you’re every good day

Absinth listened to Yarra in silence, her expression gradually softening as she absorbed the raw emotion in the Saxe woman's words. The support, the rage, the promise of vengeance—it all resonated deeply, touching something in Absinth she hadn't let others reach in a long time. Maybe never. As Yarra's words trailed off, Absinth allowed herself to be drawn into the embrace, her body stiff at first but gradually relaxing into the comforting hold. The feeling of Yarra’s chin over her shoulder, the familiar scent, it all made her feel momentarily safe. It was strange. This was a different side to Yarrabelle, one Absinth hadn’t fully realized she was seeing until the comforting words washed over her.

“Yarra,” She whispered, her voice growing in confidence as she reigned herself in; her nares taking in the scent of the magenta female around her. “That means more than you know. Thank you.” She pulled back just enough to meet Yarra's gaze, her own eyes shimmering with gratitude and a flicker of the old fear that still haunted her. But she was making more of an effort to return to her usual demeanor, if not for her own sake then for Yarra’s. She wouldn’t want the other woman to think any less of her for wallowing too long.

The corners of her mouth twitched up in a small, appreciative smile as Yarra continued, affirming her strength. “I’m not that scared pup anymore,” Absinth agreed, her voice gaining a bit more of its usual steadiness. Small, scared, terrified that he would turn on her. “He won’t find the same girl he once knew. I’ve grown, I’ve learned. I’ve become something he never expected. Something he didn’t make. Serves him damn right.” Right. He expected her to fall in line immediately. Go running to him, but she didn’t need him anymore. Parasite she had freed herself from. Her smile widened, a hint of dark satisfaction in her eyes. “You’re right – he’s in for quite the fucking surprise.”
wormwood