Ordo Noctis

Chapter 22

The next morning, the two of us woke up around seven o'clock. I was still lost in Mars's embrace. I pulled back gently and we both sat up in bed.

"Good morning," he told me eventually.

"'Morning," I said quietly.

A few more minutes passed before he said, "So... are we gonna talk about it?"

I feigned innocence. "About what?"

"Well... what we did last night... I wouldn't exactly call it 'friendly'."

I sighed and finally decided to face the truth.

"I like you," I blurted. "As a lot more than friends. And I know it's stupid, and immature, and..." I looked down. "Sorry."

"It's okay," he told me, taking my hand. "I like you too."

I felt like I was flying. I wanted to kiss him right then and there. And then he said the one word I knew was coming.

"But."

I was crashing back down to Earth.

"I don't think we should date yet. You're the only person I know that's my age, and same with you. We should explore our lives as normal high school kids before we commit to each other; I'm worried that we're only attracted to each other because it's our only option."
I hated how much of a point he had made. "You're right. Okay."

"Let's talk again, say... at Christmas break?"

I didn't know how I was going to wait that long. My heart fluttered at just the thought of him. "Yeah, that sounds good."

Mars squeezed my hand, then let go. And it felt so finished, so... final - that I had to climb out of bed and leave the room. I got ready by myself, and didn't see him again until breakfast.

That night, I fell asleep in my own bed, although it did take a long time. I was ready to start a new life; away from the drama of corrupt organizations and sacrifices. It was time to move on.

It was time to follow the light.

THE END

Ok, ok. Go ahead and yell at me. 

I know you all hate me rn lol but let's just take a moment and acknowledge how deep and inspiring of a journey this story was.

Aaaand now go to the next chapter bc we're all impatient for them to get together ;)