Chapter 30: Their Ritual

Cagalli was panting when she finally reached Athrun. "Sorry I'm late," she said. "The teacher took forever going over our next assignment."

Athrun was standing by the small, frosted window holding a long, red candle.

"It's fine," he said. "I know it was your idea, but you don't have to keep coming."

"I can't just leave you alone," she spoke softly. "Besides, we're about a week late." She turned to the window, and the two watched the dark clouds pass by.

"You've been doing this with me for the past two months." He didn't look at her.

"Is that a problem?"

She stared directly at him, eyes piercing. He couldn't help but be drawn to them—the pulled him.

"No." he was looking into her eyes. "I'm grateful. My mother would also be grateful." He looked down and sighed. "Maybe I should just thank you."

"Maybe you should," she smirked. "Let's not waste any more time." She went into her pant's pocket and pulled out a lighter. She lit the candle, and Athrun sat it on the windowsill. The two watched, silently, as the flame danced.