Prophecy

Chapter 33: Connection

*Grace's POV*

As I closed the door behind me, Raziel was next to me in his dog form; we headed to the elevator to go downstairs to Aubrey's apartment. It didn't take us long, and we ran into a few people on the way. One group had children who begged to pet Raz. He was overjoyed and always seemed eager to make every child happy; it was the cutest thing.

Right as I reached my best friend's door and was about to knock on it, it swung open. Aubrey stood there, fully dressed and seemingly ready, carrying her purse in one hand and another bag in the other. She had a grin on her face and threw her arms around my body, hugging me tightly.

"How did you know to open the door at the same time that I arrived?" I asked as she parted from our embrace.

Aubrey looked to Raziel, answering, "Oh, he told me."

"I'll be honest, I am not yet used to you being able to hear him as Xavia, and I do," I replied honestly.

My friend laughed and said, "Me too, girl. But it is awesome!"

I nodded in agreement.

She's not wrong.

Aubrey and I walked together with Raziel trotting beside us, his fur shining under the bright morning sun. The fresh air filled my lungs, and I felt a surge of energy. Today was going to be a good and important day, too; I could feel it. As we headed towards the dog park, Aubrey and I chatted about everything and nothing. Our many easy conversations made me feel at ease.

After a few blocks, my friend asked, smiling, "Ready for some fun?"

"Absolutely," I replied with a grin.

Out of nowhere, Aubrey started singing a silly song, "Grace and Xavia, sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G!"

I laughed, shaking my head. "Oh, come on, now. What are we, ten years old?"

"First comes love..." Aubrey said and waited.

Why is she waiting?

Raziel chimed in, speaking in my mind, "Then comes marriage..."

Oh.

Right.

Of course, she'd teach him that song.

"Then comes a little Gravia in a baby carriage!" My friend finished and attempted to combine our names as children, and I just about lost it.

They were enjoying the moment, and my cheeks burned with a blush. Aubrey laughed harder at my reaction, and I couldn't help but join in with my friends' abundant happiness. Their playful teasing was infectious, making the walk feel even shorter. When we passed a food truck, the enticing smell of street food made our stomachs growl.

"How about a snack?" Aubrey suggested.

"Sounds perfect," I agreed.

We ordered our food and found a bench to sit on. Aubrey had some tacos, Raziel got four hot dogs, which he devoured in seconds, and I enjoyed a delicious sandwich. I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt; I had been spending so long with Xavia and had not thought about my best friend.

As we ate, I decided to bite the bullet and sincerely apologize to her, "Aubrey, I'm sorry I've been so busy with Xavia. It's just hard to stay away from her."

My friend waved her hand dismissively, "I understand, Grace. I just miss hanging out with you, but I'll never come in between you two, you know? You are both quite literally made for each other."