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Vex always had a niche interest in admiring the stars and constellations. Percy had seemed to take notice as they laid side by side on the grassy hill.
“What are you thinking about right now?”
She pointed a finger at the belt of stars that were more prolific during tonight.
“Doesn’t that look a bit like a diadem to you? When Vax and I were on our own as we left our father, we came up with this game to create stories and names for all these stars, something we did sometimes with our mother before.”
Her casual tone dropped a sense of solemnity in Percy’s heart as he saw the pained familiarity creeping to her face. He offered his own tale to follow.
”When I was younger, I would sneak out most nights to creep under the Sun Tree with one of my favorite astronomy book. Avid bookworm as I was, I was generous to always share whatever new facts I learned. Made for better memories than relying on them for survival and tracking.”
Vex’s eyes prickled at the heaviness of his words. Maybe if they had crossed paths when they were younger, there may have been a different outcome.
“Seems like we both needed a trip like this to clear our heads, although I never thought you such a sap, Percy!”
“It’s true, I must admit, although consider yourself lucky you see this better side of me.”
The banter came like a second nature to them with each vulnerable conversation. Taken as a sign they were to overcome whatever they came across.
”Although, I will say that larger star looks like a diamond, something fit for a lady I’d say.”
She sat upright as Percy’s words registered with her. Percy followed as he took her left hand into his.
”Are you saying—?”
”I think I am, and I hope I’m right in assuming your answer.”