The Untold Story of Texas and Lappland (Arknights)

Stage Chaos

Lulled by the sweet music, Texas almost forgot Lappland was with her. She kept her attention on the crowd of screaming fans as best she could but found herself humming along to the beat all the same. And when darkness descended on the stadium like a blown out candle, she grinned to herself. Slowly, quiet notes began to thrum with the melody of piano as fingers slid across white and black keys.

"Texas? What's happening?" Lappland asked. In the shadows, Texas picked out her white furred companion like a ghost in the night. Her eyes held the mystery of a wandering spirit, floating amidst a shining face. The moon peeked over the roof, beaming at the occupants below.

"You'll see in a moment. Look up there."

She pointed at the top bleachers. One pattern she knew all too well, happening with the same clockwork trail that cane with rehearsals and hours of practice. But this is the first time for several people here, yet it happens without fail. Sora never got enough credit for amazing things she made happen. They may seem unimportant to most people, but Texas saw the phone lights dancing in the air as little miracles. Close family and friends came together to celebrate often enough, but rarely was the same true for strangers.

"Wow! It's amazing." Lappland murmured. "Does this happen all the time?" Her voice was surprisingly louder than expected, yet still a whisper compared to the other voices singing along.

Texas tilted her head, noting the small junction of space between them. Lappland had managed to shuffle closer in the period of time the two had been standing sentry. The steps had been so hesitant, filled with trepidation, yet they managed to close the distance so there was a sole foot between them. Within reaching distance, yet not touching without permission.

"Usually Sora manages at least one slow track before intermission." Texas explained. There was something she wanted to do. There would be no chickening out. "You can come closer if you'd like. This sort of song . . . it's supposed to be cherished." Lyrics of love and a connection deeper than one could explain filled the air like the aroma of the sweetest candy.

"Texas . . ." Lappland trailed off. For once the white wolf appeared shy, her ears ducking down and tail wrapping around her leg. A more emotional person might term this look as adorable. Texas found it strangely endearing, a far cry from the menacing smile and wicked laugh that habitually haunted her nightmares.

"Come here, I don't bite." Texas tried to joke. It fell unmistakably flat. She rubbed the back of her neck, laughing awkwardly.

Lappland thin lipped smile grew sly. She winked at Texas, bowing slightly without losing eye contact. "But I might."

"Oh, stop it. Just come here." She grabbed Lappland, yanking her forward. The white wolf stumbled against her, head ending up pressed into her chest. The heat in her face rose at a steady interval. At least Lappland couldn't see how flustered she was.

"Texas. This is nice." The words were muffled by fabric and her chest. She had to strain her ears to hear them.

Her flush deepened. Stupid Lappland. "Come on, just get up here." She felt silly maneuvering Lappland so she was leaning up against her side. This kind of ridiculous action was akin to someone dragging around a body pillow. Except this body pillow is more than capable of moving herself, she just wants to annoy me. And yet here she was, entertaining Lappland's shenanigans. Who really was the bigger idiot here?

"You're very touchy today." Lappland commented, lips curling.

Texas growled. "Don't say a word about this to anyone."

"Yes Alpha."

She nearly choked on the saliva she was swallowing down. Ice seeped into her veins, strangling the blood flow. "Don't call me alpha."