Page 53 of Kimiko and the Accidental Proposal
“I know.” She turned into him, placing her hand on his chest. “But I haven’t researched courting behavior, and books rarely go into nuances. If I’m going to take the lead, you’ll still have to guide me.”
“Ask anything.” He smiled faintly. “I’m not an unfathomable mystery, unlike females.”
Was he teasing? “Even Amaranthine have trouble understanding girls?”
“Persons of your gender defy explanation. If you are uncomfortable asking me something, choose other confidants. One of the teachers, or I will gladly introduce you to my stepmother. Even though she will likely relay embarrassing tales of my childhood.”
“She’s human.”
“Yes, and she’s been part of the Starmark clan for many years. Her insights would surely inform you, although in her case, my father did the courting.”
“Their betrothalwasn’tan accident.”
He smiled crookedly. “Everyone has seen the televised special detailing the two great loves of Harmonious Starmark.”
“Well, yes,” she conceded. “But there’s usually a big difference between reality and publicity.”
“There is more to the story than the people of this city remember. But theirs is not my story to tell.” He lined up his words with great delicacy. “I can welcome your interest in me. If you have questions, ask them. If you want something, take it. Like tending with a trusted reaver, my answer will always beyes.”
His tone and posture didn’t match. He meant more than he was saying. And she thought she understood. “Are you asking me to ask for things?”
“Please.”
“What do you need?” Kimiko signaled that she was listening, that she was willing. “What do youwant?”
Eloquence elbowed Edge.
Apparently the Kith’s suggestions were unwanted. In a way, it was too bad she couldn’t hear Edge or Flay. Then she wouldn’t be left guessing. All she could do was wait for Eloquence to find words … or the courage to speak them.
He leaned down, once again resting his forehead against hers. Eyes firmly shut, he mumbled, “I do want a taste.”
So she pressed her lips against his. Initiation accomplished.
Which seemed to be enough to fulfill the courting requirement, because Eloquence took charge, cupping Kimiko’s cheek and slipping the tip of his tongue into her mouth. She parted her lips. He pressed soft kisses along her bottom lip, followed by a cautious swipe. Then a nibble and lick. She gasped for air, and he retreated.
“This is promising. And pleasant.” He radiated excitement. “When the time comes, I know what to do.”
She wasnotgoing to ask what he meant.
Eloquence nuzzled her hair and murmured, “Your blood is stirring as well. That’s good.”
Kimiko was pretty sure she nodded. And she was almost sure he was going to kiss her again, except he didn’t.
Instead he asked, “Kimiko, have you told your parents?”
“N-no.”
The restraint was back. “Dalliance without commitment would be an insult.”
“I’m sorry.” Yesterday had been so hectic, but that was a lame excuse. In truth, she hadn’t known how to broach the subject. “I meant no insult.”
“I would no more trifle with you than you would with me.” Eloquence kissed her forehead. “We have my father’s approval. Your father should have the opportunity to approve or oppose a match of this nature.”
Kimiko suggested, “Come home with me? We can explain together.”
“Gladly. Would tomorrow be acceptable?”
They quickly settled the details, and Kimiko made to leave. But Eloquence didn’t release her. He didn’t say anything, didn’t start anything. But the silence begged her to ask for something, to start again.
