Renrael

The Negotiating Hearts

Ren sat there, frozen on the bed, listening for the bite of the whispers from the bathroom. Maybe she was typing? Or maybe just speaking so hushed he couldn't hear.

Trisandrah had fled there to talk to someone. Talking to them now. After he'd just admitted he wanted more than her casual affection. He wanted to be something with her, not a coincidence, not a pleasant convenience. It was foolish. He'd known it was likely to end it all, but the not knowing was driving him crazy.

He scrubbed a hand through his hair and swung his legs over the bed. His eyes found his clothes, tossed across the room in a heap. Well, he'd known this wasn't likely to go the way he wanted. Couldn't even say the word 'dating' around her without her getting hedgey and flighty. He'd thought she might go into a panic or maybe cold rage.

Ren looked up at the sound of the bathroom door opening. She looked nervous. Not particularly happy.

And thus began their negotiation. He would always think of it that way. It had felt oddly businesslike to hammer out rules and expectations of your lover. He wanted to be exclusive. She would need time to herself. No moving in together, agreed. And, and, and.

The deal was sealed with a laughing kiss he stole from her lips. Fine. It was all fine.