Chapter Text
Epilogue
The low rumble of the Hangvan echoed through the quiet highway as it cut through the open road. Gorgug’s blue and white van had become something of a second home for the Bad Kids, especially after long, exhausting adventures.
Kristen leaned back in her seat. The air in the van smelled of worn leather and faintly of Fig’s cinnamon gum, which she’d been chewing on and off since they left Bastion City. Through the cracked window beside her, the breeze carried the familiar, earthy scent of Elmville in the distance.
Gorgug shifted gears, the gentle sound of the van accelerating blending into the soft strumming of Fig’s bass beside Kristen in the farthest back seats. The music was barely audible as Fig’s fingers grazed the strings without urgency, and her foot occasionally tapped against the floor. Kristen glanced over at her, but Fig wasn’t paying attention to her. She was lost in the music, swaying slightly with her head down.
Up front, Fabian flipped through radio stations, his impatience evident. Snatches of static, snippets of music, then silence.
"Can you find something less... staticky?" Adaine piped up.
Fabian huffed, leaning over the radio again. "Patience, Adaine. I'll find a good station."
Gorgug chuckled from behind the wheel. "Or we'll get home before you find one."
Kristen smirked. Gorgug wasn’t wrong. The rest of the drive to Elmville was short—soon they’d pass Krom's Diner, that always left the smell of pancakes wafting into the street at all hours.
Adaine and Riz were seated in the middle row, Riz flipping through a notepad, scribbling notes in his usual hyper-focused post adventure routine. Adaine sat with her head leaned against the window, her eyes half-closed, but she was still listening.
Riz sighed dramatically. “I get why the Council of Chosen wanted to do a debrief in Bastion City, but man… they were completely blind to everything. How do they miss stuff like this?”
Fabian sighed from the front seat, not looking up from the radio. “That, or they just ignore everything until it literally falls apart.”
Adaine raised an eyebrow, her voice dry. “Really makes you have faith in the government, doesn’t it?”
“I’m just ready to go home so we can finally chill,” Gorgug said.
A chorus of laughter filled the van, warm and easy.
Kristen leaned forward, her chin resting on the back of Adaine’s seat. “Don’t you have a date with Mary Ann this weekend?”
Gorgug’s eyes flickered to hers in the rearview mirror, and for a moment, he was silent, his hands tightening on the wheel. “Maybe…”
Fig shot up, laughing so hard she nearly dropped her bass. “What?!” she exclaimed. “You kept something that juicy from us? Not cool, dude!”
Gorgug shrugged, the tips of his ears turning darker. “I knew you’d all make fun of me.”
Kristen raised her eyebrows. “No way, dude.”
Fig grinned. “Yeah, Mary Ann’s hot! Good for you.”
Gorgug laughed under his breath, shaking his head. Kristen could see the corners of his mouth twitching, trying to hide a smile.
Fabian, in his typical dramatic flair, turned in his seat to look at Kristen with an arched brow. “Speaking of dating,” he began, stretching the words out as if savoring them, “are you and Copperlilly official yet?”
Riz, without missing a beat, corrected him. “It’s Kipperlilly.”
Kristen could feel her cheeks growing warm as Fig nudged her playfully with her foot from across the seat. “Yeah, Kristen. No more secret romance, remember?”
Kristen kicked back, gently nudging Fig’s ankle with her boot. “I dunno…” she muttered, running a hand through her messy hair. “We haven’t talked about that yet.”
Riz looked up from his notes. “I still can’t wrap my head around it, though. You and Kipperlilly?”
Fabian groaned, tossing his hands in the air in mock frustration. “I can’t believe no one told me. What the fuck!”
“Because you can’t keep your mouth shut, that’s why.” Fig interjected.
Adaine smiled softly. “I think it’s sweet,” she said, pushing a strand of pale blonde hair behind her ear as she glanced over her shoulder at Kristen.
Kristen leaned back, letting out a dramatic huff as she crossed her arms. “What about you and Oisin? I was sensing some vibes.”
Fig perked up, eyes glinting with mischief. “Ooooo, go girl!”
Adaine rolled her eyes, a faint flush creeping up her cheeks as she was put on the spot. “Oisin is just a friend. I have no interest in dating, thank you very much.”
Kristen smirked. “Come on, girlie. I’m gay, but even I can admit he’s a tall drink of water.”
Fabian nodded with exaggerated seriousness. “Totally, that is a fine man.”
That was enough to make Gorgug burst into a full-on laugh, shaking his head as he kept his eyes on the road.
Adaine groaned, though a smile tugged at her lips. “Stop objectifying him.”
The laughter in the van was still bouncing off the walls when Fabian turned, his voice cutting through the lingering chuckles. “By the way, I’m going to ask Mazey to be my girlfriend. If anyone cares.”
Kristen smirked, crossing her arms as she leaned back against the worn seat. “Wasn’t she already? What have you been waiting for?”
Fabian let out an exaggerated, wounded gasp, clutching his chest as though Kristen’s words had struck him through the heart. “Kristen Applebees,” he declared with mock betrayal, “you wound me!”
Riz leaned forward from his seat, placing a hand on Fabian’s shoulder. “Good for you, man,” he said with a straight face, giving him a little squeeze.
Fabian, still dramatically holding onto his faux offense, tossed his head back and sighed, but the grin tugging at the corners of his lips betrayed him.
“Thank you, Riz. Finally, someone who appreciates the gravity of my romantic endeavors.”
Gorgug, who’d been quiet in the driver’s seat, piped up. “Did anyone check if Mazey counted the votes for the presidency, by the way?”
The van fell into a brief silence as all eyes turned to Adaine. Without a word, she reached into her bag and pulled out her crystal, tapping at it with quick, deft fingers. “I’m on it!” she called out, eyes scanning the glow of the screen in her hands.
Kristen’s stomach twisted at the mention of the presidency. She groaned, sinking back into her seat, letting her head fall back against the cushion. The fabric felt scratchy against her neck, and she fidgeted with the hem of her shirt, trying to dispel the tension crawling under her skin.
“I can’t believe we had to miss it because of the stupid Council of Chosen,” she grumbled.
Riz didn’t even look up from his notebook. “Yeah, saving the world is such an inconvenience.”
Kristen couldn’t help but laugh at his dry sarcasm. She always found this post-world saving catharsis strange. Weeks and months of build up really took a toll on on the body and once all was said and done, and the threat was neutralized in a life or death situation, it took the mind a while to settle. It was the same every time, and no doubt, would be the same way next time.
But then Adaine let out a squeal that pierced through the van, her eyes wide as she held her crystal up for everyone to see.
“Kristen! You won!” she shouted, sounding somewhere between disbelief and excitement. She tossed the crystal over to Kristen, who barely caught it in time, fumbling with the glowing device in her lap.
Kristen’s heart raced as she scrolled through the posts on the screen, her thumb swiping faster and faster. One post after another filled her vision, all of them celebrating the same thing: Kristen Applebees, next student body president of Aguefort Adventuring Academy.
Kristen blinked, her breath catching in her throat. “Holy shit.”
The van erupted into cheers. Fabian turned around to slap Riz on the leg, Fig reached over and grabbed Kristen’s shoulder, shaking her gently as she let out an excited whoop. Gorgug tapped the steering wheel rhythmically, adding to the noise.
“You won, dude! You did it!” Fig grinned, eyes shining with pride as she ruffled Kristen’s already messy hair.
Kristen could barely process it. The words on the screen blurred as her mind raced to catch up. Her chest felt tight, like her ribs couldn’t contain the swelling feeling inside. This was real. She had done it—she’d actually won.
She handed the crystal back to Adaine, still wide-eyed. “I—holy shit,” Kristen repeated, her voice cracking slightly, but this time it was soft, quieter, like the words were too fragile to say aloud.
Fabian turned in his seat, the grin on his face stretching impossibly wide. “Madam President,” he said with a flourish, offering her a mock bow.
The van rattled and bounced as Gorgug pulled off the main road, turning onto the long, winding trail that led to Mordred Manor. The tall, old Victorian house sat in the distance, shrouded by overgrown trees, with ivy crawling up its weathered stone walls.
Gorgug brought the van to a stop at the beginning of the driveway. The engine sputtered to a halt, and the van settled with a quiet creak.
“Alright, gang,” Gorgug said, turning to look over his shoulder, “home sweet home.”
Adaine was the first to hop out, her boots hitting the gravel with a soft crunch. She immediately reached forward, pulling the seat forward to make space for Kristen and Fig to climb out after her.
Kristen stretched as she stepped onto the driveway, feeling the cool mist wash over her. It smelled like damp earth and old wood, with the faintest hint of smoke, like the manor itself had soaked up centuries of stories and refused to let them go. She let out a soft sigh, feeling the weight of the past few days start to melt from her shoulders.
Fabian leaned out the window with a smirk, adjusting his jacket as he gave them a two-fingered salute. “See you losers at school on Monday.”
Fig grinned, flipping him off with both hands, and the van exploded into laughter as Gorgug drove away. The sound of their friends' laughter faded into the distance, leaving Kristen, Fig, and Adaine behind.
Adaine shifted her jacket higher on her shoulders and started walking up the driveway, her eyes scanning the house. “Think we’ll get to enjoy a normal spring break, or do you think someone else will decide to take over the world?”
Kristen snorted, falling into step beside her. “No idea… anyone heard from your mom recently?”
Adaine gasped dramatically, swatting at Kristen. “Watch it, Applebees.”
Kristen chuckled. “You can’t go around beefing with your president!”
“You’re not officially president until senior year,” Adaine pointed out, grinning as she jabbed Kristen playfully in the side. “Until then, I can hit you all I want.”
Kristen skipped to the side, dodging Adaine’s half-hearted attempt at a punch. “That’s a dangerous game, Abernant!”
The three of them continued their walk, the gravel crunching beneath their feet, until the sprawling front of the manor came fully into view. The tall, creaky front doors were slightly ajar, as if waiting for them.
Kristen was about to make a joke about the haunted vibe of the place when she spotted something—or rather, someone—standing near the front of the house. She stopped in her tracks, her eyes narrowing to make out the figure better. A woman stood near the steps, tall and unmistakable, with large wings that shimmered in hues of red and orange, glowing faintly. Her hair, a bright fiery red, floated as if caught in an unseen breeze.
Kristen’s breath hitched in her throat, and she nudged Fig with her elbow. “Hey, Fig…”
“Huh?” Fig looked up from where she had been messing with her bass strap and followed Kristen’s gaze. The moment her eyes landed on the figure, her whole face lit up with joy.
“Ayda!!” Fig shouted, and before Kristen could say anything else, Fig took off in a sprint, her boots pounding against the gravel.
Kristen watched, a smile tugging at her lips as Fig practically launched herself into Ayda’s arms. The half-phoenix woman caught her effortlessly, spinning her around in a wide circle, her wings spreading out behind her. They both laughed, the sound filling the air with a warmth that seemed to chase away the last of the evening’s chill.
Adaine came to a stop beside Kristen, her eyes softening as she watched the reunion. “About time,” she said with a smile.
Kristen nodded. “Yeah… looks like everyone’s gonna have a great rest of the year.”
Together, they made their way up the rest of the driveway, joining Fig and Ayda at the front steps. Kristen couldn’t help but grin as she watched Fig melt in Ayda’s arms, her usual hardened, tough-girl exterior completely gone in the presence of her girlfriend. They kissed as though nothing else in the world existed to either of them but one another.
Ayda set Fig down gently, her fiery wings folding behind her. She turned to Kristen and Adaine, her eyes glowing faintly.
“Saint Kristen Applebees,” she said as formal as always. “Elven Oracle Adaine, my best friend.”
Adaine smiled, giving a slight nod. “Ayda, mistress of the Compass Points. Welcome back.”
“Yes,” Ayda replied, inclining her head. “I missed you all very much.”
Kristen couldn’t help but laugh at Ayda’s rigid formality, stepping forward to pull her into a half-hug. “We missed you too!”
Ayda seemed to soften slightly, returning the hug with a gentle, almost hesitant warmth. “You must fill me in on everything I missed in my absence,” she said, her tone serious. “Every detail.”
Fig laughed, stepping in beside her. “Where do we even start?”
Adaine pushed open the front door fully, gesturing for them all to follow her inside. The door creaked as it swung inward, revealing the dimly lit, cavernous entryway of Mordred Manor. The smell of old wood and dusty books greeted them as they stepped inside.
Kristen glanced around the familiar space, as she sighed. “And yet… I still think it’ll all sound like nothing compared to you going to the beginning of time itself.”
Ayda smiled faintly. “It was… an experience,” she said cryptically. “But I would much rather hear about your adventures.”
Kristen rolled her eyes. “Oh, you know. Just the usual. Saved the world, ran for president, no big deal.”
Adaine snickered. “Yeah, and don’t forget about the part where Kristen secretly started dating someone.”
Fig gasped dramatically, her eyes widening as she turned to Kristen. “Oh yes, the most scandalous part of it all!”
Kristen groaned, covering her face with her hands. “Stop…”
Ayda raised an eyebrow, a small, amused smile playing on her lips. “ Then I look forward to hearing every detail.”
Kristen groaned again, but this time it was accompanied by a soft laugh as they all made their way deeper into the manor
The living room of Mordred Manor was quiet except for the soft crackle of the fireplace and the occasional hum from the huge crystal mounted above it. Kristen lay sprawled across the worn couch, one arm hanging over the side, her fingers lazily flicking through channels with the remote. Her eyes glazed over as the images blurred from one screen to the next. None of it was holding her attention.
Adaine sat perched on the very edge of the couch beside her, deeply engrossed in a book. The soft rustle of pages turning was the only sound she contributed, her brow furrowing in concentration, while Kristen kept up her half-hearted channel surfing.
"So," Kristen drawled, breaking the silence, "do you think Fig and Ayda will be back for dinner? Or is that just wishful thinking at this point?"
Adaine didn’t look up from her book, but Kristen noticed a small smile twitch at the corners of her mouth. "I wouldn’t put my money on it," she said with dry amusement.
Kristen snorted. “Yeah, I thought so.”
Fig had told Sandra Lynn she was going to the Compass Points Library to help her catch up on paperwork, but Kristen knew better. Fig had probably convinced Ayda to visit the Bottomless Pit for a much-needed 'catch-up session'. Kristen could practically hear Fig’s mischievous laugh echoing through the infernal domain already.
She stretched her legs out farther, her foot brushing against the armrest, when the doorbell rang, its loud chime reverberating through the manor. Kristen lifted her head slightly, glancing toward the door, but quickly shrugged and went back to flipping channels.
“Not my problem,” she muttered under her breath.
From the kitchen, Sandra Lynn’s voice rang out. “I got it!”
Kristen heard the front door creak open, and she relaxed again, zoning out as the flickering images from the crystal continued to dance in front of her. It wasn’t until she heard the voice responding that she froze in place.
“Hello! I’m Kipperlilly Copperkettle. It’s so lovely to meet you. You must be Sandra Lynn Faeth?”
Kristen’s head whipped around so fast she toppled off the couch, landing with a loud thud on the floor. Adaine’s eyes shot up from her book, and the laugh that escaped her was loud and unrestrained.
“Seriously?” Adaine wheezed, clutching her side.
Kristen groaned, rubbing at her shoulder as she scrambled to her feet. “Oh god, why didn't she text me?” she mumbled under her breath, her pulse suddenly pounding in her ears.
She darted for the hallway, but just as she reached the door, Jawbone rushed past her, playfully shoving her back down onto the couch as he headed toward the entryway.
“Kipperlilly!” Jawbone boomed, his gravelly voice full of warmth. “You must be here for Kristen?”
Kristen tried to get up again, but she was momentarily stunned, her heart hammering in her chest as she heard Kipperlilly laugh. The sound was light, like the ring of delicate wind chimes on a breezy afternoon. Why did it always have to make Kristen’s heart skip like that?
By the time Kristen managed to stumble to the hallway, she saw Sandra Lynn standing at the door, looking from Kipperlilly, to Jawbone, and then over her shoulder at Kristen, a knowing smile on her face.
“Oh,” Sandra Lynn said, one eyebrow raised. “I see!”
Kristen’s face flushed deep red. “Damn it…” she groaned under her breath, rubbing at her still-sore shoulder from the fall.
Kipperlilly was standing just inside the threshold now, looking very small in comparison to the towering figures of Jawbone and Sandra Lynn. She was wearing shorts and a soft purple shirt that Kristen immediately recognized from one of her Instagram posts. Her long blonde hair was down today, framing her face in soft waves, and for a moment, Kristen’s mind went completely blank. She had only seen Kipperlilly wear her hair down once before, and that was during the time she had stayed over, when—
Kristen snapped herself out of it, blinking rapidly as she caught Kipperlilly’s eyes. “Uh, hey…” she said, her voice coming out much more awkward than she’d intended.
Kipperlilly smiled, her eyes bright as she walked over to Kristen, her steps light and unhurried. When she reached her, she reached out, taking Kristen’s hand in hers and giving it a gentle squeeze. Kristen felt her pulse quicken at the touch, the warmth of Kipperlilly’s hand making her feel both safe and nervous at the same time.
“Hi,” Kipperlilly said softly.
Before Kristen could say anything, Kipperlilly went up on her tiptoes and pressed a small kiss to Kristen’s cheek. The gesture was simple, but it sent a rush of warmth through Kristen’s entire body, her face flushing even deeper. It was strange, after all the months of sneaking around and keeping their relationship hidden, to suddenly have such an open and casual moment together in front of her family. Strange, but nice.
Jawbone let out a hearty laugh, slapping Kristen on the back as he stepped past them. “You two are adorable,” he rumbled.
Sandra Lynn smiled, giving Kipperlilly a warm nod. “You’re welcome to stay for dinner, if you’d like,” she offered.
Kristen’s heart leapt into her throat at the thought of Kipperlilly staying for dinner, but Kipperlilly’s smile only grew wider, her eyes sparkling. “I’d love to, thank you,” she said, as polite as always.
Kipperlilly turned toward the entryway with an appreciative look, her eyes scanning the high ceilings and the ornate, slightly weathered fixtures of Mordred Manor. Her gaze dropped to the wooden floor beneath her, and she tilted her head, her curiosity obvious.
“Your home is beautiful,” Kipperlilly said warmly. “Is the floor original?”
Jawbone puffed out his chest with a proud grin, the way he always did when someone admired his restoration efforts. “Sure is,” he boomed. “Antique oak. Been here since the place was built.”
Sandra Lynn glanced at Kristen with a knowing smile, her brow raised slightly. “She’s lovely, Kristen,” she said.
Kristen flushed, her face growing warm under the combination of Kipperlilly’s presence and her Sandra Lynn’s playful remark. “Please don’t be embarrassing,” she muttered under her breath, though the plea was more for herself than anyone else.
Kipperlilly, who had been admiring the house, whipped her head around to Kristen with mock offense, narrowing her eyes in playful annoyance. “You don’t agree?” she asked, her lips quirking up at the corners as if daring Kristen to say the wrong thing.
Kristen blinked, her words catching in her throat for a moment. “I-I—uh, of course I do!”
Jawbone’s hearty laugh echoed through the room, and Sandra Lynn grinned at the two of them, clearly enjoying the moment.
“Good,” Kipperlilly said with a satisfied nod.
Kristen groaned, feeling the heat still rising in her cheeks. “Unbelievable…” she muttered, though a smile tugged at her lips despite her mild embarrassment.
Without waiting for another round of teasing from her family, Kristen grabbed Kipperlilly’s hand and tugged her gently toward the living room. They left Sandra Lynn and Jawbone behind, their voices fading into the background as they stepped into the cozy room.
Kristen flopped down onto the couch with her usual lack of grace, her body sinking into the well-worn cushions as she pulled Kipperlilly down beside her. Kipperlilly, of course, sat much more elegantly, her legs tucking neatly beneath her as she settled in between Kristen and Adaine, who was still perched on the far side of the couch, her eyes glued to her book.
Adaine didn’t look up as they sat down, but she turned a page with the practiced precision of someone who was entirely focused. “Copperkettle,” she said simply.
Kipperlilly nodded in return. “Abernant.”
There was a pause before Adaine glanced up from her book, a small but genuine smile crossing her face. “Nice to see you,” she added.
Kipperlilly returned the smile. “You too.”
Kristen, feeling the energy in the room settle into a comfortable quiet, leaned back against the couch, stretching her arm over the back of it, just behind Kipperlilly.
Adaine flipped another page in her book, her eyes never leaving the text as she spoke. “You shouldn’t complain, Kristen,” she said, laced with amusement. “Pretty sure she just got the seal of approval.”
Kristen rolled her eyes, sinking deeper into the cushions. “Yeah, well… I guess that’s good.”
As the words left her mouth, Kipperlilly leaned into her side, her body fitting perfectly against Kristen’s. Kristen felt a gentle, almost nervous flutter in her chest as Kipperlilly tucked her legs beneath her and snuggled closer, the soft scent of lavender and vanilla drifting from her hair. Kristen’s arm, which had been resting lazily along the back of the couch, now settled comfortably around Kipperlilly’s shoulders, drawing her in closer.
The room felt quieter now, more intimate. The crackling of the fireplace mixed with the soft drone of the crystal screen created a peaceful backdrop, the kind of sound that lulled you into a sense of safety, of belonging.
Adaine, still absorbed in her book, let out a soft sigh. “Just so you know,” she said without looking up, “if you two start making out in front of me, I will hex you both. Fair warning.”
Kristen chuckled, but before she could reply, Kipperlilly beat her to it.
“Don’t worry,” Kipperlilly said, a playful edge to her voice, “I’ll smack her if she tries.”
From the other room, Jawbone’s booming voice echoed through the halls. “Atta girl!”
Kristen put a hand to her chest, feigning hurt as she glanced down at Kipperlilly. “I'm being unfairly bullied,” she said with mock indignation, though the smile playing on her lips gave her away.
Kipperlilly smiled softly, leaning her head against Kristen’s shoulder as she reached for Kristen’s arm and wrapped it fully around herself, pulling it snug against her side. “You’ll get over it,” she said.
Kristen felt her heart skip a beat at the closeness, her pulse slowing down into a peaceful rhythm as she rested her chin gently on top of Kipperlilly’s head.
She closed her eyes for a moment, breathing in the familiar scent of Kipperlilly’s hair and feeling the soft rise and fall of her breathing against her side. There was something so simple, so comforting about this. Being here, with Kipperlilly and Adaine, in this creaky old manor that somehow felt more like home than anywhere else ever had.
Dinner that evening at Mordred Manor was warm and lively. Fig and Ayda, as everyone had predicted, didn’t make it back in time to join them, likely still 'catching up' in the depths of the Bottomless Pit. But even without them, the dining room was full of laughter and conversation.
Kristen sat at the head of the long, old dining table, surrounded by her makeshift family. The overhead chandelier cast a soft golden glow, bouncing off the dark wood of the table and highlighting the simple but delicious meal that Lydia had prepared. The smell of roasted vegetables, garlic and spices filled the room.
Across the table corner from Kristen sat Kipperlilly, her cheeks slightly pink from the warmth of the room or maybe from the soft, teasing glances she’d been sharing with Kristen all evening. Beside Kipperlilly was Sandra Lynn, leaning back in her chair, relaxed and content. On the other side of the table was Jawbone, his massive frame taking up more space than any chair could properly handle. He grinned wide as he tore into a plate of food with less table manners than a feral hobgoblin, utterly unconcerned with appearances. Next to him was Adaine, book now tucked away, her posture as neat and composed as ever. And finally, at the other head of the table, Lydia in her wheelchair, smiling warmly at everyone.
Conversation flowed easily, with the clatter of forks and knives blending with the steady hum of voices.
“So, after talking to Cassandra about it,” Kristen said, picking at her plate and spearing a roasted carrot, “I think the plan is to really work on the Church and turn it into a pantheon for her and Ankarna. I mean, come on, who wouldn’t want to worship lesbian gods?” She grinned, her eyes glinting with mischief as she glanced around the table.
Jawbone let out a deep laugh, shaking his head. “Now that would give Wolfsong Revival a run for its money.”
Kristen smiled at him, feeling a surge of pride. It had been strange, losing Cassandra for that period of time, the uncertainty gnawing at her. But now that her god was back, Kristen had purpose again. The Church could become something bigger than anyone had imagined.
Sandra Lynn raised an eyebrow, her voice gentle but thoughtful. “That’s a lot to take on, Kristen. Especially with being student body president next year.”
Kristen shrugged, lifting her glass of water and taking a quick sip before answering. “Yeah, well, I’m tough. I can handle it.”
Adaine glanced over at her, her sharp elven features softening for a moment as she nodded. “You managed to get through the year without magic,” she said, thoughtfully. “I actually don’t doubt it.”
Kristen couldn’t help but smirk as she speared another piece of food with her fork, shoving it into her mouth with a bit more force than necessary. She chewed quickly, looking around the table. “I’m a strong, independent badass,” she mumbled through a mouthful of food.
Kipperlilly’s gaze shifted toward her, raising an eyebrow in mock disapproval. “At least chew before talking, Kristen,” she said.
Kristen blinked, cheeks full of food, and immediately swallowed. “Sorry,” she muttered, feeling her face grow warm under Kipperlilly’s amused gaze.
Across the table, Sandra Lynn and Jawbone exchanged a glance—one of those looks that parents give when they know something you don’t. Kristen caught it and furrowed her brow, her fork pausing halfway to her mouth.
“What?” she asked.
Sandra Lynn gave her a soft, almost too-sweet smile. “Nothing, sweetie.”
Adaine tried to stifle a laugh behind her glass of water, but the sound still slipped out, her shoulders shaking slightly with the effort.
Kristen’s eyes darted between them, suspicion brewing. “What??” she repeated, setting her fork down with a soft clink against her plate.
Adaine finally composed herself, setting her glass down and looking at Kristen with an innocent smile. “Nothing at all,” she said, the corners of her mouth still twitching with suppressed laughter.
Kristen’s eyes narrowed as she scanned the faces around the table. Even Jawbone was trying and failing to keep a straight face, his wolfish grin betraying him. Lydia, who had been quietly enjoying her meal, looked up with a smirk.
“Strong, independent, and incredibly whipped, sure,” Lydia quipped.
Kristen’s jaw dropped in mock horror as the table erupted into laughter. Even Kipperlilly, who usually kept her composure, laughed softly, eyes twinkling with amusement.
“I am not whipped,” Kristen protested, but the laughter around the table continued.
Kipperlilly, still smiling, reached for Kristen’s hand under the table, her fingers finding Kristen’s with ease. She laced their fingers together, the warmth of her touch immediately soothing Kristen’s mild embarrassment.
“I like it,” Kipperlilly whispered, soft enough that only Kristen could hear.
Kristen turned her head slightly to meet her gaze. The playfulness in Kipperlilly’s eyes had softened into something else now, something warm and affectionate. Kristen’s heart skipped a beat, and despite the teasing she felt a surge of pride wash over her. She sat up a little straighter, her chest swelling with a quiet kind of joy that had nothing to do with titles or victories.
Jawbone clinked his glass, drawing everyone’s attention back to the table. “To Kristen,” he said, his deep voice booming with pride. “Our strong, independent, slightly whipped student body president!”
The table erupted into laughter again, but this time Kristen joined in, her head thrown back as the joy bubbled up inside her.
“To Kristen!” the others echoed, raising their glasses in unison.
Kristen smiled wide, her cheeks flushed with both embarrassment and happiness. “Alright, alright,” she said, lifting her glass and clinking it against the others. “But for the record, I’m not that whipped.”
Kipperlilly leaned closer. “Maybe just a little,” she whispered.
Kristen shot her a playful glare but couldn’t suppress the grin that tugged at her lips. She leaned in, pressing a quick kiss to Kipperlilly’s temple.
“Fine,” Kristen murmured with a laugh. “Maybe a little.”
After dinner, the warmth of the meal lingered in the air as everyone slowly began to disperse. Adaine stood up from the table, stretching before giving a polite nod to everyone.
"I’m going to turn in for the night," she said. "It’s been a long couple of days."
Kristen gave her a wave as she stood up beside Kipperlilly. “Night, Adaine. See you tomorrow?”
Adaine nodded, her tired eyes flicking between them before she gave a knowing smirk. “Try not to cause any trouble,” she said pointedly before disappearing down the hallway toward the staircase.
Kristen felt her heart race just a little as she took Kipperlilly’s hand in hers and motioned toward the back door. "Wanna head out to my room?"
Before Kipperlilly could answer, Sandra Lynn's voice cut through the air. “And where do you think you’re going?”
Kristen turned, rolling her eyes with a huff. “To my room,” she replied, but there was no real edge to her voice.
Sandra Lynn raised an eyebrow, her expression hovering between playful and serious. “Uh-huh. And you know the rules—door open.”
Kristen groaned loudly, as she threw her hands up. “Come on. My room is literally outside!”
Before Sandra Lynn could respond, Jawbone walked past, carrying a laundry hamper piled high with clothes. He shot Kristen a grin, his sharp teeth visible as he chuckled. “Aww, c’mon, sweetheart. The kids just saved the world again. Give them a break.”
Sandra Lynn crossed her arms, pursing her lips as though she was considering it. Then, with a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth, she relented. “Fine,” she said, pointing a finger at Kristen. “But Kristen... I’m serious.”
Kristen laughed nervously, nodding in agreement as she tugged Kipperlilly toward the back door. “Yeah, yeah, I know,” she muttered under her breath, the heat of embarrassment rising in her cheeks.
As soon as they stepped outside, the cool evening air hit them, a refreshing contrast to the warmth inside the manor. The path leading to the old chapel stretched out in front of them, lined with tall grass that swayed gently in the breeze.
Hand in hand, they walked down the path, their steps unhurried.
“They’re all so nice,” Kipperlilly said after a moment.
Kristen snorted, shaking her head with a smile. “Nice? When they’re not picking on me, sure.”
Kipperlilly laughed softly, bumping her shoulder against Kristen’s. “It’s out of love, though. They adore you.”
Kristen glanced over at her, smiling as her heart swelled. “Yeah… it is. They like you enough, though.”
“Of course they do,” Kipperlilly said with a playful smirk. “I’m a delight.”
Kristen let out a bark of laughter, shaking her head. “You really are.”
They reached the chapel’s door, and Kristen pushed it open, revealing the modest but cozy space inside. The room had the usual worn charm—it was still Kristen’s space—but tonight, it was tidier than usual. The clutter of clothes that normally blanketed every surface was more controlled, shoes lined up in an almost orderly fashion by the door, and her bed was at least halfway made.
Kipperlilly stepped inside and looked around, taking it all in before turning back to Kristen with a raised eyebrow. “You cleaned.”
Kristen shrugged, trying to play it cool. “You said I should, you know, before you came over again.”
Kipperlilly’s smile softened as she sighed lightly, closing the distance between them. Without another word, she grabbed Kristen by the front of her shirt, pulling her down into a kiss.
Kristen’s mind blanked for a moment, her body reacting before her thoughts could catch up. Her hands found Kipperlilly’s hips, fingers pressing gently into the fabric of her soft shirt as she pulled her closer. The kiss was slow, deliberate—each movement filled with the quiet kind of passion that had been building between them for so long. The taste of Kipperlilly’s lips was familiar, yet every time felt new, as if they were learning each other all over again.
Before Kristen could fully process it, Kipperlilly was on her toes, her arms wrapping around Kristen’s neck. Kristen, instinctively knowing what to do, lifted her off the ground without breaking the kiss, Kipperlilly’s legs wrapping easily around Kristen’s waist. With their height difference—Kristen towering over her by more than a foot—this felt natural, easy.
Kipperlilly sighed into the kiss, her fingers tangling in Kristen’s hair as Kristen moved them both further into the room, her boots thudding softly against the wooden floor. The warmth of Kipperlilly’s body pressed against hers sent a surge of heat through her, and the sensation of holding her this close, feeling the rise and fall of her breath, was intoxicating.
Kristen finally pulled back, just enough to meet Kipperlilly’s eyes, her heart pounding in her chest. Kipperlilly brushed a strand of hair away from Kristen’s face, her gaze soft and full of affection. “It’s still surprising how gentle you are.”
Kristen blushed, ducking her head for a second before looking back up. “I guess I just don’t wanna mess this up, you know?”
Kipperlilly’s smile widened, and she leaned up to kiss Kristen’s cheek. “You’re not going to mess it up,” she said softly. “Not with me.”
Kipperlilly’s fingers tightened around Kristen’s shirt as she pulled her into another kiss, the movement seamless and natural, like they had done this a hundred times before. Kristen’s heart skipped as Kipperlilly deepened the kiss, the warmth of her lips flooding every inch of Kristen’s body with a heady sense of comfort and need.
Blindly, Kristen walked them both backward toward the bed, her knees knocking against the edge of it as she sat down, Kipperlilly settled into her lap without missing a beat. The kiss turned open-mouthed, more intense, their breaths mingling as the heat between them built. Kristen’s hands slipped to Kipperlilly’s waist, pulling her closer until there was no space left between them. The feeling of Kipperlilly’s body pressed against her was dizzying in the best way possible.
Minutes passed—how many, Kristen couldn’t tell—until Kipperlilly finally pulled away, her hands cupping Kristen’s face as she pressed their foreheads together. Their breaths were still coming in quick, uneven bursts, but the moment felt still, as if the world had shrunk down to just the two of them.
Kristen grinned, her heart still racing. “Hi,” she whispered.
Kipperlilly chuckled softly, her breath warm against Kristen’s lips. “Hi.”
There was a comfortable pause, and then Kipperlilly leaned in again, pressing a soft, short kiss to Kristen’s lips. When she pulled back, she was still holding Kristen’s face gently, her thumbs brushing lightly across her cheeks.
“So,” she said, “the election is over.”
Kristen hummed in agreement, her eyes half-closed as she moved in to kiss Kipperlilly again. But before she could, Kipperlilly placed a finger on her lips, stopping her. Kristen frowned playfully, trying to bite at Kipperlilly’s finger, which earned her a small squeal from Kipperlilly.
“Kristen!” Kipperlilly laughed softly, shaking her head. “I’m trying to have a serious conversation with you.”
“Okay, I’m listening,” Kristen said, though her mischievous grin didn’t fade. As if to prove the opposite, she leaned forward to press her lips against Kipperlilly’s neck, smiling as she felt Kipperlilly’s soft hum of approval.
“Are you really listening?” Kipperlilly asked with a breath, fingers tangling through Kristen’s messy hair.
“Mhm,” Kristen mumbled against her neck, placing another kiss just below her jaw.
Kipperlilly laughed again, though it was clear she was enjoying the attention. “Because I don’t think you’ve got your listening ears on, Kristen.”
“Mhm…” Kristen repeated, clearly focused on anything but the conversation at hand.
Kipperlilly sighed, though it was more amused than frustrated. With a gentle but firm push, she leaned back in Kristen’s lap, placing her hands on Kristen’s shoulders to hold her at arm’s length. Kristen blinked up at her, a small pout forming on her lips.
Kipperlilly raised an eyebrow, her lips quirking in a teasing smile. “Do you want to be my girlfriend or not?”
Kristen froze for a second, her mind short-circuiting as she processed Kipperlilly’s words. Her mouth opened, but instead of a proper response, a wide, dopey smile spread across her face, her eyes lighting up.
Kipperlilly rolled her eyes, but she was smiling too. “Is that a yes?”
Instead of answering with words, Kristen fell back onto the bed, pulling Kipperlilly down with her in one swift motion. Kipperlilly let out a laugh as she landed on top of Kristen, who immediately wrapped her arms around her in a tight hug.
“Kristen—” Kipperlilly started, still laughing, as she pulled herself up enough to look Kristen in the face. “Use your words, please.”
Kristen’s grin only widened as she finally spoke. “That’s a hell yes.”
Kipperlilly smiled down at her, her expression soft and full of affection. “Good,” she said quietly, leaning down to press a gentle kiss to Kristen’s lips. The kiss was softer than the ones before, but no less meaningful. When she pulled back, she rolled off Kristen to lay beside her, her head resting comfortably against Kristen’s chest.
Kristen let out a satisfied sigh, wrapping her arms around Kipperlilly and pressing a kiss to the top of her head.
“You really are insufferable sometimes, you know that?” Kipperlilly said teasingly yet full of warmth.
Kristen chuckled, her chest rumbling with the sound. “You like it.”
Kipperlilly didn’t hesitate. “Yeah,” she said softly, “I do.”
For a moment, they lay there in comfortable silence, the sound of their breathing the only noise in the room. Kristen closed her eyes, feeling the rise and fall of Kipperlilly’s breaths against her, the warmth of their bodies pressed together creating a cocoon of comfort she never wanted to leave.
After a while, Kipperlilly shifted slightly, reaching into her pocket and pulling out her crystal. She rolled onto her back, her head still resting against Kristen’s bicep as she unlocked the crystal and opened the camera app. Without saying a word, she held it up above them, smiling as she snapped a picture of the two of them lying together.
Kristen glanced up at the screen, watching as Kipperlilly uploaded the picture to Instagram. A few moments later, the caption appeared:
@Copperkettle_Official: my president ♥♥
Kristen’s heart swelled at the sight of it. It was so simple, so small, but it meant the world to her. She looked over at Kipperlilly, who was still focused on her crystal, a soft smile on her face.
“Do I get approval rights on that picture?” Kristen teased, nudging her playfully with her elbow.
Kipperlilly chuckled, locking her crystal and placing it on the bed beside them. “Nope. It’s already up.”
Kristen grinned, pulling Kipperlilly closer. “Good. I like it.”
Kipperlilly snuggled into her side, her head resting on Kristen’s shoulder. “You better. Because now the whole school knows you’re mine.”
Kristen’s grin widened as she kissed the top of Kipperlilly’s head again. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
As they lay there, wrapped up in each other, Kristen couldn’t help but feel like everything was finally falling into place. The world outside might be complicated and messy, but in this moment, everything felt simple. It felt right.
And that was all she could ask for.