Inheritance

Tricks of the Trade

Late that night, as Alane slept on the bed next to him, Alec traces patterns on her forearm and considers the idea he had.

It was risky, and there would only be one chance to get it right.

Alec feels that it is a risk that must be taken, his point of view only strengthened when Alane's eyes fly open, horror filling her expression. 

She clings to Alec, trembling. He whispers soothingly in her ear, slowly calming her down.

"It was just a nightmare Alane." Alec presses his lips against her forehead, her breathing slowing and eventually settling at a more normal pace. 

"Don't worry," he whispers after she has fallen asleep once again, "I'm going to take your pain away." 

--

The next morning Alane has to wake Alec once again, his weight pinning her arm down against the bed. "Alec?" she whispers softly, "Alec, wake up." 

He lets out a tired sigh, his mind groggy and not quite comprehending the words as they reach his ears. 

"Wake up please," Alane brushes her free hand through his hair. Alec leans into her hand, ending up rolling on top of her and nuzzling her neck as if she where a pillow. 

A blush covers Alane's cheeks, her hand touching the warmth with confusion. She had never blushed before, and found the sensation amusing. 

"Alec," she feels the blush darken as his arms tighten around her, "it is time to get up." 

Finally Alec's eyes open, blinking slowly as he adjusts to the light. He stares up at her, processing the situation with a tired slowness. 

Alec takes a deep breath, enjoying the warmth of being so close to another person- angel or not. 

Alane makes a small, cat- like noise, running her fingers through his hair and considering the strange emotions the human gave her. 

What did Alec say humans call this? 

Caring? Love? Alane looks at him once again and the word comes to her. 

Happiness.