Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sun shines through the pink curtains covering the windows on Galinda’s side of the room. It gives the whole room a bright pink glow that she loves. Galinda, having finished her morning routine, goes over to the window and opens them, letting in unfiltered sunlight.

“Elphie! Get up! You’re going to make us late,” she trills, trying to rouse her sleeping roommate.

Elphaba grumbles and yanks the pink comforter over her head. “Five more minutes,” she retorts.

“You said that five minutes ago. Now it’s 7:30, and you’ve got fifteen minutes to get ready.” Galinda pulls the blanket back down. “Really, how you get ready so quickly I’ll never understand.”

Elphaba squints against the bright light and fumbles for her glasses on the nightstand. “Some people don’t need to brush their hair out 100 times each morning or choose between four very similar pink outfits.”

Galinda rolls her eyes. Elphie is always so cranky before her morning caffeine. She starts gathering Elphaba’s books and then her own, tossing them in their separate bags. “Stop pouting. I got you tea and your favorite pastry. Now let’s get going.”

“Alright, alright.” Elphaba stretches and yawns, shuffling over to the bathroom.

Galinda hums as she makes the bed and goes to open the balcony doors to let in the morning breeze. The glass window is still broken; it’d been temporarily fixed with some poor craftsmanship using fabric and tape. Eventually, Elphaba promises she’s going to learn a mending spell. Until then, Galinda enjoys the sight of their attempt at fixing the glass, even though it is an eye sore. That’s because it reminds the blonde of her first interaction with her friend— her first time experiencing Elphaba’s magic in close proximity. The memory of hating Elphie so much because her roommate had the talent that she longed to possess, right at her finger tips. And oh, she’d been impressed and captivated, despite the magic manifesting in such a jarring way. Instinctively, she’d known in the first meeting that Elphaba was special. Galinda just hadn’t foreseen how their relationship would evolve.

Since the Oz Dust, their relationship completely shifted into one of mutual trust and respect. Galinda truly saw Elphaba for the first time that night. She watched in real time how her own actions deeply stung her roommate. When they danced together, connecting deeply, a wordless apology met by immeasurable forgiveness… After that, how could everything not change?

Galinda realized how selfish and unfair she’d been. She took the day after the Oz Dust to rearrange the room. Elphaba didn’t have nearly as many things as her. In any case, Galinda transformed the whole dorm into a common space, with an area for Elphaba’s clothes, various pairs of boots, and enough shelves to display all of her books.

Now, they share practically everything, even having sleepovers in the same bed most nights.

So, she enjoys this morning routine—grumpy as Elphaba can be—it’s nice to start each day together.

Elphaba exits the bathroom, dressed, ready, and wearing one of the small pink hair clips Galinda has given her.

Galinda is practically bouncing with excitement when she notices. “Oh look! It goes so well with your outfit.” She’s been slowly trying to add a bit of pink, or any flair at all, into Elphaba’s daily drab wardrobe.

“Tea.” Elphaba outstretches her hand. Galinda passes her the travel cup. It is lukewarm by now, but Elphaba doesn’t care. She wraps the pastry in a napkin and shoves it into her bag before flinging it over her right shoulder. Her other arm is occupied by Galinda—a normal part of their routine at this point.

The two walk down the corridor arm in arm. Elphaba nods and sips her tea, processing as much of Galinda’s morning chatter as she can before the caffeine kicks in. She still isn’t quite used to staying up so late and “best-friending,” as Galinda likes to call it. She really needs to persuade Galinda to let her read at night instead. Anything to help her relax and unwind before bed.

A fairly average day of classes is ahead of them: Biology, gym, lunch, and then history. 

Of course, Elphaba knows Galinda is likely only looking forward to going to gym and then lunch. The first, so she can work on her sparring. Galinda is determined to beat her, and while Elphaba always proves stronger, Galinda is lighter on her feet, and it makes for a good match. Then, lunch is the most important time to catch up on any campus gossip.

Just in time, Elphaba and Galinda sit down in biology before the teacher begins writing on the board. There is a long lab table in front of them instead of the usual desks. It is filled with different sizes of test tubes, flasks, and a Bunsen burner.

Elphaba is already measuring a light blue liquid from a flask and mixing it into a clear liquid. She glances over at Galinda, who is supposed to be taking notes, but is instead making eyes at Fiyero.

“Galinda, can you please focus and hand me that test tube?” Most classes including Fiyero begin this way. Especially if the subject happens to be one that her roommate doesn’t find as quite as interesting as boys.

Galinda, feeling a gentle elbow to the ribs, shakes herself out of her reverie and turns to Elphaba. “Right, right, sorry, what was it you needed again?”

Elphaba sighs, pinching the bridge of her nose. It’s going to be one of those days– futilely trying to get Galinda to focus on class and then inevitably going over all the notes from throughout the day right before bed.

_______

The rest of the day passes in a blur until they arrive at Elphaba’s favorite class- history. She has a handful of poppies picked for Doctor Dillamond to replace the ones that were knocked over the other day. Glancing around the room, she doesn’t notice her professor, odd as he isn’t usually one to be late. Elphaba feels uneasy. The energy in class is different today and tension begins to gather in her neck and shoulders. She glances to her right at Galinda, who is sitting in between her and Fiyero. The blonde is touching his shoulder and giggling. Elphaba rolls her eyes and searches the room to see if any other students in the classroom sense the same energy or if it’s just one of those things that makes her strange. She feels the small hairs on the back of her neck stand up. 

All of a sudden, Doctor Dillamond enters the classroom with a severe amount of urgency. All eyes turn to look at him. “My dear students, this is my last day here at Shiz. You see, Animals are no longer permitted to teach.”

Elphaba jumps to her feet. “What?”

Galinda, noticing the amount of distress radiating from Elphaba, places a gentle hand on her arm. “Elphie…” But Elphaba pays her no mind.

“It’s alright, Miss Elphaba... I’ll be alright.” Doctor Dillamond attempts to de-escalate his favorite student’s response. 

An abrupt whistle blast echoes through the classroom, startling everyone. Two uniformed guards enter, followed by the Shiz University President, Miss Coddle.

“Students, remain calm, please, there’s no cause for alarm.” Miss Coddle tries to project an air of authority over the room.

“What is this, what’s happening? Elphaba’s attempting not to panic, but she feels something building in her, much stronger than just general unease.

Galinda tries in vain to get Elphaba’s attention, grabbing her hand and squeezing. “Elphaba, sit down.” She urges.

The guards approach and begin dragging Doctor Dillamond away. He continues calling out to the room. “Don’t worry! They can take away my job, but I shall continue speaking out! Listen to me! You’re not being told the whole story!”

“Come on goat.” One of the guards roughly pulls Doctor Dillamond all the way out of the classroom.

Elphaba yanks her hand from Galinda’s grasp and hurries down to the center floor of the classroom. She turns in desperation to the other students.

“Are we all just going to sit here in silence?!” Elphaba looks around a room full of apprehensive students, all avoiding eye contact. Elphaba– searching for any connection with her fervent pleas– locks eyes with Galinda; her green eyes beseechingly staring up toward her friend.

Galinda isn’t an idiot. Elphaba’s expression say it all; she’s imploring the blonde to join her and voice her own concerns as well. But how can she possibly help? What can be done once the school president has decreed these new rules in front of the whole class? The first to break the eye contact between them– Galinda looks down at her hands and clasps them on the desk. She certainly doesn't feel good about it, but also doesn’t currently have a better course of action.

Miss Coddle spins to level a stern glare at Elphaba. “That’s quite enough, Miss Elphaba. Take your seat.”

Elphaba clutches the poppies she picked for Doctor Dillamond tighter in her hand, making a fist.

Galinda, noticing her friend’s hand shaking, heads down to lead her back up towards their seats. “Elphie?” She quietly struggles to get Elphaba’s full attention. Elphaba refuses to look at her and shrugs Galinda’s hand off her shoulder before sitting back down.

Miss Coddle claps her hands, trying to get the classroom to refocus. “Students! Your new history professor, Professor Nikidik, has prepared a special presentation!”

A somber looking man, mustached and wearing round glasses enters the classroom. He pushes a cloth-covered, rectangular package on a cart to the center of the room. The whole cart shakes slightly on its own. Everyone leans forward in their seats, curiosity getting the better of them. 

“Good afternoon, students.” The new professor greets them as if they haven’t just witnessed something incredibly bewildering.

An unenthusiastic “good afternoon” echoes through the lecture hall.

Galinda completely focuses on keeping Elphaba from having another outburst; she rests her hand on top of her roommates’. There isn’t much she feels she can do other than remind Elphaba that she’s always there for her. They’ll be able to talk after class, to see if anything at all can be done about Doctor Dillamond.

Elphaba unclenches her fist, letting go of the poppies, now a bit crumpled. She glances quickly at Galinda who mouths an “I’m sorry” at her. Elphaba nods in response, accepting the quick apology.

The new professor continues, “In times such as these, it behooves us all, not merely to study the past, but to look to the future!”

Nikidik pulls the cloth off the mysterious package with a flourish, revealing a small cage with a shaking lion cub inside. The class sounds with a few “aww”s from surrounding students.

Elphaba’s eyes widen with horror. Galinda notices the second Elphaba’s distress begins to intensify— the profound concern on her face. Galinda instinctively takes Elphaba’s hand in her own, lacing their fingers together and beginning to draw gentle circles with her thumb on the back of her friend's hand. 

Professor Nikidik continues to explain the confusifying sight in front of them. “This is called a cage.” He spins around to write on the chalkboard. “This remarkable innovation is for the good of all Oz, as well as for the Animal’s own good. You see--“  As the professor begins to resume his lecture the cub shoves itself into a corner of the cage – hissing and shaking.

“If it’s so good for him then why is he trembling?” Elphaba stands from her seat again. This time allowing Galinda to keep ahold of her hand. It’s a subtle, calming pressure that is keeping her grounded while she’s being forced to take in the sight of such strange horrors being laid in front of them. It isn’t anger she’s feeling, but intense panic for the young Animal’s wellbeing.

Nikidik deflects Elphaba’s question. “He’s just excited to be here! Now, one benefit of caging an animal this young is: he will likely never learn to speak!”

The rest of the class starts taking notes, nodding along dutifully, seemingly intrigued.

Galinda, glances over to Fiyero who seems concerned for the small Animal as well. She nudges him and gestures to Elphaba. “Help.”

Fiyero’s eyes widen. “What do you want me to do. Pull the fire alarm or something?”

Galinda knew he was kidding but that actually might work, some sort of distraction might be just what they needed.

“Can you imagine a world where Animals are kept in cages, and never speak?!” Elphaba loudly addresses the classroom again. She cannot fathom how so many people don’t see the horrifying consequences that this could bring to all of Oz.

Galinda finally gives up on her subtle (if you could even call it that) approach. She stands, grabbing Elphaba by the shoulders firmly. She needs her friend’s full attention and by Oz she’s going to get it. “What is this going to accomplish right now, Elphie?” She demands under her breath. “After class we can-“

But Elphaba refuses to be deterred. “If not now, when? Don’t you understand what this will do, Galinda?” She replies heatedly.

She doesn’t. Not entirely in this moment. She does want to help Elphaba, but making a scene isn’t going to get them anywhere.

“Elphie?”

But Elphaba won’t let those pleading big brown eyes distract her from the issue at hand.

Without warning, the crumpled poppies resting on the desk begin to rise from the table in front of them. The flowers move across the classroom, a cluster spinning and hovering over each table of students.

Galinda’s eyes widen as she watches the poppies levitate right in front of them. It’s memorizing and she knows, somehow she just knows that Elphaba’s magic has done this. All of those emotions welling up inside her friend needed somewhere to go and they did- in the form of beautiful magic.

Everyone begins to notice now, looking overhead. Then, a strange yellow dust begins to emerge from the flowers, and one by one students’ heads begin to fall to their desks.

“No, oh, no.” Elphaba wrings her hands, looking around the classroom at the chaos she’s inevitably caused.

“Elphie, what is…?” But before Galinda can finish her question she catches Fiyero’s head before it lands hard on the table in front of him. She, as subtly as possible, leans over to check Fiyero’s pulse- just in case.

“Oh, Elphie, they’re just sleeping.” Galinda calls out, unfortunately getting a mouthful of pollen in the process, which starts a sneezing fit. Regaining her ability to breathe, and also wondering why she’s the only one still awake, she searches the room for Elphaba.

Through the yellow haze of pollen, before she has time to fully comprehend what’s going on, Elphaba has the sleeping cub wrapped in her black blazer and is calling up to Galinda.

“We’re kidnapping a lion?” Galinda is flabbergasted by this plan.

“Do you have a better idea?” Elphaba asks.

She didn’t. “No, not exactly.”

“Well, are you coming?” Elphaba is already hurrying toward the door. “Let’s go before everyone wakes up.”

Galinda thinks that might be one of the dumbest questions her roommate has ever asked. “Of course I’m coming,” and she follows quickly out of the classroom.

—------------

Catching up with Elphaba, Galinda looks down at the adorable sleeping cub as they walk away from campus. “Where are we going?”

“The woods will be safe.” Elphaba replies, thinking on her feet. “Lions can survive in the woods, right?”

Galinda is regretting the outfit she chose for the day, not realizing she be running in a skirt and heels. “I don’t know but how will we get there? We aren’t exactly seasoned woodsmen.”

“There!” Elphaba points to a conveniently placed tandem bicycle with a wicker basket attached to the back. They hurry over and Elphaba gently places the Lion in Galinda’s arms.

“You stay on the back, keep an eye on him. I’ll guide us there.” Elphaba sits in front and takes the handle bars. This sudden burst of confidence after an act of magic is a strange sensation. Instead of feeling guilty, she feels relieved, accomplished, like she’s finally doing something good.

“Where?” Galinda replies quietly, placing the groggy little Lion gently in the basket and propping the lid open so he can breathe.

“Far enough from here that we won’t need to worry about them capturing him again.”

Once the Lion is settled, Galinda, determining being safe is more important than fashion in that moment, rips the side slits of her skirt so she can properly help ride the bike.

Elphaba, though caught up in the current adrenaline rush of illegally kidnapping an Animal from school, raises her eyebrows at Galinda.

“What?” The blonde huffs. “Safety first.” She flashes Elphaba a little smile.

Elphaba can’t quite discern what about Galinda’s smile makes her heart flutter. There isn’t time in this moment to focus on that. She files it away for later and turns forward.

“Ready?”

Galinda’s reply from behind her is soft and sincere. “By your side, I’m ready for anything.”

“Then let’s go.”

_________________

Teaser for Chapter two: Sudden Heat

Elphaba kneels down by the Lion cub, petting it as it takes a drink from the lake.

“Elphie?” Most of her outfit ruined by this point anyway, Galinda decides to join her in the mud near the lake. 

“Hm?” Elphaba turns, noticing a small scratch on her friend’s cheek. “You’re bleeding.”  She touches it gently. “The Lion must’ve scratched you.” Without thinking, Elphaba glides her thumb gently across the wound. Unexpectedly, a little flash of something, like a small spark from an electric plug, glances across the cut and heals it completely.

Galinda has to suppress a gasp as she feels a little jolt while Elphaba’s thumb caresses her cheek. “Ouch.”

She must be imagining things, because her cheek is stinging or it was, but now her whole face feels impossibly warm. Her heart is hammering in her chest. She didn’t realize what close proximity they were in- the fading sunlight causing Elphaba’s eyes to sparkle. Galinda feels silly…But the way she can get lost in Elphaba’s eyes, and her freckles are so cute, there are too many to count, although during some sleepless nights cuddling together in bed, she certainly tries.

Chapter Text

Chapter Two: Sudden Heat

Once the girls have ridden as far as the bike can take them through the forest, they lean the stolen vehicle against a tree and continue on foot—heading over to a small lake in the middle of a clearing. Elphaba has the, now awake, Lion cub in her arms. He’s purring softly and looking up at her. Galinda is trailing behind them trying to carefully climb over fallen, moss-covered branches. 

“What happened back there? I mean, everyone fell asleep but why not me?” Galinda asks, just as her heel gets stuck in the mud. “Ugh!” She stumbles and yanks her foot free, bending down to rescue her shoe.

“Shh, you’re scaring him.” Elphaba sets the Lion down by the water’s edge so he can take a drink. She kneels down by the cub, petting him gently.

“Elphie?” Most of her outfit ruined by this point anyway, Galinda decides to join her friend near the water.

“I don’t know what happened.” Elphaba shrugs. “You know I can’t control it. I just needed to do something, but I didn’t want to hurt anyone.” 

“Well, good news. You didn’t hurt anyone and you even saved someone.” Galinda places her hand gently on her friend’s arm. She sees Elphaba take a deep breath in and out, her shoulders visibly relaxing. Galinda looks down at the adorable little Lion. “He’s going to be alright.”

“You think so?” Elphaba turns to see Galinda smiling sweetly at her.

“I know so.” 

Elphaba forces herself to look up from Galinda’s lips (not usually such a difficult task) and notices a small scratch on her friend’s cheek. “You’re bleeding.”  She touches the wound gently. “The Lion must’ve scratched you.” Without a second thought, Elphaba glides her thumb gently across the cut. Unexpectedly, a little flash of something, like a small spark from an electric plug, glances across the wound and heals it completely.

Galinda has to suppress a gasp as she feels a little jolt while Elphaba’s thumb caresses her cheek. “Ouch.”

She must be imagining things, because her cheek is stinging or it was, but now her whole face feels impossibly warm. Her heart is hammering in her chest. She didn’t realize what close proximity they were in- the fading sunlight causing Elphaba’s green eyes to sparkle. Galinda feels silly…But the way she can get lost in Elphaba’s eyes, and her freckles are so cute, there are too many to count. Although, during some sleepless nights cuddling together in bed, she certainly tries.

“Galinda?” Elphaba says, voice low and quiet. No response. She recognizes that dreamy look in roommate’s eyes. It’s the same one she gets when she flirts with Fiyero. Elphaba feels her pulse begin to quicken. She takes a steadying breath. 

Of course, Elphaba has caught her friend looking at her this way too. Usually followed by gentle teasing or completely changing the subject. Elphaba has grown accustomed to the blonde’s presence. There’s nearly always a soft smile on Galinda’s lips, a hand touching Elphaba somewhere- her shoulder, her arm, her waist. Their closeness is just part of her daily life at this point.

She’s woken up many a morning with Galinda’s arm around her waist, the blonde’s head resting on her shoulder. Despite not being a morning person, Elphaba occasionally wakes up early—unbeknownst to her friend— and has found herself (more often than not lately) watching the way the morning light hits the blonde’s features. Her cheeks kissed with sunlight; her messy golden curls splayed across Elphaba’s chest. It’s during those early mornings that she’ll quietly acknowledge her growing feelings for her friend— a fondness that is more than just for Galinda’s friendship. She won’t act on it until she can be absolutely sure that Galinda feels the same way. After all, it certainly seems like Galinda has more than just friendly feelings towards her. But then she’ll go and spend all day flirting with Fiyero. It stings more than Elphaba likes to admit.

Still, the way Galinda is looking at her- like she sees something inside of her that she doesn’t even know about herself. Elphaba suddenly feels strangely exposed. She clears her throat and tries again, a little more firmly.

“Galinda? Didn’t you feel that?”

Galinda looks up. “Feel what?” Shoot. How long has she been staring? Galinda looks down at the water and over towards the Lion. Right. Right! The Lion. That’s why they are here. Alone. In the woods. Close enough to kiss. But why would they do that? That’s ridiculous.

“Never mind.” Elphaba sighs. She feels like might be losing her mind. Perhaps she’s just exhausted from the adrenaline of doing spontaneous magic and committing a crime. She’s thinking of gathering up the Lion cub to move him deeper into the forest and sending Galinda back to their room to clean herself up when she hears Galinda gasp.

“Your magic…”

Elphaba follows Galinda’s gaze and notices luminescent pink flowers blossoming around them. It makes the clearing look like a beautiful fairyland- the light sparkles in Galinda’s eyes.

“Oh. I-I’m not sure what’s …” Elphaba’s heart flutters in her chest. She suddenly feels incredibly warm all over, just now realizing that Galinda’s hand has been resting on her thigh.

Galinda notices as a dark green blush colors her friend’s cheeks. “Elphie?”

“I-I should go… move the Lion… farther into the forest. You probably want to clean up. I’ll see you back at the room.”

“I’m glad we could rescue him together.” Galinda feels dismay at the absence of Elphaba’s warmth as her friend stands quickly, leaving her side.

Elphaba nods. “Together.” She’s already scooping up the Lion in her arms and turning away towards the woods.

Galinda sighs as she watches Elphaba rush off. “Stupid.” She mutters aloud to the empty forest. Being infatuated with her roommate is stupid, staring at her like that was stupid; she’s clearly pushing her luck. But still…this feels markedly different than other quiet moments between them, almost romantic. The way Elphaba’s magic appeared— soft and sweet and gentle. Galinda looks at the beautiful glowing flowers surrounding her. She’s never seen Elphaba’s magic manifest in this way before; she knows that her friend’s magic is tied to her emotions. The blonde sighs, unsure of what her next step will be.

—————-

The little Lion swipes and growls at Elphaba as she hurries away from the clearing. Heart racing and her head spinning— she decides to redirect her focus to the task at hand— safely releasing the Lion cub. She realizes he’s probably able to sense her anxiety. Taking a deep breath, she situates him properly so he will calm down.

“It’s alright little guy.”

The Lion settles and she sets him down in a heavily wooded area. Certainly there are other Animals nearby that will be willing to take him under their wing. He seems cautious, exploring his new surroundings slowly.

“I’m sorry. I wish there was somewhere else to take you.” Elphaba sighs, realizing this is the best option available at the moment. Ultimately, she would like to leave the cub in another Animal’s care. However, the only ones she knows nearby live close to Doctor Dillamond’s home and obviously that area isn’t safe right now.

Reaching into her book bag, Elphaba tears a page out of her notebook. “Please look after me.” She scribbles on the paper. She removes her hair tie and places it around the Lion’s neck like a collar, tucking the note into it.

“Good luck.” The Lion rubs against her and she gives him a few scritches before he wanders his way into the brush.

————

Making her way through the woods, Elphaba hands shaking and she feels lightheaded- her body reeling from the effects of performing so much magic. It’s dark now as she begins to retrace her steps back to the clearing where she left Galinda- hoping that her friend is safely back in their dorm. Heaven knows all she needs now is for Galinda to get lost in the forest at night.

Galinda…

As her thoughts drift back to her friend more flowers begin to pop up around her. They faintly illuminate her path back to the main trail.

Elphaba curses under her breath. They both know her magic is tied to her emotions. These flowers popping up is basically the equivalent of her lighting candles and scattering rose petals around their room. Stupid. While Galinda is truly awful at hiding her feelings at least she can try without subconsciously exposing them for everyone to see.

____________

Elphaba returns to find muddy pink heels outside their door- a welcome sight, because that means Galinda’s made it back to the room safely. She opens the door quietly to find the blonde sitting on her bed in a sheer pink robe, hair wrapped in a towel to dry.

Galinda’s eyes meet hers and Elphaba immediately averts her gaze. Looking at her boots like they are suddenly the most interesting thing in the room. She begins to focus on unlacing them so as not to track mud across the floor.

“How did it go?” Galinda’s voice is soft and gentle.

Elphaba shrugs, not looking up from her feet as she kicks off her boots.

“As well as can be expected.”

“Good…”

Uncomfortable silence settles between them. Their eyes meet. Galinda’s gaze moves down- briefly settling on Elphaba’s lips before she looks back up.

Elphaba turns away, fumbling for her night dress that’s hanging near their bed.

“Elphie, do you think… maybe we should talk?”

Refusing to look up, Elphaba replies quietly, “I don’t know what you want me to say.”

Undeterred by her friend’s evasiveness, Galinda continues carefully. “Well, I have some things I’d like to say. You can go change and then join me?” She pats the pink bedspread next to her. “If you want to?”

Elphaba nods. “I’d like that.”

“Okay.”

Elphaba turns to see that soft, sweet smile on Galinda’s lips and every bit of resolve she is trying so desperately to hold on to begins to unravel. Before she can do anything impulsive, she hurries to go change, bracing herself for whatever comes next.

————-

Chapter 3 Preview:

Galinda feels Elphaba’s whole hand cup her cheek and leans into her touch. Elphaba, purely running on instinct, glides her finger gently along Galinda’s bottom lip— soft, supple, pink. There’s mere inches between them. Galinda gasps and shudders slightly- her brown eyes full of longing— she waits for Elphaba to make the first move. This closeness is different than anything Elphaba has ever experienced and she wants to explore it further.

Chapter Text

Elphaba exits the bathroom in her off-white nightgown. She finds Galinda drying her hair with a towel- not bothering to brush it out. Once Galinda notices Elphaba coming over, she tosses the wet towel to the floor, scooting over to give her friend enough room on the bed. It surprises her when Elphaba makes the choice to sit close enough that their knees touch.

“Better to be out of those muddy clothes?” The blonde asks quietly, wishing it wasn’t so easy for her to blush. Every brief contact between them this evening makes her face feel hot.

“Mmhm.” Elphaba nods, glancing around nervously— knowing that if she looks into Galinda’s eyes it’s over. Luckily for her, Galinda can’t handle silence for long without trying to fill it.

“I’ve been thinking, I-I’ve just been meaning to tell you that you don’t have to change for people y’know? Especially not me. I mean, I know I said I’d make you popular but I wasn’t trying to change you. Well, maybe initially, but you don’t have to be different for anyone. I just want you to see how beautiful you are.” Galinda rambles nervously.

That wasn’t exactly what she’s been waiting to say all day, but it has been something she’s been thinking about lately— all of the mistakes she made at the beginning of their relationship. She wants Elphie to know that she’s grown as a person— even in just the short amount of time that’s passed since they’ve become good friends— one could even say best friends.

“You think I’m beautiful.” It isn’t a question. It’s a statement. Their eyes meet and there’s a soft longing in that emerald gaze. Galinda feels her heart skip a beat.

“I do.” Galinda replies with the utmost sincerity. You know I do. You have to know I do… believe I do. She thinks to herself.

“You know you’re beautiful.” Elphaba blurts out, looking away, down at her hands folded in her lap.

She hears Galinda laugh gently and feels a warm hand cover her own. “It’s still nice to hear it and it means the most coming from you.” There’s a beat of silence between them before Galinda finally broaches the subject she’s been dancing around all evening.

“Did your magic heal me?” Galinda asks, willing Elphaba to look up at her again.

“I think so.” Elphaba nods, still looking anywhere except Galinda’s face— she’s afraid if she does she’s going to kiss her— anxious that changing things between them could mean losing everything that they have together. And isn’t what they already have enough?

Elphaba finally looks up from their hands and meets her friend’s tender gaze. Galinda holds eye contact, as if poised to say something—— like it’s just on the tip of her tongue.

“Will you touch me again? M-my face. I mean touch my face.”

Galinda’s cheeks flush redder than Elphaba’s ever seen before. Elphaba raises her eyebrows in the way she’s been taught, waiting for her friend to continue. She’s never seen the blonde this nervous and it’s, well, cute.

Galinda is the first one to look away this time. “I want to see something. It’s like an experiment. For science. You like science.”

“I do.” Elphaba nods, agreeing. “But you don’t.” She realizes she’s teasing Galinda just a bit, trying to break the tension between them.

“Oh, shush. Just humor me.” Galinda playfully swats at her friend’s arm.

So, Elphaba obliges. Leaning forward, she begins to trace her thumb over the spot where the cut from the Lion cub had been— now just a faint pink mark.

Goosebumps prick up on Galinda’s arms- she feels dizzy with the possibilities before her. Experiment successful. The same feelings as the ones in the forest wash over her again- but had they ever really left? How long has she been wanting to kiss Elphaba? To see how soft her lips are, to taste her, to feel closer to her than ever before.

Elphaba removes her hand slowly, lingering just a bit. Looking into Galinda’s eyes she doesn’t need to second guess how the blonde feels about her anymore. Galinda is looking at Elphaba with a heated desire that gives her butterflies.

“Well, what’re the results?” Elphaba means it to sound playful— to keep the air between them light, but her question comes out much quieter— her voice lower and huskier then she intended.

“Inconclusive.” Galinda lets out the breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding in. “Again?” Her voice is barely above a whisper; Galinda scoots forward and their knees touch- bare skin to bare skin. The bedside lamp flickers.

Galinda feels Elphaba’s whole hand cup her cheek and leans into her touch. Its all she can do not to let a soft noise of pleasure escape her lips. Elphaba, purely running on instinct, glides her finger gently along Galinda’s bottom lip— soft, supple, pink. There’s mere inches between them. Galinda gasps and shudders slightly.

This closeness is different than anything Elphaba has ever experienced and she wants to explore it further; she slowly removes her hand- eye contact never wavering.

Galinda finally leans forward and closes the gap between them, pressing a gentle kiss to Elphaba’s lips. Elphaba makes a small noise of surprise but kisses back— slowly and carefully. What she’s not prepared for is the enthusiasm with which Galinda responds. A petite hand reaching to cradle the back of Elphaba’s head- pulling her deeper into the kiss. She feels Galinda’s tongue gently flick against her bottom lip. Involuntarily, she makes a small startled noise of surprise that quickly turns to a hum of pleasure as she allows Galinda’s tongue entrance to her mouth. They explore one another’s mouths slowly, drinking in and savoring every taste, every new sensation.

The only reason they break apart is for air. Both girls breathing heavily, Galinda rests her forehead gently against Elphaba’s.

“Sorry, I seem to have gotten a little carried away.” Galinda chuckles, still catching her breath.

Elphaba’s head is still spinning; she’s at a loss for words.

“Was that okay? Are you okay?” Galinda sits back, anxiously biting her bottom lip.

“I’d say our experiment was successful.” Elphaba flashes her that cute, crooked smile Galinda loves so much. “I thoroughly enjoyed that.”

Galinda beams; she’s entirely smitten and there’s no use denying it anymore.

But Elphaba looks down— her demeanor changing suddenly. “Is this what it’s like kissing Fiyero?” She isn’t sure what makes her bring it up, but there’s a tiny nagging insecurity in the back of her head that in the light of day Galinda might regret her choices.

Oh, Fiyero. Galinda hadn’t thought about him, and what a terrible thing to forget.

Galinda takes Elphaba’s hands in her own. “No, this isn’t what it’s like kissing Fiyero.”

Elphaba looks up— heart-stricken.

“No, no! Elphie not that like! Kissing you is SO much better. You have no idea how long I’ve been wanting to kiss you.” And, as if to prove her point, she hooks a finger under Elphaba’s chin and kisses her sweetly. This time it’s Elphaba who deepens the kiss, mouth mimicking the movements of Galinda’s earlier. She feels the blonde’s hands run down her sides, settling on her hips- the pressure of Galinda’s finger tips a pleasant and warm sensation through the fabric of her thin nightgown.

It takes all of Galinda’s restraint not to pull herself into Elphaba’s lap and shower her with the love that she knows Elphie deserves. She wants to kiss and touch away every doubt in that complicated green head of hers.

Elphaba feels reassurance with each new kiss; she’s been waiting so long to experience this. It’s so much better than she ever could’ve imagined. No daydream could do this feeling justice.

The balcony doors slam open and the noise startles them apart.

“Whoops.” Elphaba shrugs, smiling sheepishly.

Galinda giggles, scooting back and giving her friend some space. “At least the glass didn’t break again.” They share a comfortable laugh.

Elphaba gets up to shut the doors, taking a deep breath to stop her head from spinning— still overcome with the pleasant feelings of Galinda’s mouth on hers.

“About Fiyero…” Galinda wants to clear the air— there should be no blurred lines between them. “I’ll talk to him tomorrow.”

Elphaba nods and joins her friend back on the bed; Galinda snuggles up to her, nuzzling into the soft green skin of her friend’s neck. The blonde feels more comfortable than she can ever remember feeling before— more herself.

“I’m not going anywhere Elphie. I want you.”

Elphaba knows she’s smiling like a fool, completely enamored by the lovely woman who has chosen her— of all people. She places a soft kiss to the top of Galinda’s head.

Galinda hums happily. “Elphaba, will you be my girlfriend?” Without so much as a second thought the question slips easily from her lips.

Elphaba’s heart warms at the thought. “I’d like that very much.”

“Good. Me too.” Galinda tilts her head up to capture Elphaba’s lips in a soft kiss.

“Girlfriend.” Elphaba says the word aloud quietly, testing the feel of it in her mouth— the way it sounds out loud— sweet and pleasant.

They scooch down under the covers together. Elphaba making space for Galinda to snuggle against her chest before turning off the light. She feels Galinda wrap an arm around her waist and sigh contently. She thinks, perhaps, this could be another dream— a dream much better than meeting the Wizard— this is her true heart’s desire.

Chapter Text

Elphaba stands waiting outside Galinda’s last class of the day, anxiously twirling the stem of an unopened pink poppy between her fingers. She shifts from foot to foot, glancing at her watch. Elphaba has been planning this date all week and she wants it to go perfectly. It’s silly that she still feels nervous about planning dates. But over the last three months Galinda has arranged most of their outings- and she’s just so good at it. Elphaba finds herself wanting to be just as good at the small romantic gestures that seem to be so effortless for Galinda. She feels a thrum of anxiety flow through her. Elphaba takes a steadying breath and focuses on the flower- thinking of the way Galinda looks cuddled up against her in the mornings, brown eyes fluttering open, almost immediately a sleepy smile lighting up her face before she inevitably leans in for a gentle good morning kiss. The flower blooms slowly. Elphaba smiles.

Over the last few months she’s gotten much better at harnessing her feelings— channeling them into her magic. There’s still the odd mishap during particularly heavy make-out sessions— a burst lightbulb or shattered mirror every now and then. One day she hopes to be able to control her powers during particularly charged moments, mainly because they’re a dead give-away about how much she enjoys particular… activities. She’s gotten much better at using feelings of joy, love, and affection to influence her magic instead of anger and bitterness. It’s a wonder how much Galinda changes her life every day.

Students begin filing out of class. Elphaba searches for blonde hair and a flash of pink— spotting Galinda quickly and smiling as the blonde practically skips over to her. She tosses her books to the floor carelessly and throws her arms over Elphaba’s shoulders, pulling her in for a sweet kiss.

At first, Elphaba felt very uncomfortable with PDA. Of course, Galinda quickly put a stop to that; she insists she doesn’t give a twig who sees that they care for one another. Galinda wants everyone to know and they shouldn’t have to hide their feelings— and if Galinda doesn’t care what everyone else thinks, then why should she? Eventually the hushed, surprised whispering had stopped and they could just blend into the crowd— something Elphaba never thought would be possible for her. Now, they’re just another couple of university students cluttering up the hallway while making out.

“To what do I owe the pleasure?” Galinda asks, beaming. She gathers her books from the floor.

Elphaba tucks the pink poppy into Galinda’s hair. “I’m taking you on a date.”

“Now? But I haven’t had time to get ready and I don’t know where we’re going. How do I know if I’m dressed for the occasion?” Galinda frets; she’s just wearing her usual pink pin-striped school outfit; she hadn’t put much effort into getting ready this morning. She’d been too preoccupied with other things, like Elphaba’s lips. 

Elphaba chuckles and links arms with Galinda. “You look perfect. We’re not going far.”

She sighs in mock-frustration. “Alright, I trust you.”   

“How was your day?” Elphaba asks as she leads Galinda outside and around the Shiz campus.

Galinda will never get tired of this- holding Elphaba’s hand, kissing her whenever she likes, freely being able to show Elphaba affection. Ever since they started dating she just feels lighter. She doesn’t have to second guess any little touch or glance between them. She simply gets to enjoy being with her favorite person. Galinda supposes this must be what it’s like to be dating your best friend.

They come to a path of stones across one of the waterways around Shiz. Elphaba offers to take Galinda’s books and then hops across the first stone.

“Alright, your turn.” Elphaba tucks the books under one arm and then offers her free hand to help her across.

“Jump? Me, jump?” Galinda shakes her head ‘no’. Sticking out her leg dramatically to show off a sparkly pink heel. “I told you I wasn’t dressed for this.”

Elphaba rolls her eyes, but smiles fondly at the blonde’s antics. “It’s just a little hop. You’ll be fine. Galinda, I’ve seen you spar in heels before and win!”

“Elphie, those were wedges! Those are much more stable than these. Haven’t you been paying attention to our lessons?”

Elphaba had, in fact, been paying attention to the fashion lessons Galinda insisted on giving her. Elphaba would help Galinda with sorcery for an hour a night. In return, Elphaba diligently learned about every fashion accessory for any occasion.

“Of course I’ve listened! I’m now prepared for any future event that might include heels.” Elphaba motions for Galinda to jump again. “I promise to catch you if you stumble. I won’t let you fall.”

Galinda sighs and tosses her hair. She knows Elphaba won’t let her fall, that doesn’t mean she has to be happy about jumping. “Okay.” She nods, knitting her brow in concentration; she successfully hops across the first stone.

Elphaba rewards her with a chaste kiss. “See? Easy! You didn’t even need my hand.” 

Elphaba quickly makes her way across the rest of the stones. Galinda not far behind, but her heel catches on the last rock. She stumbles, falling safely into Elphaba’s arms.

“Told you I’d catch you.” Elphaba chuckles and wraps her arms around the blonde’s waist, gently brushing her nose against her girlfriend’s affectionately. “What did I do to get so lucky?” Elphaba muses, kissing Galinda gently.

Galinda pulls back after a moment, soaking in everything Elphaba. In her sweet, crooked smile, in the way the green girl’s face lights up every time they share a tender moment, in the strong, comforting feeling of Elphaba’s arms around her.  She catches herself before three little words can escape her mouth without thinking. Actually, three rather important words that they haven’t said to one another yet. Galinda feels it, of course she does— every day. But she doesn’t want to say it too soon. The moment has to be just right.

Galinda clears her throat and looks away, refocusing her thoughts. “Aren’t we going to be late? We won’t get anywhere if you keep kissing me.” She sticks out her tongue playfully.

“Right! Actually, we do have a schedule. C’mon!” Elphaba grabs Galinda’s hand and leads her through archways covered in pink flowers, up staircases, and down a path that crosses right by the second story library windows.

Galinda really does regret her choice in footwear. “Elphie, we could’ve just cut through the library?” She whines.

“Not unless you can magically fly out the second story window.” Elphaba says over her shoulder.

She stops suddenly, standing in front of Galinda. “Okay, we’re here. Close your eyes for me?”

Galinda nods and shuts her eyes, not wanting to spoil the surprise.

Elphaba feels that nagging anxiety bubbling up in her chest again and takes a deep breath. Gently grabbing both of Galinda’s hands in her own, she leads her to the entrance. 

“Alright, open.” Elphaba instructs, slowly removing her hands from Galinda’s.

The blonde takes in her surroundings. They’re in a little outdoor gazebo built into the natural stone surrounding Shiz. Its roof is covered in the same pink flowers they’d walked past on the way. From the ceiling hangs shards of stained glass that shimmer in the setting sunlight, casting beams of multicolored lighting around them. How has she never seen this part of campus before? It’s breath-taking.

A picnic basket is set up on one of the stone benches with a white and red checkered blanket underneath it. She notices a little place setting with a candle in the middle and two glasses of something clear and sparkling.

“Elphie, it’s beautiful. You put all this together just for me?” Galinda smiles brilliantly at her girlfriend.

Elphaba shrugs, feeling her face get warm. “It’s nothing really, just a silly little thing.”

Galinda steps forward and takes Elphaba’s hands in hers. “Stop that. It’s special because you did this for us.” She leans forward and captures Elphaba’s lips with her own- sliding her tongue into Elphaba’s mouth and kissing her deeply— forgetting for a moment that anything other than the two of them exists in this space.

Elphaba pulls back first— a little out of breath. “That was quite the thank-you.”

Galinda winks at her, before tossing her make-out mussed hair. “Well, you deserve it.”

“Just wait until you see what I brought for us.” Elphaba heads over to the bench and starts to unpack the basket. “I went into town and got all of your favorites.”

Galinda watches as Elphaba sets out salads, sandwiches, and cupcakes from her favorite places. This means she went to three separate cafes to pick up each item that Galinda likes best.

“You didn’t have to do that.” Galinda says, heading over to help Elphaba.

“I know. That’s what makes me so nice.” Elphaba laughs, throwing one of Galinda’s lines back at her.

“You remembered everything I like.” She smiles, her hand brushing against Elphaba’s arm.

“Of course I did. You’re the most important person in my life.” She says, like it’s the most obvious thing in the world. “Well, other than my sister.” Elphaba quickly amends.

There’s a pause and the briefest of moments where both girls lock eyes. The air between them is heavy with words unsaid.

“I love you!” Galinda blurts, eyes wide, blushing deeply. “W-what I mean is…” She puts her head in her hands. So much for the perfect moment.

Elphaba pulls her into a searing kiss that takes Galinda’s breath away; she steps back, green eyes sparkling. “I love you too.”

“Oh, Elphie.” They kiss again; sweet and slow, the world around them fading away, and if Galinda didn’t know any better, she’d say that they fell more in love every day.