Persona BLEACHED 4: Chapter 25

Chapter 25: Katching Up
November 5, 2031
The Borough of Islington in Central London. Morning.
Kat was inside a medical office, seated on a table. The office itself was littered with all sorts of memorabilia related to Arsenal FC, sensible given the building's close proximity to the Emirates Stadium.
She was speaking with a male doctor, with dark skin, a bald head and goatee, wearing glasses. His I.D. badge identified him as Dr. Joseph Musa. "Everything appears normal. The wound seems to have healed, for the most part. Any pain to report?"
"Specifically related to the stab, or anywhere else? Cuz I've got this crink in my neck from all this studying..." Kat replied.
"Ms. Kit, I'm a surgeon, not a chiropractor. You know what I meant."
"Alright, fair enough. Honestly, I'm doing okay. Spot where I got poked isn't really hurting now. It's only when I stretch that it starts aching a little."
"It has been close to a month since you were attacked. Any remaining pain should subside in the coming weeks. You're a very lucky girl, Ms. Kit. A few inches higher, and he would've punctured your stomach."
"Guess I wouldn't have to worry about the Freshman Fifteen in that case, huh?"
Joseph sighed. "My nephew exaggerates about a great many things. Your cavalier attitude is clearly not one of them."
"Aww, Kicks talks about me? That's enough to make a girl blush. What's he say?"
"Nothing that is readily untrue. Although I will say that compared to your last visit, there were substantially less quips about you being probed."
"I'm mature. Aren't you proud of me?"
Out in the waiting room, Carrie sat reading a magazine. The office door opened, and Kat stepped out. "Sorry to keep you waiting, my queen."
"I'd gladly wait for a thousand years, knowing you were at the end of it." Carrie replied.
"Ah...wow. I actually don't know how to respond to that one." Kat started blushing.
"Ms. Kit has a perfectly clean bill of health. I would only advise against any excessive physical exertion for the next two weeks, just in case." Joseph advised.
"Lovely to hear. Thank you for your help, Dr. Musa." Carrie said.
"I couldn't very well look at Sahir in the eyes if I didn't do everything I could for a friend of his. If anything else is amiss, don't hesitate to come in."
"Much appreciated, Doc. Say hey to Kicks next time you chat with him." Kat thanked.
The two girls left the office for the streets of Islington. "We're lucky that the home team doesn't play until tomorrow, otherwise it would be a sea of red out here." Carrie said.
"True that. So what's our plan gonna be for today?" Kat asked.
"Well, we're in new territory by ourselves. Natalia's in Liverpool with Kenneth, Tabitha went to visit her mother in Wolverhampton..." Carrie sighed. "I wish she would let us have a minute with her. She's been so distant ever since the attack last month."
"Probably still feels guilty that I took the hit for her. I mean, the house is fixed back up, and I'm feeling right as rain. I wasn't about to let her get stabbed. Wish she'd just let me say so..."
"It can't be helped, I suppose. Hopefully a weekend with her mother can help soothe her mind."
"Fingers crossed. But now that I think about it, this is the first time since we've been in London that it's just been the two of us, isn't it? The city's our oyster for the whole weekend. Just you...and me...all alone...with no one else..."
"Kitten."
"Nyeh?"
"You don't have to skirt around issues of being alone with me, you know."
"I-I know, it's just...we haven't really had any real alone time in a while. I might've forgotten *how* it's like when it's just me and you."
"There's nothing to be nervous about. There isn't an instruction book when it comes to intimacy."
"Yeah, I know, but--hold up, w-w-what was that last word?! Care, isn't that a little...uh...forward for you?"
Carrie let out a giggle. "Oh, Kitten. Surely you must know that isn't a purely risqué term. It might be the implication, but what I mean is more along the lines of emotional intimacy. Something like...our moonlit dance. A moment so personal and private only the two of us can understand it."
"Oh...okay. Sounds easy enough." Kat blinked.
"Teehee. You're blushing again, Kitten."
"Your face is pretty beet-red, too, y'know. Alright, guess it's a weekend of...intimacy. What should we do first?"
"Doesn't have to be anything too complicated. I'm sure there's a park nearby. Why not a simple stroll?"
"I can work with that. Let's get ourselves lost."
---
"AAAAAAH!" A human-like scream sounded out.
Carrie gave a blank stare to its source.
An adjacent sign gave an explanation, reading: "Clissold Park, Bellowing Goat Enclosure". The girls were in front of the fenced-in space, home to five highly-vocal farm animals.
"AAAAAAH!"
"How...charming." Carrie uttered.
"I think they're adorable." Kat said.
One of the goats sniffed the rear end of another, before letting out a scream. The other goat then kicked it in the face.
"That one reminds me of Keebie." Kat said.
"In...what way?" Carrie asked.
"Muscley and gray and looking like he's just done with everything."
"I see." Carrie overheard one of the goats burping. "Perhaps we should move along to somewhere with a little more...atmosphere."
"Yeah, okay, I hear ya. Wanna see if there's a spot open by the pond?"
"Sounds delightful."
"AAAAAAH!"
The two girls made their way to a bench situated in front of a pond, with a small fountain in the middle and containing several varieties of ducks and geese. 
Carrie let out a sigh. "That's much better. Peaceful silence. And look."
Wading around the pond was a pair of black-and-white cranes.
"Remind you of anything?"
"Kinda. Maybe if it was dark out, and one of 'em had a shade of royal purple to 'em." Kat replied.
"Very, very curious."
Carrie paused to take in the surroundings. "Kitten?"
"Yeah?"
"Are you certain that your wound is alright?"
"Oh yeah, totally. I mean I can't do any big cat stretches without some aches, but it's like Doc said, I should be okay in a couple weeks."
"Okay. I'm only double-checking." Carrie paused again. "I was terrified, you know. Terrified that I was about to lose someone else I loved to horrible violence."
"I'm sorry, Care. I couldn't let Tabby take that hit. Especially not after what she's gone through. I didn't mean to scare you."
"Oh, I'm not upset that you protected Tabitha from harm. That brilliant heart of yours is part of why I love you so. I only wish there was an option that didn't end with you needing stitches."
"Trust me, I'm not glad I got stabbed, either. But it was a split-second thing where if I didn't move fast enough, Tabby might not be here right now. I couldn't handle losing a friend."
"Please don't take this as me being critical of you. Self-preservation at the cost of someone else isn't the Kit So-yin that I know. All I'm saying is...that I was scared that I was going to lose my soulmate."
"Care..."
Carrie wrapped her arms around Kat's, putting her feet up on the bench. "All is to say that...I'm happy that you're still here."
"(Oh my God oh my God oh my God! How am I gonna follow that up?! C'mon, think...what's she into that we can do around here? Computers, rocks, shopping...the beach? We're not that far from the south coast, I don't think. I'll just put it out there and see what she thinks.)" Kat thought. "How about we find ourselves a beach?"
"Hm? A beach?"
"Yeah, I mean, you've gotta be missing it, right? You're used to looking out a window and seeing the ocean, after all. Why don't we, I dunno, hop on a train and go have ourselves a day?"
"Kitten...that is a wonderful idea!"
"It is? Wow. Go me."
"In fact, I know exactly where we can go." Carrie got up and tugged on Kat's arm.
"Whoa, hold up! Ya haven't even told me where we're going yet!"
"I'll fill you in on the walk home. No time to waste, come now."
With that insistence, the girls started for home. "There's a seaside resort on the south coast named Brighton. It's about an hour by train. I think it would be perfect for a weekend holiday, don't you?" Carrie asked.
"A beach trip doesn't sound too bad. I take it you've had this idea in mind for a bit." Kat guessed.
"I've done my research. On top of the beach, there's an assortment of unique shops and a lively nightlife. Some websites I've visited called it the happiest place to live in the United Kingdom. Along with being the most welcoming to the LGBTQ community."
"Well now you're just sprinkling sugar on top. A weekend trip sounds like it'd be perfect."
"My thoughts exactly! I can get started with buying train tickets and booking a hotel for the night. I hope you remembered to pack your cutest swimsuit, my love. First order of business is a beach date~!" Carrie pulled Kat along.
"Easy, girl, easy--!"
---
The seaside resort of Brighton, one half of the combined city of Brighton and Hove. A unique ocean borough within driving distance of the busy capital, Brighton was a popular spot for Londoners looking for a place to get away.
"Was a bit chilly when we rolled in, but we should be good for a dip now." Kat sat on the bed in the girls' hotel room. "You almost done in there?"
Carrie emerged from the bathroom, her hair tied back with a black ribbon, wearing a black two-piece bathing suit underneath a lavender veil. She posed by the doorway. "Well? Do I look suited for a day in the sun?"
Kat started purring.
"Oh, you're too sweet, Kitten. Go on and get changed. Unless..." Carrie blushed. "You were waiting for me to help you?"
"N-n-n-nope, nope, I'm good on that front. I'll just be a couple minutes..." Kat ducked inside the bathroom.
"Suit yourself." Carrie teased.
Kat emerged shortly after in a black-and-pink tank top and bottom. "I know, not really all that cute, but it's the first thing I grabbed out of my drawer."
"It's cute so long as you're the one wearing it, Kitten." Carrie replied.
"R-right. You ready to head out?"
"Let me make sure I've got everything from the suitcase." Carrie turned around to check.
Through her veil, Kat could see Carrie's back, and the visible scarring that remained.
"Okay, everything's in order. Let's not keep the sunshine waiting." Carrie grabbed a wide-brimmed hat along with her handbag.
"Righties. This is gonna be super." Kat replied. "(If she's not gonna bring it up, I won't either.)"
"What should our plans be? Dinner and a nightclub tonight, a shopping venture tomorrow?"
"Whatever you're feeling up to, Care Bear. It's gonna be great so long as it's me and you."
"Ohhh." Carrie grabbed Kat's arm and nuzzled up to her. "Now I'm the one who gets to be flustered. You've earned yourself a beachside cuddle. Let's be off."
Carrie pulled her along again. "Wait up, Care, we shouldn't walk too fast in--yikes!" "(Welp, she's in a lively mood today. Mission accomplished, I guess?)"
---
Now at the Brighton shoreline, Kat sat on a beach towel bearing the logo of The Golden Wei (a 'rare find', according to her father). She looked out towards the ocean.
Carrie stood ankle-deep in the water, gazing outward.
"(What is she thinking? The beach is a special place for her. It's no Monte Carlo, sure, but she was still amped up to come here.)" Kat thought.
"....." Carrie opened her eyes, and smiled warmly. "The salty air, the pleasant breeze, the sea washing over my feet...oh, how I've missed this feeling. Mama, Papa...it was a sight like this, wasn't it? When you first laid eyes on one another...when you exchanged your eternal vows to each other. Looking out into the endless blue like this makes me feel that much closer to you both..."
She walked back after a few minutes. "How's the water?" Kat asked.
"It's a little bit chilly. It's to be expected for this time of year." Carrie sat down next to her. "Everything else feels perfect. The breeze, the weather...the company."
"Meep--" Kat was alerted.
Carrie let out an oddly somber sigh. "I'm sorry..."
"Wha...sorry about what?"
"I'm being too forward, aren't I? I see how you react every time I say something flirty like that."
"Oh, no no no, don't say you're sorry for that. I tease everyone else. You shouldn't feel sorry for that."
"You never tease me."
"Well, cuz...um..."
"Tease me, Kitten. Fair is fair."
"Um..."
"It comes so easily with everyone else. Why not for me?"
"It's cuz you don't give me any openings! You're so regal and proper, I don't have anything to say!"
"Sigh...maybe I really should stop with the flirtation. I shouldn't be making you uncomfortable when you don't want to return in kind."
"Now wait just a minute! You don't get to say those things with that swoonie voice of yours and then turn around and drop it!"
"'Swoonie'?"
"I've spent about half my life getting under people's skin cuz I think they're all beautiful, and that's my way of letting 'em know it! But you, Care? I don't need to let you know it, cuz you already should! It ought to be illegal how much love I've got for you! You're brilliant, you're kind, and I somehow lucked out in getting to hear you being all flirty with me! So, you wanna hear *exactly* what I've been holding back?"
"K-Kitten, that really isn't necessary..."
"I've gotten so lost in those eyes of yours that I needed Google Maps to find my way out. I daydream about resting my head in your hair. You've got 10/10 legs to go with 12/10 feet. If I had the option of being in a room with 1000 gerbils and getting to hug you for five seconds, I'd call animal control in a heartbeat. Ask me 100 times, and I'd take you every single time. And the reason I've kept all this to myself up until now is because my feelings with you go way past just words. I love you, Caroline Hilda Blackthorne. Take an X-ray of me, and you'll find those words tattooed on my heart. Well? Was that enough teasing for you?"
Carrie's face was now red enough that it could be mistaken for a sunburn. "Ah, I-I-I just had this strange sensation come over me. Do excuse me, I have this sudden urge to get us something to drink." She got up and, in an almost robotic fashion, walked away.
"Um, okay. I'll have--and she's gone." Kat uttered. "I either just made sure she's gonna stay with me forever or scared her off for good. Pretty sure it's the first one? I hope?"
A few minutes later, Carrie returned with a pair of fruity drinks, handing Kat one. "Here you are."
"Merci. No beach trip is complete without fruity umbrella drinks. So, uh...are you okay?" Kat asked.
"I've never felt better. Though I was recently diagnosed with something dire. Namely in the last five minutes."
"Did a doctor call you or something? What's the problem?"
"I've just been diagnosed as a revenant."
"A what now? Isn't that a zombie? Why would you be called a zombie?"
"Because my heart has exploded."
"Ah. I see."
"I'm afraid you're going to be arrested for murder soon. As the nefarious culprit of this horrible crime."
"Welp, best give me a life sentence now. Cuz I'm guilty as fuuuuuuck."
The two started giggling. Carrie put her hands on Kat's face. "You did get one thing wrong, however."
"Okay, fair enough. Your legs are an 11/10."
"I actually meant that *I'm* the lucky one."
Carrie retracted her hands. "....."
"Care?"
"Kitten...I know that I love you. Deeply."
"And I know that I love you. I pretty much just spelled out how much. What's this about?"
"You and I both know that we want to spend our lives together. I love each and every second that I get to spend with you. But..."
"There's a 'but'?" Kat took Carrie's hand. "C'mon, you're acting weird. What's on your mind, Care?"
Carrie looked into the eyes of the one she loved. "I know that the two of us have only just started our path of adulthood. But for you and I...what is the next step? Beyond the trips and the dates and the exchanging of tender looks. How else can I show you just how much I love you?"
"How else can..." Kat's eyes widened. "Caaaaaaare. Where are you going with this?"
"Oh...oh, please don't misunderstand! I don't mean..." Carrie shook her head. "I mean...I...I don't even know what I mean."
"Care..."
"It must be the salty air getting to me. Please forget I said anything." Carrie turned away.
"What...I don't get it. What are you getting at?"
"No, no, I mustn't...I shouldn't speak on things I'm not even sure of."
"Oh, come on, don't shut me out like that! You know you can talk to me about anything, right?"
"....."
"Care...fine. If that's how you wanna play it." Kat relented. "(What just happened? How'd we go from being all lovey-dovey to not even looking at me?)"
"(This feeling in my chest...why am I acting like this? Is it love, or...is it more than that?)" Carrie thought.
---
Later in the day, Kat was alone in the hotel room, talking on the phone. "...and after that, things just got really awkward. We came back, and then she left to go shopping."
"Was she angry?" Natalia was sitting at a café table.
"No, she wasn't mad or anything like that. That's what I'm so confused about. Everything was going great, and then she got really weird. Talking about the 'next step' we should be taking."
"What do you think she meant by that?"
"Well I don't think she meant we should get married, like, tomorrow. She told me upfront that she wants us to get school finished before we even entertain the idea. And we already live together, so the only thing I can think of is...oh. Ohhhhh. Oh that really is it, isn't it?"
"What are you thinking, Kitty Kat?"
"...no, but...she told me that intimacy doesn't have to mean..."
"Huh...oh, ohhhhh. What?! Oh, no no no no, she can't be thinking..."
"That's the only thing I can think of."
"Well...what do you think about it? If Care were to say it herself that she, y'know."
"I..." Kat went silent. "It's something we'd have to talk about sometime, yeah. But...I'm scared that it might be too soon for that. When my mom gave me 'The Talk', she told me how my aunt hooked up with this guy she was really into, but it ended up flaming out right after cuz she thought it was more serious than it actually was."
"But you and Care are as serious as any couple I've seen."
"Yeah, but...what if Care's in a different spot than I am? Last time that happened to me, it ended with Sparky trying to take over the world. I don't wanna do anything that would mess things up between me and Care. What's that mean for me, Natty?"
"I'm probably not the best girl to ask, but...maybe you should have a talk with Care. If she's in one place and you're in another, you should figure that out before it gets more awkward. She'll understand, I know she will."
"I hope you're right, Natty. I really do."
The call ended shortly after. "....." Kat curled up in bed. "What's the next step to you, Care...?"
---
Elsewhere in the city, Carrie sat on a bench, also on the phone. "I don't know what's wrong with me, Auntie."
"Tell me how you're feeling, amethyst. Be honest." Carrie's aunt, Melinda, who physically resembled her with darker hair, was organizing her clothing store.
"It was just...Kitten said all these lovely things about me, and I felt this huge rush of emotion, and I wanted to...oh, I can't say it."
"Why not? Think it'd be too improper? Sweetie, it's perfectly alright. Tell your Aunt Melly what's bothering you."
"Okay...this wave of emotion just overcame me, and at that moment I wanted...I just wanted *her*. I wanted to give her everything that I am. I told her I wanted to take the next step in our relationship, but...I don't even know what that means. Oh, Auntie, have I made a mistake? I didn't mean to come across as dirty, I...I don't know what I was thinking."
Melinda started laughing. "Oh, my God. You really are my sister's daughter. She was a basket case the first time she was romantic with your father. 'Oh, Melly, I feel so terribly dirty!' Fanning her face and everything."
"So, then...you don't think I'm terrible for having these thoughts?"
"Sweetie, you're not terrible for having romantic thoughts about your girlfriend. It's called being in love. Feeling that way about her is a good thing."
"But what if I came across the wrong way? What if...what if I've alienated her because I was too forward?"
"Oh, Carrie. Have you heard the jokes that girl makes at the dinner table? I don't think you making a slightly risqué suggestion is gonna do anything to freak her out."
"She makes those kinds of quips, true, but you haven't seen her when it's just the two of us. I'm afraid I may have overstepped. How do I de-escalate this?"
"Okay, amethyst. I can tell how much this is troubling you. I think you should talk this over with Ms. Kat. Clear up any misunderstandings. Wherever it goes after that is up to you. But it has to be something the both of you decide on. Imposing something one of you might not be ready for won't lead anywhere good. Be responsible."
"Be responsible..."
"You two are brilliant together. This is just a little bump in the road, not a tumble off a cliffside. I'll leave it for you to work out, I've got to get back to work."
"Okay, fingers crossed that this works. Talk to you soon, Auntie Melly. Love you."
"Love you, amethyst. Good luck."
Carrie ended the call. She noticed that she'd gotten a message from a contact labeled "Kitten 🖤". 
"*Hey*"
Simple. But probably the best Kat could muster without probing too much. Carrie thought of how to respond in kind.
"*Hi, Kitten.*"
The conversation ensued from there.
"*Are you mad at me?*" Kat asked.
"*No. I'm not. Are you mad at me?*" Carrie replied.
"*Of course not*" "*I just wanna know why you got all quiet*"
"*I'm sorry. I didn't mean to cause any strain. It was a spur of the moment thing.*"
"*Can we talk*" "*Over dinner*" "*Just you and me*"
"*Of course. I'll be back in a little while. We can stay in, if you don't mind?*"
"*Sure*" "*I don't mind*" "*I just want to see you*"
"*I know. I'm sorry about this. I'll see you soon.*"
"*Safe trip back*" "*I love you*"
"*I love you, too. 💜*"
"*🖤🖤🖤🖤*"
Carrie put her phone away. She looked at the ring on her finger--the black cat, symbol of her love. 
"My soulmate..." she said with a smile.
Back at the hotel, Kat sat on the bed, a black dress laying out next to her. She looked at her purple ring. "Where do we go from here, Care...?"
She put the dress on, and looked in the mirror as she straightened her hair out. "Okay...all good."
The door opened. "Kitten? Are you in here?" Carrie asked.
"Hey, I'm getting dressed. I'll be out there in a bit."
"Okay. Let me get changed, too. I'll let you know when I'm done."
"Alright..."
There was an awkward silence for a few minutes. 
"Okay..." Carrie uttered.
Kat opened the door. Carrie sat on the bed, wearing a black dress with a purple sash around her waist. 
"(Guess we're doing this.)" Kat thought.
"(Guess we're doing this.)" Carrie echoed in her mind.
"Hey." Kat greeted.
"Hey." Carrie replied.
"You look gorgeous."
"Same to you." Carrie patted the spot next to her. "Take a seat. We've got a lot to discuss."
Kat wordlessly complied, and sat on the bed next to Carrie.
"...sorry!" Both said in unison. "What are you sorry about?" They repeated.
"Um...you first." Kat said.
"I know that what I said may have implied something...the truth is--"
"I know that isn't what you meant. I mean, you've been talking so much about emotional intimacy that--"
"That's the thing, Kitten. For that brief moment, I think it *was* what I meant."
"...oh."
"I hadn't experienced that kind of feeling before, but after you gave me all those compliments, something just...took me over. This emotion came over me, and all I wanted was to take you in my arms and give you everything I was. For that one moment, my love became something else. Every inch of my self was screaming out for you, and..."
"....." Kat's eyes were wide.
"...you must think I'm crazy, don't you? Letting my primal urges overtake me like that."
"I don't think you're crazy, Care. It was just way out of character, is all. You're always so prim and ladylike."
"I'm human. I'm going to have those kinds of desires. But, Kitten...how do you feel about it? Is it something we should...discuss a bit further?"
"Oh, boy. This kinda question, huh? Well..." Kat sighed. "I know I joke a lot about R-rated topics. Mostly to get under Keebie's skin. But thinking about it like, actually happening? I..."
"I knew it. I've made you uncomfortable. I never should've--"
"Care, please. I need to get this off of my chest. There's so much I wanna do with you. Every single one of life's big milestones, I wanna do them with you right next to me. God, I'm absolutely crazy over you. You remember what you told me about getting married one day?"
"Yes, of course. I want to wait until this college adventure is over. The first step toward a new beginning. Our focus now should be on ensuring we have everything we need to guarantee it's a brilliant one."
"Exactly. We should be enjoying ourselves and each other. There's a lot that we still need to learn about. So what I'm trying to say is, Care...I'm not ready to make that leap you're talking about."
"I'm glad you're being honest. You're right. We're too young to be thinking about it now. I'm okay with just cuddles for the time being."
"Really?"
"Really."
"So say you get that feeling again. I don't wanna be the kind of person that can't give you what you..." Kat stopped.
"Kitten?"
"Care...what do you think 'the next step' means? For us? When we were talking earlier, it sounded to me like you wanted more from me. We're already living together, marriage is off the table for now, and so's what we just talked about. So what's left after that? Is 'the next step' something I can't give you? Care, am...am I..."
"Why...why are you..."
Kat was starting to tear up. "Is there gonna be a point where...where I'm not gonna be good enough to be with you?"
"What--no, no! Of course not!" Carrie tried wiping away Kat's tears. "Oh, my Kitten, I'm so sorry. That's not what I meant at all. You've always been good enough, and you always will be!"
"Can you really say that for sure? I'm...I'm so bad at keeping people around. I move things along too quick with Sparky, and then he turns around and tries to take over the world. I'm terrified of the same thing happening with you. You're beautiful, you're smart, you can do anything you wanna do. I'm a pickpocket that got into the Academy cuz I sat in front of a computer screen with a controller. You could have anyone in the world. I'm just a lonely nerd who had to change schools a bunch of times cuz I kept getting into fights. How can someone like me ever be right for you?"
"Kitten, please don't say that, you're gonna make me cry..." Carrie's poise began to break.
"If...if you ever decided that...I wasn't good enough for you, then I...I wouldn't blame you, but...I couldn't...I wouldn't be able to keep going...I'd just fall apart right there...it'd be too much..."
"STOP IT!"
"...!"
Carrie also began to tear up. "Oh, what have I done? That one thought has caused all this heartache! I never meant to put that thought in your mind, I really didn't! Of course you'll always be good enough for me. The things you did before we ever met don't matter to me. This...this right here..." Carrie poked above Kat's heart. "This is so good, everyone knows that it's so good. I promise you, nothing would ever make me leave you behind. Because...I know how horrible it is to be left behind."
"Care..."
"Everything I loved was taken away on that horrible day. For years after, I wondered why I survived and they didn't. My parents were going to change the world! Why did I have to stay here with all the guilt? Even after I first met you all...part of me just wanted to die. I wanted to go be with the people I loved. But after I got to know Natalia, and you and everyone, I finally understood why I was still here. I threw myself in front of that explosion not because I wanted to die, but because I wanted Natalia to live. Even when Mama came to..."
Carrie couldn't continue on. Now it was Kat's turn to wipe her eyes. The two looked directly at each other. 
"Please believe me, Kitten. I would never abandon you so heartlessly, over something so unimportant. I'm so, so sorry that I made you feel that way. I'm the one that should be afraid you'll walk away."
"Never. I wouldn't even think about something so stupid. I've been hurt too many times to ever consider doing that to you. The only one who should be scared is me."
Kat fell back on the bed. "I can't do it, Care. I'm not the one that'll make you happy. I've never deserved it. How could I ever think that I did..."
Carrie fell back and took hold of her. "Please, please just stop. This kind of self-doubt isn't like you at all. I promise you, I didn't mean any harm by what I asked. It's just...part of being an adult, I suppose. But I told you before that intimacy doesn't have to mean a physical act. It can be two people expressing everything they love about each other. You said your piece before. Now it's my turn."
Carrie comforted Kat as she spoke. "You have the most stunningly beautiful eyes I've ever seen. Your silver tongue never fails to make me laugh. Your unbelievably kind heart allows you to connect with people from all walks of life, and your dedication to the ones you care about is second to none. The way that you engage with children makes me certain that, should we ever be blessed with a little one of our own, they'll be loved and cared-for in a way they could never imagine."
"And..." She continued. "...you are extremely huggable as a cat. But I much prefer you as the warm and loveable girl you are now. That warmth is going to make you an exceptional teacher one day. You can do anything you set your mind to do, no matter how daunting, because you don't have it in you to lose. Look at me."
Kat, eyes still watery, turned around and looked at Carrie, who took her hand so that their respective rings touched.
"I love you, Kit So-yin. Now, forever and always. I will never force you to do something that makes you uncomfortable. So long as we're both happy...that's all that matters to me."
Kat buried her head in Carrie's chest as the latter consoled her. "I'm so sorry I made you cry, my love. I didn't mean to soil this little trip."
"*sniff*...ugh...I think I know...one way to salvage things." Kat replied.
---
The sun had set. With people spending their nights elsewhere, the beach was empty, the only noise being the movements of the waves. The moon and the stars were glistening in the skies above.
Kat and Carrie held hands as the water reached up to their ankles. 
"I was thinking we'd go to a nightclub, or a fancy restaurant. But I think this is more...us." Kat said.
"The moon, and the stars, and the water giving us a delicate kiss. What better way to spend a mini-vacation?" Carrie replied.
"Well, shall we, My Queen?"
"Why, of course, My Queen. For as long as time will allow."
The two came together, and just as they had two years before, in a lake amongst swirling blossoms, slowly began their dance, under the gaze of the moon.
"I love you, Care."
"I love you, my Kitten."
That night, the loving pair shared a gaze, a dance, and a single, passionate kiss.
---
November 6, 2031
"Mmm..." Carrie woke up in the hotel bed. "Mmm, Kitten...?" 
"Yoo-hoo."
She looked up. Kat, already dressed, stood at the foot of the bed, holding a bouquet of purple flowers. "Morning, gemstone. Got these shipped in special from Prof's Ma."
"Oh, Kitten, you shouldn't have...oh, and they're lilacs. You remembered."
"Course I did. I've committed every one of your faves to memory." Kat poked her head, winking.
"Ah, wait a minute..." Carrie's tired brain started to kick in. "You didn't really get these flown in from Japan, did you?"
"Nah, I'm just teasing. Found a shop a couple blocks away."
"How'd you get out without me noticing?"
"Easy. Cat-like reflexes, remember? I'd say you needed the beauty sleep, but let's be real. Can't improve on perfection."
"Oh, you. Honestly I should be the one giving you a gift after yesterday."
"Shhh. We're not gonna go over that. It's a new day, and my girl deserves something nice. Nothing else to it."
"If you say so. Before we tackle today, there is one thing I want to clarify."
"Care, I know what you're gonna ask, and I still think we're too young to think about--"
"I understand that. I wasn't going to ask that. What I wanted to know for certain..."
Carrie grasped Kat's hand. "Would you like to exchange these...for a more formal pair?"
"Formal--Care. What--are you popping the question here?! Now?! But, I thought you..."
"My feelings haven't changed. I want to spend every waking moment with you by my side. But I truly believe that there's more we should be focusing on right now. What I'm asking is how you truly feel about that."
"....." Kat thought of her response. "I want us to be together forever, Care. But you're right. There's things we have to do before we can think about that. So as much as I want to...I can wait. For as long as I need to."
"Okay. I'm glad to hear it. Good things come to those who wait."
"Right. But now that we're asking...there's something I wanna know, too."
"Sure thing. What is it?"
"Uhhh..." Kat turned red. "Do you really think...I'm gonna be a good teacher? And maybe...even a good mom?"
"Heehee. Of course I do. Anyone who's watched you with Shizuka these last few years can see that. You have the perfect personality and background to connect with children who need a guiding voice. I'm sure Professor Kubo agrees. She wouldn't think of you as her protégé otherwise. And if the time comes when the universe deems us worthy...maybe you can guide our own little Shizuka." Carrie also took on a rosy shade. "That's what I think, anyway."
"Nyeeeeh...I'm gonna diiiiie..." Kat swooned.
"Not before we do some shopping, love. Give me some time to get ready. I wasn't in the right mindset yesterday to buy anything. I passed by a lovely handbag store, and they had one on display that suits you wonderfully..."
"Nyeeeeh..."
---
"Oh. My God. This. Is. The CUTEST." Kat held a backpack styled after a black cat.
"You do have your style." Carrie giggled.
Kat gasped. "You know what we can do? You can carry me around in this, it'd be *incredible*."
"Like a little toy poodle in my purse? Wouldn't that be a bit on-the-nose for a 'rich girl'?"
"Aw c'mon, Tabs does it all the time with her kitty. Then you could take me wherever and everyone on the street would be all 'OMG what a cute widdle meow-meow, can I scratch behind her ears?'"
"Well if that's all you want I could just oblige you right now." Carrie started scratching Kat's ears.
"Aw, come on, that's only for when I'm a--oh, oh, that's it, right there..."
"Are...are you trying to raise your leg up to scratch?"
"N-no. I'm just doing some morning stretches." Kat grabbed her ankle and held her leg up.
"Bit of an odd time to do it, but it's good to keep a healthy routine."
"Nyeh...."
Carrie turned her attention to a display of folded winter wear. "It's getting to be the season. My, this one feels so fluffy. Almost like...hm?"
She picked up a red turtleneck sweater. "Kitten, come look at this."
"Hm? Looks like a cute sweater. Hold up, that logo..." 
Kat looked at the tag on the sweater's arm. It bore a familiar logo, a gold "VD" surrounded by the words "Comfortabel Dragen". "Now where oh where have we seen this before?"
"There's a few others here with the same logo. Excuse me, miss?" 
"Yes, did you need something?" one worker approached.
"We were just curious about these clothes. The writing looked familiar." Kat said.
"Ah right, we just started carrying those. A blonde girl with a Dutch accent comes in and drops some off every so often. They sell pretty good. I've honestly been eyeing one of these hoodies, myself. They're so fluffy!"
"Well I'll be. She's already playing entrepreneur. That is so *adorable*."
"The sweet mademoiselle who makes these is our roommate. We weren't expecting to see her work here." Carrie added.
"What a funny turn that is! You must know her handiwork by sight if that's the case." the employee said.
"Oh, she's responsible for half of our wardrobes. What's one more?" Kat replied.
"Especially if it helps her directly. She's gifted us so many clothes, it's easy to feel sometimes like we're taking advantage. I'm rather loving this sweater, myself." Carrie said.
The girls each purchased a sweater, with Kat also buying the backpack, and left the store. "Natty's gonna freak when she sees us with her clothes. Probably gonna get all flustered." Kat said.
"Amazing that she's kept this a secret since we got here. Once upon a time she couldn't look people in the eye. Now she's out expanding the family business." Carrie added.
"Now I'm wondering if there's any other spots around the country she's paid a visit to. Where the heck does she find the time to do it?"
"She must do it while we're in class and she isn't. It wouldn't surprise me if there's a store or two in Liverpool carrying her wares. We'll have to ask when she gets home."
"And now that I'm getting a good look..." Kat held up her purchase, a gray turtleneck with a pink outline of a bear. "This kinda looks like one of her pal Layla's sketches, doesn't it?"
"Hmm...yes, you're right. She's attending art school in Brussels, last I heard."
"I hope Natty got her permission for this."
"I couldn't imagine that she didn't. She's not the kind of person to take advantage like that. Especially after working so hard to build Layla's confidence. I'm sure everything was by the book."
"Yeah, I'm thinking the same. Feels so weird that she wouldn't mention any of this to us. We share everything."
"I'm actually glad that she's going off on her own and being independent. That's something the old Natty couldn't have done. I want her to lean on us for support, but if she wants to take her family business to new heights, there's plenty of work she'll need to put in by herself."
"Yeah, you're right. Leadership's about finding that happy medium between asking for help and making decisions on your own. Maybe it's just me remembering how she used to be. How close she came to doing something awful. Now here she is selling her brand."
"'Goood, I love my Natty!'" Carrie mimicked. "Close enough?"
"'Oh come now, Caroline, you're being quite the tease.'" Kat reciprocated.
The girls walked away, giggling--and, as always, hand-in-hand.
---
Later, back in London, Natalia returned home, her bag in one hand and her cat in the other. "I'm hoooome~!"
"Howdy-doo, Natty-poo." Kat chimed.
"Hiya, lovebirds! Did you have a good--huh?"
Kat and Carrie were sitting on the couch, each wearing one of the sweaters they bought. "What's the matter, Hoods? CiCi take your tongue?"
"We bought these sweaters this morning. They're so warm and cuddly. And they were in this lovely little shop over in Hove. Do you know about it?" Carrie teased.
"...d'oh, you got me." Natalia let the cat down. "Okay, yeah, I've been getting some shipments in from back home and dropping them off at little stores here and there. I wanted to get things going early, have happy customers before really getting into the management side of things."
"We aren't judging you, love. We were just surprised to find them on sale anywhere but Bruges."
"And this one I'm wearing was drawn by Layla, right?" Kat asked.
"Mmhmm. I asked her if she wanted to have some of her designs on my clothes. Pretty soon we got to talking and now when we're done with school, we're thinking of going into business together. Having an awesome designer like her would be a huge boost for me." Natalia confirmed.
"Jeez, Hoods, you're really thinking way ahead here. How come you didn't say anything?"
"I didn't want to speak up until I knew the experiment was working. I've got a couple of stores here in London carrying my clothes, plus two in Liverpool and the one down in Brighton."
"What are the returns looking like? The store we went too seemed pretty optimistic." Carrie asked.
"Honestly, better than I could've hoped! I'm gonna start making them in the free room we've got now that Tabby's moved back in with her dad. Mama and Papa are gonna send as much of their back stock as they can afford to, so I'm not overworking myself between school and sewing. I really wanna build the brand up, so after I graduate I'm not left scrambling to get a customer base. I'm starting with a few stores now, but once I'm in a rhythm, I'm gonna see if some bigger retailers want to work with me."
"We're so proud of the effort you're putting in, Natty. Try not to overexert yourself and give yourself burnout." Carrie cautioned.
"I'm gonna be careful, don't worry. It's why I'm only doing a few smaller stores now. But, y'know..." Natalia turned red. "You really didn't have to buy my merch just to make a point. A quick pic would've done the same thing."
"We bought these sweaters cuz they're cute. And cuz we're supporting our best friend and her dreams for the future. Ain't that right, Care?" Kat replied.
"Absolutely. Your work is always so delightful, and we want to help you out in any way we can." Carrie affirmed.
"Aww, thanks, you two. I love you guys *so* much! I'm gonna make dinner extra yummy tonight!" Natalia exclaimed.
A couple hours later, the girls were seated around the table, eating. "Okay, so how was your little trip? I heard that things got a little...tense." Natalia asked.
"We worked everything out. I think we needed something like this where we could just get everything out there. Make sure we were on the same page." Kat replied.
"It was difficult. Some tears were shed. But no long journey is without its tribulations. Ultimately it's going to make us stronger." Carrie added.
"Sorry we've gotta keep it tight-lipped, Hoods."
"Fair's fair after I kept something secret from you guys. And you deserve to have your moments with each other. I'd never try to stick my nose in between you two." Natalia assured. "But...if I could ask a little favor..."
"Name it."
"Well, going off what I was talking about before, I'm trying to build up an audience here in England. And it's kinda hard to do that without an online presence. You two are way better at the technical stuff than me, so..."
"You want help setting up your socials? I can do that."
"Really? You'll help out?"
"You're talking to an ex-streamer, cutie. If I was bad at marketing, I wouldn't have gotten big enough for the Academy to take notice. Leave the bird app stuff to me. Just tell me everything you need on it."
"Oh, thank you, Kitty Kat! There's something I needed your help with, too, Care."
"Well if it isn't social media, then I'd guess you need help setting up a website, right?" Carrie replied.
"Yep. I've got a rough idea of what I want, but I thought I'd run it by a computer whiz with a sharp eye, first. If you don't mind?"
"Of course I don't mind! I'm more than happy to help you out. Let's go over your ideas."
"Okay! So, I wanted to start with the homepage..."
A little while later, the girls were all looking over mockups on Carrie's laptop. "So you're set on red-and-yellow, then?" she asked.
"Mmhmm!" Natalia nodded.
"Very good. So, with an e-commerce site, just showing the products won't be enough. People need to envision themselves wearing your clothes. What's the easiest way to do that?"
"Oh, that's easy! Modeling photos. But I dunno if I can afford a professional shoot..."
"Don't need to. Here's where having friends everywhere can work wonders. We'll be your models." Kat said.
"Really? You'd do that?"
"1000%. We can call up the rest of the Krew and ask 'em, too. Everyone's got a few of your outfits in their wardrobes. Bookie's got a modeling gig on the side, so she can definitely find a guy to help out with equipment. And I'm sure our resident diva can find someone stateside to help her and Keebie."
"They'll all be happy to help, I'm sure of it. That's what we're all here for." Carrie reassured.
"You guys, that...that'd be amazing! This...this is really starting to feel real. I don't know what I'd do without you all helping me. Through *everything*. Now I can tell my parents there's a real path to making us a global brand. Oh, I think I'm gonna cry..." Natalia responded.
Kat patted her on the head. "We love you, Natty. We wanna see ya happy. That hasn't changed since Day 1."
"We can count the ways. Shall we, Kitten?" Carrie asked.
"Shall you...what?" Natalia questioned.
"Oh, I get what you mean. Alrighty. Here's Kitty Kat and Care Bear's Reasons to Love Our Best Friend Natty. You're a total cinnamon roll."
"Your creations are exquisite and so unbelievably comfortable." Carrie added.
"I feel like I'm in heaven whenever I have a bite of your cooking."
"The same whenever I'm lucky to be hugged by you."
"You...you guys..." Natalia started to tear up.
"And most of all, Hoods..." Kat began. "The journey you've gone on has been incredible to see. To go as low as a person could be, and come back the way you have...it's been inspiring to watch. For that first year and change, I was scared we might lose you to your own doubts. And we almost did. But now look at you! You're so strong. Not just in turning your own life around, but doing the same thing for someone that was awful to you once. Getting your future in order when we were so scared you weren't gonna have one...we don't have the words. Y'know, except for these."
"So I suppose the long and short of it is..." Carrie started.
"We love you, Natalia Van Damme. We're your friends for life." both girls stated.
"AAAAAAH! I LOVE YOU GUUUUUYS!" Natalia tightly, tearfully embraced them both. "I can't believe I'm lucky enough to be around you two. That tears it! When you two finally decide to tie the knot, I'm making your dresses! No ifs, ands or buts about it!"
"No objections here, but me and Care, ah...kinda agreed we weren't gonna talk about that for a while yet." Kat replied.
"What we can talk about is those modeling photos. Why don't we get started right now?" Carrie asked.
"Huh? Like *now* now?" Natalia asked.
"Why not? We've already got your sweaters on. Get your face dry, throw on your cutest hoodie, and let's make some magic." Kat replied.
"Okay...give me a little bit! We've gotta make this perfect! As perfect as my best friends in the whole world!" Natalia bounded off, nearly tripping in her excitement.
"Careful where you step, dear!" Carrie warned.
"Man, what a crazy couple of days, huh? I'm bummed we're leaving Tabs out of it." Kat said.
"She needs a good pick-me-up, too. Ask her tomorrow if she'd like to do a photo shoot. It could be fun."
"Think I'll do just that. For now, though..."
"Okay, I'm ready!" Natalia came back with a yellow hoodie, a red 'VD' logo visible on the front.
The girls sat down on the couch, setting up Natalia's phone to take the picture. "Big, warm smiles, you two!" Natalia bid from the middle.
"Gladly." Carrie replied.
"Here's to a bright future, ladies." Kat stated.
With happiness in their eyes, the three roommates spent the next several minutes taking photos ranging from straightforward to silly.
The last one taken would end up framed and mounted in the living room soon after, showing the loving friends hugging each other warmly, with big smiles.