a nerd as he is a dork.”
Just like Shiori .
“But at least he helps me with my homework as much as I would rather him just give me the answers,” Beatrice sighs. “That’s nice of him.”
“Yeah, he tutors other kids too,” she adds and Nerissa raises her brow in surprise. “He must be real smart huh?” As soon as the words leave Nerissa’s mouth, Beatrice visibly lights up. “He was valedictorian in university,” she puffs her chest in pride, “Tutoring earns him a lot of money too.”
Nerissa’s lip twitches and she forces a smile, “That must be amazing.”
“Mhm… don’t tell mom, but I’m sure I saw her cry,” Nerissa's heart clenches painfully in her chest and even more so when she notices Beatrice let out a particularly heavy sigh. “I’m just glad she doesn’t have to worry about bills anymore. I think Lyonne is too,” the young girl mutters.
Nerissa feels her hands clench uncomfortably. She wants to press further but the more logical side of her brain just knows that’s a terrible idea so instead she makes a mental note to gently ask Shiori later. If she can.
In an attempt to get her mind off the matter, Nerissa joins Beatrice on the floor. “Here let me help.” Together the two make quick work of the books either by putting them to the side or placing them somewhere else if only to create some space on the coffee table. In the midst of their cleaning, a picture catches Nerissa’s eye.
A child’s drawing of three people. Three people that if Nerissa had to guess were Shiori, Lyonne and Beatrice.
“This is…”
“Oh! It’s my old drawing!” Beatrice exclaims, grabbing the old piece of paper and looking it over. “Used to be on the fridge before we moved here. I thought we threw it away but it seems Lyonne likes it more than he let on,” Beatrice giggles. “Thanks Nerissa, this is some really good blackmail you’ve found for me.”
However Nerissa doesn’t instantly respond. She’s silent, the sentiment that has been echoing in her head ever since she stepped foot into this house never more loud than before.
You really have been so absent.
Before she can spiral any further, Beatrice once again comes in to save the day. “Nerissa, are you okay? You don’t have to help if–”
“It’s okay,” Nerissa gulps, flashing a smile. “Sorry, got lost in thought there. Come on, let’s finish the rest of this up.”
After a bit more arranging, they’re able to make space on the table just as Shiori and Lyonne arrive with drinks and snacks. Once that was set on the table, with Shiori and Lyonne now there, more conversations ensued.
Even late into the night after she leaves, Nerissa is sure of one thing.
She wants this to work.
__________________________________________________
“So she has like two kids? And one of them has finished university? As a valedictorian?!” Kiara exclaims and Nerissa nods, taking a sip of her drink.
“Damn… does that kid need like, a job or anything at all? Do you think–”
“Kiara!”
“Sorry!” Kiara apologizes, “I was just looking for opportunities… so what was the problem again?” Nerissa sighs exasperatedly, resisting the urge to bury her face in her hands. “What do I do ? Shiori, the kids…”
The phoenix clicks her tongue. “Is there anything to do really?” Nerissa gives Kiara a look but before she can speak, Kiara is quick to add, “I mean like do you need to do anything extra? Why not just go with the flow? That’s what Shiori said right, let things happen naturally and focus on building a relationship with the kids.”
“I know but,” Nerissa chews on her bottom lip, “But what if I mess up again?”
“Nerissa…”
“I did it once, if I do it again…” The mere thought sends shivers down Nerissa’s spine to the point even her hands start to quiver. A firm hand grabs it to quell the shaking and Nerissa looks up to see Kiara’s kind gaze. “Hey, all you need to remember is how to navigate yourself when you run into a problem. You’re good at talking and so is Shiori, it was just that the last time you were both busy and in bad places,” Kiara grips Nerissa’s hand a little tighter.
“Now that you’re not and you have insight, just make sure to make the right choice. I know you can do that.” Nerissa chews on the inside of her cheek, the doubts within her unabating but with Kiara’s words, she manages to gain just a little faith.
“Thanks Wawa.”
“I got you girl,” she smiles earnestly and Nerissa mirrors it.
Kiara then proceeds to sigh dramatically whilst pulling away from Nerissa. “Honestly though I’m getting sick and tired of watching you pine,” Nerissa cheeks begin to color. “Has it really been that–?” “Don’t, don’t . If I speak I will not stop complaining,” Kiara huffs but her tone is lighthearted and it causes Nerissa to chuckle sheepishly.
The phoenix glances down at her phone before standing. “Calli’s here,” she informs and Nerissa gives her a wave, “Have fun. Call me if you need anything.”
Kiara scoffs, placing a hand on her hip. “Wow. You see Shiori again and all of a sudden you don’t even want to be a good friend and see me out?”
“I don’t wanna intrude on you and Calli.”
Kiara shoots her another look and Nerissa simply takes that as a sign to follow and do as she says. Together both birds exit the coffee shop they were in and as they walk out, Nerissa hears Calli’s voice call out to Kiara, the latter answering. However when she turns, not only does she see Calli there but Shiori walking alongside her too.
“Shiori?” Nerissa blurts out unintentionally to which the Archiver in question flashes her a smile. “What are you doing here?” “I could ask the same for you, I was just accompanying Mori to meet Kiara,” Shiori explains and Nerissa’s eyebrows furrow. “I was also… accompanying…”
The pieces slowly start falling into place and Nerissa doesn’t even have to check if it’s the same with Shiori. The two look at their respective companions. Kiara gives Nerissa a sly grin while Calli at least looked a little remorseful.
In one swift motion, Kiara grabs her fiancée by the arm and pulls the reaper to her side all the while not so subtly pushing Nerissa towards Shiori. The Demon of Sound yelps as she nearly crashes into the Archiver but thankfully the latter was able to hold her steady.
“Well, we have a date to go to. Thank you so kindly for accompanying us respectively, hope you two have fun!”
Hand in hand and at Kiara’s insistence, the couple start walking away and Nerissa just manages to resist chasing after Kiara. When they’re far enough away though, Kiara had the audacity to shout over her shoulder, “You two could have fun together too! Don’t let me stop you!”
If Kiara had been an inch closer, Nerissa would have surely chased her down. Shiori seemed less bothered by it. Then again, she was with Calli who, to Nerissa’s knowledge, was less the type to tease in comparison to Kiara. In that moment Nerissa briefly wonders if Calli had given the same kind of pep talk Kiara did to her with Shiori. If that was part of their little ‘scheme’ at all.
She supposes she will never know.
“Rissa?”
“Hm?”
Shiori stifles her laugh. “Are you okay? Are you actually that consumed with anger for Kiara? Planning her demise in your head as we speak?” she teases and Nerissa glares towards the direction the two went. “No… I could never. Just spacing out,” she says before turning to Shiori, “Are you heading straight back home or anything at all?”
Shiori shakes her head. “Nah, I was planning on staying out a little bit more. Beatrice keeps telling me to go outside,” Nerissa nods her head, mentally snickering at the image of Beatrice gently scolding her mother. “Do you… want to spend some time together then? Since we’re both here?”
“Sure, I don’t see why not.”
Nerissa gestures towards the coffee shop behind them. “Want to try this coffee shop? Get some drinks? They have some really good ones,” she suggests but Shiori politely declines.
“I’m good.”
“Oh…”
“How about a walk? I could use the time to get my steppies in,” Shiori offers alternatively. Nerissa grins, “Sounds good to me.”
With no particular destination in mind, they end up going in the opposite direction of where Kiara and Calli went lest Nerissa become victim to Kiara’s teasing again. The walk was mostly quiet but like always with Nerissa, she couldn’t help but start a little small talk.
“So how have the kids been?”
“You met them only a few days ago Rissa,” Shiori giggles. “I know, just curious. You never know,” that causes Shiori to roll her eyes while Nerissa takes a moment to conveniently turn away and clear her throat. “They’re doing good, but I will say, Beatrice has been asking me about new skin care products which I have zero knowledge about so I’m kinda at a loss of how to help her.”
The corner of Nerissa’s lips curl. “I can help.”
“I know you can. She said the suggestion was from you after all but dang girl, how do you live? Those prices are high ,” Shiori’s tone is joking as she says it but that doesn’t stop Nerissa from furrowing her brows. “I can cover the cost if it’s too much?”
Shiori is more than mildly surprised. No matter how hard she tries to hide it.
She laughs softly, waving off the concern much to Nerissa’s chagrin. “It’s all good. The price is pretty high but I can cover it.”
“Are you sure?” Nerissa tries again but Shiori remains firm, “If what Beatrice told you worries you, you shouldn’t be. That’s all in the past, we’re much more comfortable now.”
“How did you know–”
“You’re still as easy to read as ever Rissa,” Shiori says with a wink and Nerissa starts to feel the heat in her cheeks rise again. “But also cause I know Beatrice loves to yap.” That at least gives some dignity back to Nerissa.
“Ahaha… but really if you ever–”
“Need help to ask? If it’ll make you happy I will,” Shiori looks at Nerissa with a smile, “I appreciate it Rissa.”
“Of course. So what about you? What have you been up to these past few days?”
Shiori hums, quickly recalling if there was anything significant she’s done over the past few days. “Uh I guess I’ve just been getting settled back into the place. Met with Beebs and the doggos again, they seemed happy to see me,” Shiori tells and that has Nerissa curiously raising a brow.
“You sound like you didn’t expect them to be.” Shiori shrugs, gaze still focused forwards. “I just figured you know, with me disappearing so suddenly then reappearing again so suddenly, I thought I’d be getting a more… cold reception.”
Nerissa smiles fondly and without a second thought, she grabs Shiori by the hand. “Of course not, I think I can speak for everyone when I say that regardless of how we felt when you left, we missed you Shiori. It’s good to see you again and doing okay but maybe next time, tell us beforehand? At least someone?” Nerissa says with a slight pout which causes Shiori to laugh awkwardly.
“Sure will,” she says. “What about you Reese? What has a glamorous demon such as yourself been doing?”
“Oh you know, woke up, got invited out to have some tea, got made fun of, now I’m hanging out with my beloved Archiver,” Nerissa winces at the word ‘beloved’ and turns to gauge Shiori’s reaction but she doesn’t seem bothered by it. Instead she asks, “No other plans for today?”
“Well now that you mention it, there is a store nearby I frequent for my own skincare. How about we stop by and I buy Beatrice some things then I can send you back home?” Shiori gives Nerissa a look while the demon all but smiles innocently back at her. In reality, Nerissa was masking the worry stirring in her chest. Worry that she had taken her chances too far.
“Well played Rissa,” Shiori snickers, “You’d make a good mastermind.”
“I learn from the best,” Nerissa lets out a breathless laugh.
“Well, lead the way Reese.”
__________________________________________________
As the days go by, it all slowly becomes routine. It’s nothing serious as Shiori and Nerissa both promised each other with no labels or anything major. Just the demon constantly being there for the Archiver and their kids.
However it would be a complete lie to say that both of them were particularly strict on that rule. The occasional flirtatious remark was common but even so, they watched each other's boundaries closely.
Nerissa wanted to convey she was committed first and foremost after all. It helped then that it was easy for her to get along with Lyonne and Beatrice. Being with Beatrice was like hanging out with the little sister Nerissa always wanted while being with Lyonne was just like being with another version of Shiori who will go on endless tangents about his interests if prompted enough.
Bonus points added that he and Nerissa shared a lot of similar interests and he was very knowledgeable in a lot of them.
“So you take the dude here and you bring him to the gate and because we have the exploit on, we should be able to just walk in… and bam, you complete the quest but still get to keep your best bud.”
Nerissa stares at the screen in astonishment with her mouth slightly agape. “That’s insane, and this exploit was only discovered recently?”
“Yeah, found it while I was messing around and when you mentioned you liked the character but were sad they died in the first act, I thought I’d show you,” Lyonne shrugs. Nerissa nods, lifting herself up to sit on the couch while Lyonne closes the game to get back to typing away on his laptop.
The demon laughs softly, “You sure work hard, don’t you?”
“The extra money helps,” is all Lyonne says in response and that causes Nerissa to frown. She hesitates for a second, thinking it over and over in her head if now was an appropriate time to ask. “Was it… hard growing up? If you don’t mind me asking?”
Lyonne shrugs again. “Sorta. Repeating meals was common but even then, I don’t ever really remember me or Beatrice feeling like we were struggling. There were bumps along the way sure but mom was always there,” he says and Nerissa places her hand on Lyonne’s head before ruffling his hair affectionately.
Shiori did a good job raising them Nerissa thinks but as much as the thought fills her with pride, it also leaves her feeling a pang of sadness.
“That’s good to hear.”
A full minute passes. Then another.
“Lyonne, do you ever wonder what happened to your other parent?” the young man in question raises a brow as he looks over his shoulder towards Nerissa. “You don’t need to answer if it’s too–”
“I know it’s you.”
Nerissa’s breath gets caught in her throat and she feels like she suddenly can’t breathe. Lyonne on the other hand just goes back to his laptop as if he hadn’t just hit Nerissa over the head with a steel bat.
“Y-You knew…? All this time?”
Lyonne chuckles, the sound bereft of malice or anything of the sort. He laughs lightheartedly as one would when a harmless secret is kept from them but has been known to them from the very start.
“It’s pretty obvious. The horns? The eyes? The way you and Bea act and how you’ve been spending time with mom, I’d have to lose all five of my senses to not realize that,” he points out and with every point, Nerissa deflates a little.
“Oh…” she gulps, “Does Beatrice know too?”
“She doesn’t,” is Lyonne’s quick response, as if aware of the tension in Nerissa’s shoulders. “She’s a bit easier to trick.”
Nerissa feels a lump in her throat, stuck underneath it the question she desperately wants to ask. Fortunately, Lyonne, like his mother, seemed to have the innate ability to somehow read people’s minds.
“If you want to ask if I’m upset about the whole thing with mom and us, I’m not.” Nerissa blinks, not quite believing the answer. “Okay maybe that’s not entirely true especially when I first saw you but, you know after getting to know you more and seeing you with mom and Bea… I’m more open to it, you know what I mean?”
Lyonne clears his throat and makes an obvious effort to keep his face out of view from Nerissa. “If anything, I’m just looking forward to having you around,” he mutters almost inaudibly but Nerissa hears regardless. Nerissa feels her shoulders relax, no longer burdened by what felt like a million bricks on them.
She hugs Lyonne – her son, from behind and kisses his temple tenderly. “I’ll make sure to do my best and you can always count on me being here from now on, okay?” Lyonne hums and noticeably relaxes in Nerissa’s hold.
“Don’t worry about Bea, she may be a little dense but she’s a big girl. So long as you ease her into it, she’ll be okay. She really likes you anyways,” Lyonne says which causes Nerissa to chuckle. “Thank you,” she says in between her laughter, “You’re way better at this whole sibling thing than my sisters you know?”
Lyonne scoffs, “With that troublemaker, it’s hard not to constantly worry about her.” Nerissa smiles knowingly as she settles next to Lyonne on the floor once more. “Sure~ Now, why don’t you help your mama out and run by me real quick how that exploit went again.”
__________________________________________________
Tonight was just another night that Nerissa was over at the Novella household but for this particular night, they wouldn’t be for long. The plan for dinner was to go out for a nice change of pace and to treat themselves. It was Nerissa’s plan of course and she had just the perfect place in mind.
Currently the demon and the Archiver were waiting for the kids in the living room to get ready but after a while, the latter was starting to get a tad suspicious.
“What is taking them so long…” Shiori sighs and just as she stands to check on them, Lyonne appears alongside Beatrice. Neither of them evidently ready. “Wha– I thought you two were getting ready?”
“Actually mom, why don’t you and Nerissa go? Just the two of you?” Lyonne says. Beatrice nods in agreement.
“But what about the two of you? Are you not going to be eating dinner at all?” Nerissa asks with concern laced in her voice. Beatrice snickers as she teasingly elbows her brother in the side, “Lyonne can cook, can’t you big bro?”
The young man grunts, giving Bea a look. “Yeah yeah I can handle it. Wanted to try a new recipe.”
“Yeah the worse you have to worry about me is that I eat burnt food.”
“That was one time Bea.”
Still Nerissa and Shiori are reluctant. “Are you guys sure? It’s a pretty nice place,” Nerissa tries to persuade once more but the kids merely grin back at her. “All the more for you two to have fun together,” Lyonne says.
“But not too muc–!” Lyonne slaps a hand over Beatrice’s mouth, muffling the rest of her sentence but the message gets across nonetheless. Nerissa laughs sheepishly, completely oblivious to the way Shiori’s cheeks turn a light pink.
Lyonne gives a reassuring smile, “I can handle it for tonight mom, I promise.” Shiori lets out a sigh before giggling softly, “Okay… but if you need anything, don’t hesitate to call.” She walks over and gives both Beatrice and Lyonne kisses on the forehead goodbye.
As she leaves for the front door, Nerissa approaches them and wastes no time leaning in close. “Cheeky, aren’t you two?” she whispers, “I’ll send you a picture of the dessert menu as thanks later.” With a wink, a wordless agreement and mutual waves goodbye, Nerissa joins Shiori outside.
They take Nerissa’s car to the destination the demon had in mind and it doesn’t take long at all for them to arrive.
“I’m going to be honest Rissa, this wasn’t the place I was expecting,” Shiori says as soon as they sit down at their table. Nerissa feels worry bubble up in her chest.
The restaurant Nerissa had decided on wasn’t fine dining, more of a bistro for that comfort feeling. No tense atmosphere or high expectations or fancy stuff with all the course meals. It was meant to be all casual.
“You don’t like it? I know you don’t like all the high prices and small portion sizes so I picked this spot,” Nerissa says to which Shiori shakes her head with an earnest smile. “You’re right. Just surprised is all.”
Nerissa hums as she glances over the menu, “Would’ve loved to have the kids here though.” Shiori allows herself to smirk. “So that wasn’t part of your plan?” she teases and Nerissa gasps. “Excuse me?! It was not! I invited everyone out genuinely.”
“I was kidding, I was kidding! I know you didn’t, just wanted to tease is all,” the Archiver giggles as Nerissa breathes a sigh of relief. “Thank you though, for always keeping them in mind.”
“I promised, didn't I?” Shiori hums and the conversation ends there momentarily as they focus on ordering food.
As the waiter walks away with their orders taken, Shiori props her arm on the table and places her chin on her hand. “This reminds me of the times we used to eat out together,” Shiori mumbles and Nerissa unconsciously smiles at the memory.
“That old place near the Advent house?”
“Yeah, that one. Had really good desserts, we could bring Lyonne and Beatrice there some time,” Shiori suggests. “Sure, but it’s been a while so I’m not sure if it’s open still,” Nerissa says quietly and that causes Shiori to quirk a brow.
“I couldn’t go after… you know.”
“Oh.”
The Archiver clears her throat. “Well I heard from the doggos that it's still open. Still doing well even,” “A place for another time then,” Nerissa certainly wouldn’t say no to another opportunity like this.
“For a date?” Shiori jokes but before Nerissa can think twice she answers, “For anything you want.”
It takes a moment before the words process and as soon as they do, Nerissa stutters for an apology but Shiori is all laughs. By some miracle, Nerissa is saved from any further teasing as the waiter returns with their food and the two waste no time in digging in.
Dinner is quiet for the most part between them, only small amounts of small talk occurring that consisted of just asking how the food was. It was great and Nerissa takes a mental note to remember this place for future reference.
After they finish and ask to pack their leftovers, they’re still left to wait a little bit more for the desserts Nerissa ordered. That leads to Nerissa asking the question she’s been meaning to ask ever since a little after they got here.
“Shiorin?”
“Hm?”
“Did you mean what you said earlier?” Shiori looks serious all of a sudden. Concerned. “Did I… say something wrong…?”
Nerissa shakes her head. “No no, the… the date thing. Did you mean it?” “Oh,” Shiori visibly relaxes before leaning back into her chair. The demon is stuck holding her breath before the Archiver nods with an easy going smile. “I did,” Shiori confirms.
Nerissa’s eyes widened significantly. “Do you really–?”
“Yeah… you’re already here so often and, you know I figured might as well not give the kids mixed signals,” Shiori says and Nerissa gulps, the anxiety in her chest hard to ignore. “Even after…?”
Shiori sighs softly. Fond, understanding. The same she always used to years ago when comforting any member of Advent, Nerissa included.
“That’s all in the past, Rissa. We’ve forgiven each other and moved on, haven’t we? If archiving has given me anything besides the opportunity to meet Advent, it’s teaching me that sometimes all that matters is what we do next in a story,” Shiori grins as she leans forward onto the table, “Does that help?”
Nerissa nods slowly. “Yeah… yeah…”
“So?”
“I’ll think of something.”
A smirk makes its way on Shiori’s face alongside the familiar glint in her eyes, “I look forward to it.” Not long after, they receive their ordered desserts and make their way straight home. On the drive back, Shiori keeps her hand intertwined with Nerissa’s whenever given the chance.
Only when they enter the house do their hands finally let go of one another.
“Alright, I think I should be heading home now. It’s getting pretty late,” Nerissa says after placing the paper bag of food on the kitchen counter, “Tell the kids I said goodbye and thank you. Oh, about going out again, I’ll make sure to message you.”
“Why not stay over for the night?”
Nerissa freezes in place for a bit before mustering the courage to turn around and meet Shiori’s gaze. The latter leans against the kitchen counter whilst waiting for an answer but Nerissa frankly hasn’t even processed said offer.
Instead she was too distracted – too enraptured by the sight of Shiori looking heavenly even just underneath the soft flow of the lights above. A second passes and Nerissa’s brain thankfully goes back to being able to function.
“Are you sure?” Shiori giggles, “I was the one that asked Reese.”
“Right,” Nerissa clears her throat while Shiori rolls her eyes. “The guest room is still a little bit of a mess though so you’ll need somewhere else to sleep.”
“I can take the couch.”
Shiori narrows her eyes at Nerissa. A rare occurrence, saved for when Nerissa really wasn’t watching after herself when she should. “I would never. Just share my room with me. There’s plenty of space.”
“B-but–”
“B–b-b-but what? Are you saying you don’t want to?” Shiori teases but her jabs receive no response from Nerissa. The Demon of Sound has instead resorted to walking forward which forces Shiori to move back all the way until the back of her hip hits the edge of the kitchen counter gently. Still Nerissa tries to corner the Archiver to the point Shiori was forced to sit on top of said counter.
Nerissa carefully places her hands on each side of Shiori’s thighs and she’s silent as she looks up into Shiori’s golden eyes, occasionally flitting down to her lips.
“...Rissa?”
“Shiorin, may I…?”
A hum and Nerissa slowly starts to lean in but before she can close the gap between their lips, something moves in the corner of her eye.
“Hey mom! How was that– OH!”
The two jerk away from one another in an instant, both turning simultaneously to see Beatrice and Lyonne standing there in their sleepwear. In lieu of anything to say to defend herself, Nerissa turns her back to them as she suppresses the urge to scream in sheer embarrassment.
Shiori on the other hand leisurely gets off the counter and dusts herself off like normal as if her face wasn’t the same shade as a tomato. “What are you two still doing awake?”
“We wanted our spoi– I mean desserts, we were in the middle of a movie. Besides, it’s the weekend mom,” Beatrice points out and the room falls silent. Nerissa hears the crinkling of plastic behind her followed by a barely audible, “Here, have fun with your movie.”
“Thanks mom!” “Night mom.”
Even as their footsteps fade away, Nerissa doesn’t move, only choosing to turn around when Shiori coaxes her to do so by her shoulders. Nerissa feels a kiss on her cheek and when she meets Shiori’s kind eyes, she feels a little better when she spots Shiori equally just as shy as she is.
Shiori’s hands on her shoulders trail down to hold her hands, “Shall we?”
Ironically not trusting her own voice, Nerissa nods and allows herself to be led to Shiori’s room.
Nerissa begins to stir, blindly reaching out to seek a familiar missing sense of warmth only to find none. That causes her to wake up a little and she whines at the realization. Shiori wasn’t at her side.
She moves to sit up and rubs at her eyes with the back of her hand before swinging her feet off the side of the bed to get up. She shivers as her feet touch the cold floor, compelling the demon to simply shuffle out of Shiori’s room wearing nothing but shorts and an oversized t-shirt Shiori had that still just reached the middle of her thighs.
When Nerissa enters the open plan living room, she spots the kids on the couch still in their sleepwear from last night watching television. There’s sound coming from the kitchen too and Nerissa presumes that it had to be Shiori making breakfast.
First Nerissa makes her way over to the kids. She ruffles Lyonne’s head from behind and places a kiss to the back of Beatrice’s, muttering a good morning. Then after she heads over to the kitchen, walking up behind Shiori and subtly making her presence known before wrapping her arms around the shorter woman’s waist, propping her head atop Shiori’s.
“Morning Rissa.”
“Morning,” Nerissa says with a slight yawn, “You’ve gotten good at cooking.”
“I try. Still make mistakes though once in a while.”
“You’ll get the hang of it,” Nerissa mumbles and she places a kiss on Shiori’s cheek before reluctantly pulling away to allow her the space to cook the rest of breakfast. In the meantime, Nerissa helps make simple toast.
Once the two are done, Nerissa takes it upon herself to set the table while Shiori goes to call the kids over. At the table, Nerissa and Shiori were sat on one side while Lyonne and Beatrice sat on the other.
“Oh yeah, thanks for the desserts yesterday mama. They were real good.”
Nerissa pauses as she looks up from her place at Beatrice with wide eyes.
“What did you call me?”
Beatrice raises a brow, a little confused and a little worried. “Mama…?”
Nerissa’s lip quivers and she feels something wet slide down both her cheeks. Beatrice's face morphs into full blown panic. “Ah! Did I say something wrong–? I’m sorry I–!”
Nerissa laughs, light and airy, even whilst tears spill from her eyes. The hand rubbing her back comfortingly definitely helped too. “No! No! I’m okay just…” Nerissa sniffles, her eyes glancing between Lyonne and Beatrice fondly.
“I’m just really happy,” she looks over at Shiori who smiles at her and Nerissa can’t resist the urge to lean in and kiss her like she wanted to yesterday. Just a peck though, after all–
“Oh not at the table mama!”
They pull away and Nerissa grins from ear to ear while Shiori clears her throat giving Beatrice a look. “Finish your food Beatrice, and who asked you to look?”
“You’re sitting right across from me!”
“Bea stop my orange juice…”
Breakfast goes on as normally as it could for the family and Nerissa finds she couldn’t ask for more. Couldn’t feel more content than she did now.
All was right in the world, and if it wouldn’t be, Nerissa trusts she can navigate her way back home.
__________________________________________________
Fin.