Unwritten Chemistry

Mind over matter

Kylie's POV

As soon as Ruby leaves my room, Malia and I scramble to get dressed, her cheeks still flushed from the morning's events. We head into the common area, where Ruby is already lounging by the doorframe of her room.

- Damn. Walk of shame, Malia. - Ruby teases with a smirk.

- Shut up. - Malia retorts, though she's smiling.

I walk Malia to the door, feeling a mix of affection and amusement.

- Text you later. - I say, leaning in for a quick, sweet kiss. Malia nods, her face a delightful shade of pink.

- Bye, Malia! - Ruby calls out, waving exaggeratedly.

- Bye, Ruby. - Malia replies, her voice soft and a bit shy as she leaves. I close the door and turn back to Ruby.

- So... what happened with the speech 'Malia's innocent, it's not like that'? - Ruby asks, her tone dripping with curiosity.

I laugh a little, shaking my head.

- We just got carried away. Nothing really happened.

- Kyky, you had your hands in her shorts. - Ruby points out, raising an eyebrow.

- Okay, but that's as far as we got. Honestly, I don't think we would've gotten further, even without your dramatic entrance. - I respond with a grin.

- You think she's ready? - Ruby's tone turns more serious.

I take a deep breath, considering the question carefully.

- I don't know. We're just going to go at her pace. I want to make sure she feels comfortable and that everything is right for her.

Ruby nods, looking thoughtful.

- That's probably the best approach.

Ruby and I both fall into a quiet moment, the kind that fills a space with unspoken understanding. I lean against the kitchen counter, watching her play with her phone while I mentally run through our plans for the day.

- So, - Ruby says, breaking the silence. - what's on your agenda after class?

I shrug, trying to look nonchalant but failing to hide my excitement.

- Nothing much. Just planning to hit the gym and then maybe catch up on some readings. And you?

- I have a few meetings and then work on my latest project. But you know I'm always up for some study breaks. - Ruby replies with a grin.

I nod, feeling a twinge of guilt for not being able to spend more time with her today.

- Hey, if you want, we could grab dinner together later. It's been a while since we had one of our epic food adventures.

Ruby's eyes light up.

- That sounds great. I'll make sure to save my appetite for something incredible. And don't worry, I'll be your personal taste tester.

We both laugh, and the atmosphere lightens. I feel a sense of relief. Despite the complications with Peder and the confusing emotions with Malia, it's comforting to have Ruby's unwavering support and our easy camaraderie.

- Thanks, Rube. - I say sincerely. - For being here, and for everything.

Ruby gives me a playful nudge.

- Anytime, Ky. Just remember, if you need me to crash any more of your potentially scandalous mornings, I'm always available.

- I'll keep that in mind. - I chuckle and shake my head.