WOULD YOU RESCUE ME?

44.Past Shadows, Present Light

The lively hum of conversation and laughter filled the air as the dinner came to an end. Plates sat untouched, their once elaborate presentations reduced to crumbs and stains. The rich, heady scent of food lingered in the room, mingling with the subtle aroma of wine and the faint piney freshness of the towering Christmas tree in the corner. It was late, well past midnight, but the O'Kelly household buzzed with energy as though the night had just begun.

Vanessa leaned back slightly in her chair, her honey-brown eyes observing the joyful chaos around her. Cousins sprawled on the couches, recounting stories from years past with animated gestures and loud bursts of laughter. Margaret and Elena huddled by the fireplace, deep in conversation, their smiles soft yet genuine. Thomas was with Franco, discussing on so many different topics, their glasses with a nice blend of whiskey clinking occasionally.

Astra, as she had been all evening, was at Vanessa's side. Her green eyes sparkled with delight as she leaned closer to listen to Vanessa's parents, occasionally chiming in with her playful wit. Every so often, her hand brushed Vanessa's arm or lower back, a casual, grounding gesture that spoke volumes of her affection.

When someone announced that it was officially Christmas, the room erupted into cheers and applause. A few of the younger cousins began exchanging presents, their faces lighting up with excitement as brightly wrapped gifts were handed around. Others clustered near the tree, their voices growing softer as the mood shifted to something more reflective, sharing fond memories and nostalgic tales.

Vanessa felt Astra's fingers lightly lace with hers, pulling her attention back to the girl beside her. "You okay?" Astra asked softly, her voice just loud enough to cut through the background noise.

Vanessa nodded, her lips curving into a small smile. "Just... taking it all in," she replied.

Astra tilted her head, studying Vanessa with a mix of curiosity and amusement. "What's on your mind, Van?" she pressed, her tone gentle but teasing.

Vanessa hesitated for a moment before leaning closer. "I was wondering if there's somewhere we could talk," she said, her voice quieter now.

Astra's grin widened, the corners of her lips curling in a way that immediately sent Vanessa's pulse racing. The teasing glint in her green eyes was unmistakable. "Talk?" Astra repeated, her tone playful as she leaned in, her breath brushing Vanessa's ear. "Are you sure that's all you want to do?"

Vanessa rolled her eyes but couldn't stop the faint blush that crept up her neck. "Yes, just talk," she clarified firmly, though her voice softened. "Preferably somewhere private, where no one else can overhear us."

Astra's grin didn't falter. If anything, it deepened, a flicker of mischief dancing in her expression. She reached out, taking Vanessa's hand in hers. "I know just the place," she said smoothly. "Follow me."

Vanessa allowed herself to be led through the bustling room, Astra weaving effortlessly through the clusters of family members. Her grip on Vanessa's hand was firm, reassuring, as though she'd been waiting for this moment all evening.

The hallway grew quieter as they moved away from the dining room. Astra glanced back at Vanessa, her green eyes glinting under the dim light. When they reached a door near the bathroom, Astra paused, opening it with an exaggerated flourish.

Vanessa stepped inside and glanced around. The room was cozy compared to the grandeur of the rest of the house, a private office with polished wooden floors, a dark oak desk, and bookshelves lining the walls. A plush rug covered the floor, and a single lamp cast a warm, golden glow over the space.

As soon as Astra closed the door behind her, she turned, her hand reaching for Vanessa's belt. With a swift but gentle tug, she pulled her girlfriend closer, pressing her firmly against the door. Her other hand slid up to Vanessa's shoulder, her touch light but commanding.