Mind's Eye

The morning after meeting with Anvil, Diamond awoke to see Sunset gazing fondly in her eyes.

"Morning."

"Hey..."

Diamond rubbed her eyes. She sat up and stretched.

"Can we talk?" Sunset asked.

"Sure. What's up?"

"I heard what you told Anvil: you know...About me."

Diamond turned red enough to combust. She felt embarrassed and ashamed.

"Sorry..."

Sunset shook her head. Her smile never faded.

"Don't apologize. To tell you the truth, I'm flattered. The last thing I ever expected in life was to win someone's heart."

"Really...?"

"Yeah. I like being around you. You make me feel like I'm needed."

"I feel the same way, but you're an adult now. We can't do anything..."

"Maybe nothing that breaks the law, but there are many more subversive ways that love can be shown."

"How?"

"Like this, for starters."

Sunset slipped Diamond's fingers through her own. The older girl's hands were warm. The sensation was comforting.

"Holding hands?"

"It's a universal gesture, isn't it?"

"True."

"When Anvil mentioned the assimilation of the shadow, I started wondering if the same rule could be applied to our situation. How could I show you your feelings were requited without crossing the line? Then it hit me: I had to do what I've always done, just more mindfully and consciously."

"What is your shadow saying now?"

"It's time for breakfast."

Diamond chuckled.

"Smartass."

"You're getting kind of mouthy, there. Careful. Shadows have an interesting way of remembering things over long periods of time. I might have to pay you back when you get older."

"Whatever, weirdo. If you're gonna threaten me with a good time, at least make me breakfast first."

"Your wish is my command."

Sunset lifted Diamond onto her back and carried her downstairs.

"Do you think Anvil will be okay?" the child questioned.

"I wouldn't worry too much. Being a shrink, I'm sure there's not a lot she hasn't seen."

"She couldn't tell us anything about her other patients."

"We have to trust her judgement. That's all we can do."

"Yeah..."

"Hey, don't look so glum. Tell you what. After school we'll head to the arcade and chill by the lake for a bit."

"Are you asking me out on a date?"

"Maybe."

"I'll have to think about it. My shadow, on the other hand..."

"Next time we see Anvil, we should tell her about this. She might be able to give me some insight on how to handle it."

"Just walk in and tell the doc you like little girls."

"Jesus."

Sunset let Diamond onto the tile floor. The teen pulled a pan from the kitchen rack and started breakfast.