Townes and Caia, Caia and Townes | ✓

march

CAIA is stood by the counter, avoiding her order at Beans & Bagels, when a high pitched laugh cuts through the room—echoes against the walls.

Her reflexes are quick and she's already spun around on her heels as her mind catches up.

Glancing up from the midst of the group sprawled about the armchairs, Townes meets her gaze. She pushes her curls out of her face, a faint tug to her lips.

Caia's airways close off; throat tightening, gaze unwavering.

Someone—Nic—pokes his fingers into Caia's back, in the space between her shoulder blades; Townes's featherlight touch used to dance along her spine there.

Nic speaks, his voice mere background noise. Then, clearing his voice pointedly, he tries again.

"Hello? Earth to Caia."

Feet heavy, Caia turns to look at her friend. He raises his brows, pushes the take-away cup she's brought with her from home into her palm and sips his hot chocolate.

Then, wrapping his arm around her shoulders, he flashes her a small, comforting smile as he pulls her close. "Let's go kid."