Page 21 of Riftborne
“Youknowthat it’s not the same. It’s still the middle of the afternoon, so it won’t even be crowded–and you owe me a drink, Fia.”
It had been years since I’d accompanied Osta to her favorite haunt. Five at least. I was shocked she even asked me. Her boldness was really standing out today, almost like she knew something was about to change. Guilt resurfaced in the back of my head, and I hoped she wasn’t reading the situation for exactly what it was. One of the reasons I came today was to give her a perfect final memory of me.
“Osta, you know it’s not a good idea,” I murmured, shifting on my feet.
“Fia, you’ll never get over your fears if you continue to give into them every time. You’ll have me. And we can sit on the patio. It’s usually empty, and it’s private. Come on, I know everyone that works there. There’s nothing to be worried about.”
I wracked my brain for any other valid excuse to not go, or at least, one that would make sense to her, but I fell flat. If this is what she really wanted, and it was our last day together, perhaps I could try. For her. I let out a loud sigh and looked down to see Osta smiling triumphantly.
“This way!” She commanded with a cheer, now walking with a revived energy. I groaned.
I followed with a healthy dose of reluctance. The walk was short-lived, and I was grateful. The overflowing bags at my hips had become impossible to carry. My arms were practically screaming in revolt.
Osta reached the entrance and pulled the door open, blockingit with her foot as she ushered me to go inside. I saw the floral sign as I passed her.
Talia’s Elixir Lounge.
“Shun? Is that you I see working the bar today?” Osta called out with a grin.
“Always good to see you, Osta!” Shun responded without looking our way, seemingly absorbed in the creation of one of their renowned concoctions.
“Hey Shun,” I said, and his eyes shot up to meet mine. I couldn’t believe he was still working here after all this time.
“Fia, is that you?” He asked with wide eyes.
“I finally got her to come!” Osta squealed, spinning around to look at me. “See, Fia? It’s totally dead in here. Just like I told you.”
I couldn’t help the blush that tore across my face.
“Hey now, Osta. Come join us tonight and see howdeadit is.” He clicked his tongue but smiled playfully.
Osta giggled, and flung her bags onto the counter, “Shh, don’t say that. She might leave.”
I rolled my eyes and joined her at the counter.
“I haven’t seen you since that night we all went to that traveling show I can’t remember the name of. Damn, it must have been, what, four or five years ago? Kieran was heartbroken for weeks when you rejected him, Fia.” There was a teasing to Shun’s words, and I was able to brush it off with a small laugh.
There had been nothing particularly wrong with Kieran. In fact, he had been quite charming. The night in question, many women had tried to gain his attention, but he had been dead set on trying to go home with me. At least I didn’t have to feel bad after gently turning him down. He’d have plenty of shoulders to cry on.
My past encounters with both men and women had left me disenchanted, to say the least. All too often, I found myself dismissed as a passing novelty after a night spent together. That part of my life had been over for a long time. I’d made my peace with celibacy.
Besides, I never had any interest in getting involved with one of Osta’s acquaintances. I wouldn’t want to risk her social standing. She could intermingle with the commoners and the upper class alike.
Most people found her delightful and endearing, despite her Riftborne status. I’m sure the Nobility even fell victim to her charm during her hours of dressing them for galas, solstices and balls.
Osta was the assistant to a renowned seamstress in Luminaria. She hoped to grow under Thearna’s influence and become her prodigy, but it seemed unlikely. Osta was too talented, too visionary, and that meant she was a threat. Thearna would make sure that Osta stayed safely tucked under her control.
My sympathies extended particularly to the unfortunate ladies compelled to parade around in Thearna's antiquated designs. She wouldn’t know style if it stabbed her in the eye with a sewing needle. But legacy mattered above all else in Luminaria. And Thearna had plenty of it.
"Any space for us on the patio today?" Osta chirped, eyeing windows overlooking a garden outside. I lingered at the counter, managing a balancing act with the groceries.
“There is always room for you.” Shun gestured towards the back. “It’s all yours.”
“Thank you Shun! You know you’re my favorite!” Osta gave him a sly wink, flipping her honey golden hair over her shoulder.
Making my way to a table and finally putting my arms out of their misery, I plopped down onto a padded leather chair and lowered the bags to the ground.
Stone-tiled floors, mahogany tables, and comfy loungers set the scene. I took in the soft lighting that hung overhead and the potted plants that filled the space. I breathed in the scent of florals that drifted around me, allowing my body to slump into a timid state of relaxation.
