[The surge in Alina's body that Ianthe could feel through the physical contact, that intense want, was enough to make her breath hitch and her own heart thud heavy in her chest. It was strong enough that if Alina had kissed her right then, the people around definitely would've gotten another show. Ianthe could only hold herself back so much and with that, she would've been conquered in an instant.

A slow, controlled breath out, and Ianthe wet her lips, her arm tightening a fraction about Alina. Maybe Ianthe finally figured it out, how to phrase things the right way. It couldn't be absolutes for Alina when it came to battling her self-loathing, her learned deprecation - no 'was' or 'are', but 'more than'. It seemed that maybe, just maybe, she could accept being a single step above instead of being placed on the pedestal so many had her on. Ianthe didn't have her on a pedestal but that was only because she preferred her women to roll in the much with her. Most of the time. This was something Ianthe could work with. She finally found a foothold that made her feel like it could be better. It would be better.]

I mean it, Sunshine. Anytime. I might have to excuse myself depending on timing, but I will be there. I might even be dramatic about it.