Fight With Fire

48

"Are you sure you've got it?" Finn asks worriedly.

"No but if you keep hanging onto me like a set of training wheels then I'll never know." I reply in a frustrated tone. I'm not frustrated at Finn but it's easier than recognizing what's actually bothering me.

"Hey, it's not everyday your little girl learns how to walk." Finn coos as he loosens his grip, but only slightly.

"I'm older than you." I snap back but my heart isn't in it.

"I said little, not young." Replies Finn with a small smirk. "I'm going to let go now, okay?" Finn asks trying to sound lighthearted but I can hear the worry.

"You didn't say young but you're treating me like I am." I sway a little on my feet when Finn lets go but manage to stay standing. "Plus, I need to walk in their on my own."

Then without a moment to let myself think, I push through the doors and out into the field. I was never really sure why placement was held outside instead of in the theater where there was lots of room. Of course I wasn't complaining as I needed to be out in the open for my plan to work.

"I really really hate to ask but if I need a boost at some point..." I trail off hoping Finn will get what I'm saying without me having to finish my sentence.

"It would be my honour to lend you some energy if the need arises." Finn says with a mock bow.

"Haha now does it actually look like I'm walking?" I ask nervously. I tug on the scarf around my neck that works with my hair to temporarily cover my iae.

"I don't think anyone would assume you're flying although it is a little awkward since I actually know what you're doing. You like a puppet!" Finn concludes in excitement.

"And you were calling me immature?" I ask sarcastically as I start to 'walk' to my seat.

"You need to pay attention to my word choice. I said 'little'. Absolutely no reference to you being young or immature even though you're certainly one of them." Finn continues to tease but I can tell he is distracted.

"I can't be young, I'm older than you." I retort easily trying not to be intimidated by the stage looming ahead.

"Exactly. Now be quiet, it's starting." Finn reaches for my hand and gives it a quick squeeze. I feel a small rush of energy and watch as Finn's iae recedes slightly down his arm.

"I told you not to do that unless I need it." I whisper while contemplating whether to drop his hand. I don't want to but if he keeps feeding me energy then I'm going to be forced to.

"You needed it." Finn replies a small squeeze but luckily he doesn't pass any more energy on.

"Thank you." I whisper so quietly I wonder if he actually heard me.

"Welcome to this years placement ceremony." Carly's voice is magnified by invisible speakers. "It takes a lot of bravery to take that final step away from your youth years and into adulthood. We appreciate the responsibility everyone is accepting as they fall into their new rolls in society." Carly continues with lots of cliches and 'words of wisdom' but I am too nervous to pay attention.

"You're going to get Amy too right?" I whisper nervously into Finn's ear.

"Of course, just calm down. I'll get everyone, just worry about saving your energy." Finn encourages placing a light kiss on my forehead.

"I'm doing the right thing, right? Maybe we should leave Amy here. Maybe only I should go."

"You're not going anywhere without me." Finn insists sternly still whispering. "She'll love to come anyway and you'll need everyone else to help. Just stop worrying. You're saving them."