The Righteous Path

Bar Talk

Lilith woke after four short hours of sleep, her body sore and her mouth uncomfortably dry. With a real twinge of hatred, she reached for her phone and turned off the shrill alarm. Every fiber of her wanted to sleep but she knew she couldn't. She had been looking forward to this day for weeks but now that it was here, she didn't want to face it. Letting out a long, deep sigh, she flopped onto her back. A body next to her shifted and every muscle in her body stiffened. Quickly looking over, she saw Air sleeping peacefully, his hair messed from sleep. I guess it wasn't a dream Lilith thought, her cheeks warming. Careful not to wake him, she slithered out of the bed and tiptoed to the dresser. Opening the top draws, she found a few articles of clothing that she figured would fit well enough. Getting dressed, she rushed to the door, closing it gently behind her. She moved down the stairs and into the living room, pausing at the entrance.

"Good morning Lilith. You look like last night was an enjoyable one." Papa sat in a chair in the living room, a smile on his face. He wore his black silk suit, his black hair slicked back, his stark white eye contrasting to the black about it. Lilith's heart fluttered at the sight of him, the sound of his voice. "Do they know you're leaving?" His smile faded a bit as he asked. Lilith sighed, walking to the loveseat.

"No." she answered, casting her eyes down. She was returning to Oregon for the rest of her summer break, then back to Ithaca to finish her studies.

"Well, I wanted to see you off. There is a car out front that will take you to the airport. Your things have already been checked at the airport. There has also been a carry on made for you, in case you want to change and freshen up." Papa smiled and they stood. Lilith watched his movements like she would never see him again. The way his gloved fingers brushed the arm rests of the chair. How he gripped the bottom hem of his jacket, adjusting it over his slim frame. She sighed, her eyes trailing his body, his grace always something for her to behold. Papa walked to the door, Lilith a step behind him.

"Thank you for everything. I will be in contact if anything happens." She said, her voice thin with her fatigue.

"Of course." He replied and opened the door. Lilith smiled up at him, her eyes bright beneath her lashes. Papa paused, her gaze bewitching him. The moment was quick, Lilith turning and walking to the awaiting car. Sighing, Papa closed the door and walked up the stairs to wake the others. He knew this wouldn't go over well, but he found it difficult to deny Lilith the things she asked for. When she came to him asking to return home, he felt a jolt of sorrow in her leaving. It took him intentional effort to remind himself of her position, or lack of for now. That she may not want to be with him or the others forever. Frowning, he walked to each door, knocking loudly. He was displeased he had to inform them that Lilith was gone, already preparing for their protests but his hands were tied. "Rise and shine! The day isn't getting any younger!" Papa called in a forced, upbeat voice. With a chorus of grumbles, the men awoke.

Slowly, the band trickled into the dining room down the hall from the living room. Air was the last to come down.

"Where is Lilith?" Air asked, expecting to see her in the dining room. His attempt to sound casual had failed, his voice instead pressed and clipped.

"I don't know. I figured she was still with you." Alpha said in a bitter tone. Omega frowned, grabbing a roll from the table.

"What?" Water exclaimed, clearly confused. "You were so aloof. I figured you were somehow able to withstand her temptation."

"Water, shut up. Where is Lilith?" Air was getting annoyed, his voice louder. Papa cleared his throat, setting his silverware down.

"Lilith has returned to America for the time being." Papa said, sipping his orange juice. The room was silent, all eyes falling on him.