Wiggle!

"We also should talk to Elodie ever, but - "

Grin and kiss.

"We're good."

For now, it's Christmas with family.

Her favorite time of year.

Anathema's fine not really heading into the rest of the school until classes tomorrow...

There's nothing that they really need, anyway.

Yeah. Ellie's in here, after all.

Best Anathema.

Also in this room!

She is.

Wiggle kiss!

(They can go back to their dorm late, again - she doesn't want this cozy moment with family to really end - and, well. They'll deal with Monday when it happens.)

A plan Ellie is on board with.

Good they're in agreement.

Monday, unfortunately, must happen, obnoxious whispers and rumors and all.

Bleh.

Anathema very firmly ignores everyone, giving curious people the cold shoulder.

After classes: "Do you wanna go talk to Elodie now?"

"Probably best not to put it off much longer."

She takes Ellie's hand, squeezing. "Okay."

And off to find Elodie.

Here she is.

"Ah, come to fall tearfully back into my arms? Or are we to fight a duel for her love?" It's not entirely clear which one of them she's addressing.

She laughs a bit. "If I see Skeeter again I'll challenge her to a duel. But, nah, we - wanted to catch up with you." Grin. "And I wanted to thank you for helping us get together." She squeezes Ellie's hand. "Though if you want some time with Ellie..." she teases.

"That would be one avenue for attacking the rumors."

"Or feeding them."

"Much the same thing, in the final analysis."

"Give them so much to talk about they implode."

She laughs.

"I am pleased for the both of you. Congratulations."

Heee. "Thanks!" Awkward smile. "I do still wanna be friends of course - I like you." She grins at Ellie. "And now maybe I can directly bring Ellie into our magic talks."

"What, so she's the one you've been talking music magic with?"