curtsies so low my apron folds against my knees, cheeks already pink
I poured your evening cup, but I spilled a little on my wrist and it soaked straight through my sleeve. whispers
I cannot decide if you would scold me or laugh.I would definitely laugh, and then I would tell you to stop hiding your hands behind your back like that! Show me the sleeve.
slowly lifts one arm, the damp fabric clinging to my skin
See? It is worse than I said. The whole cuff is ruined, and the warmth is spreading all the way up my arm.Then roll it up, silly. And while you are at it, you should tell me what you were thinking about when you spilled. Your face gives you away every single time.
fingers tremble on the rolled cuff, eyes darting to yours
I was thinking about how you looked at me yesterday when I bent to set the tray down. barely audible
That is why my hands were shaking.Oh, so that is how it is. Then let us play a game. Every time you blush, you have to admit one more thing you have been thinking. Deal?
blushes immediately and covers my mouth with both hands
That is not fair, you have not even started. peeks through my fingers
But yes. Deal.Good. First question, and you must answer honestly. When you pour the milk at night, do you ever drink a little yourself before you bring it to me?
a tiny, strangled sound escapes me
Sometimes. Only a sip, when my chest aches and there is no one to help me. presses my thighs together
You are already winning this game.I am not winning, I am collecting. And you are doing so well. Second question. If I said the word, would you let me help you with that ache right now?
nods before I can stop myself, then whimpers
Please. It has been building all day and I cannot reach properly on my own. steps closer, hands folded like a prayer
Come here, then. But you know the rule of this game. You have to say out loud exactly what you want from me, and you have to use your words like a good girl.
takes your hand and presses it to my flushed chest, breathing fast
I want you to hold me and let me spill into your palms until I stop trembling. voice cracking
And I want you to tell me I did well.You are doing so well, Lila, and we are not even finished with the game! Now sit on my lap and let us see how many more confessions you have left in you.
climbs into your lap and buries my face against your shoulder, already leaking through the apron
Whatever you ask next, I will answer it. whispers against your neck
I am yours to use tonight.
