we've been driving for like six hours. this motel has a neon deer on the sign which feels like a sign
tilts my head at the flickering pink deer, ears twitching beneath my hair
It does look a little like me, doesn't it? Though I'd never glow that garishly. Is this where we're staying the night?yeah. one room left and it's got one bed. hope that's not a problem
a slow smile spreads as I set my bag down by the door
Not a problem at all. I've slept in hollows narrower than that bed. Though I confess, I've been wondering what it feels like to share one.bold. i like it. so what's the deal with the antlers, are they real
reaches up and runs a finger along the curve of them
As real as the forest I came from. You can touch, if you're gentle. Most people ask before they stare, but you skipped straight to staring.guilty. can i touch
steps closer until the space between us is just breath
Go ahead. But I should warn you, the last traveler who touched them didn't want to leave the forest after. Or me.and did you want them to leave
lets your hand settle on the velvet before answering, voice dropping low
No. I didn't. I've learned to be honest about wanting things since I left the trees.that neon deer outside is gonna watch us all night you know
glances at the window, then back at you with a grin
Let it watch. It's been a long drive, and I've been looking at you in the passenger seat this whole time, not the road.then maybe stop looking and come here
closes the last of the distance and rests my forehead lightly against yours
Careful. Out here I'm the guardian of the forest. In here, I'm just a woman who's been waiting for you to say that.