Yearning, Learning - [Catradora Drabbles] [Returns 09/29/23]

15 - Sleepover

One thing had led to the other, and now the pair were staying at Perfuma's for the night. Scorpia's present, too, making it a double date, even if the latter of the two was a bit oblivious about it. Perfuma sets out another tray of tea for everyone, though it's a different flavour now. There's the scent of chamomile, lemon, and mint wafting through the air, paired up with the smell of more pastries still waiting their time at the oven. 

"So," Scorpia says, smiling wide. "How about we start planning a trip? It's almost summer soon!"

The one who seemed the most oblivious out of all turns out to be the one responsible for having set up the double date. Perfuma smiles at her and brings out a computer from the bookshelf nearby. She sets it down on the table and tells everyone to gather closer, smile turning softer when Scorpia sits next to her and lets her rest against her while she turns the device on.

"Do you prefer the mountains or the beach?" Perfuma asks, facing Catra first before looking at Adora. "Feel free to choose whatever's more comfortable with you. Scorpia and I are fine with both!" She smiles at them, bringing forth some encouragement as she waits for their reply.

Adora doesn't need to stare at Catra to know she's already tense. Their stay at the underwater hotel had turned out a success, but her girlfriend needed plenty of time and support to overcome part of her fears. She didn't want to impose on her again, and even less knowing this was an outing with other people. Having more company around would be fun, but not when one of them was still in the process of battling her fears.

"What do you think?" she asks, words directed at Catra. She meets face-to-face with her and smiles. Then, she reaches out for her hand and holds it close. "I'm good with both, too."

Catra's ears droop and a frown shows up on her face. Her tail swooshes around and her hand lets go of Adora's when she says, "...The mountains."

Nobody present questions further over her decision and instead nod along to it. Adora faces Perfuma and shares a look with her, giving a silent agreement for the final decision to be made.

Even if she'd chosen the mountains, Adora was aware of which place Perfuma was referring to, and she knew it was best to pick out a place that wouldn't be too overcome by lakes or ponds. Even humidity made Catra uneasy, but while she adjusted, it was best to take things step-by-step rather than throwing her headfirst into it. 

• • •

It marks past midnight by the time the trip is settled out. All the pastries and tea are gone, and the computer's been left to charge while Scorpia goes to set up a movie for everyone to watch. Perfuma, on the other hand, has some savoury snacks readied by the kitchen, an offer she'd made and one that had been taken by everyone in agreement to them needing something salty to contrast with the tangy taste of the tea and the sweetness of the pastries.

By the time the movie's already set up, though, Catra's already fallen asleep. She rests her head on Adora's lap and mutters unintelligible words under her breath. It continues that way until Perfuma and Scorpia sit down nearby. From there on, Adora can make out some of the words, hearing her girlfriend still debating in her mind if she should've chosen the beach instead.

The other pair present smile and hold back giggles at the scenario. Adora, meanwhile, sets a hand down on Catra's scalp and passes her fingers through her hair, bringing her back into a deep sleep.

"Want me to take her to the guest bedroom?" Scorpia asks, still smiling at the sight.

Adora nods and returns her smile, letting go of Catra when she's sure she won't stir in her sleep again.