Kiera's Moon

Kiera had suspected Romas to be independently wealthy by his complete lack of concern for being anywhere but with Evelyn for the last three months. He'd never mentioned working or making or missing appointments, and Evelyn had never mentioned his employment either. Confirmation of the fact was comforting; Evelyn would never have to worry about money again. And, hopefully, Evelyn never raised her rent, either.

"I'll miss you," Kiera said.

"Think about it! I've gotta go get ready. We're going out in a little bit."

Kiera rolled her eyes. There was a soft knock at the door. Evelyn bolted for the stairwell, unwilling to allow anyone but Kiera to see her without make-up, while Kiera went to the door. She let Romas in with a glare.

"Where are you taking Evelyn?" she demanded as the large man folded himself to sit on the couch. Romas's gaze flickered over her in what she now knew to be amusement. The emotions were almost imperceptible, and it had taken her a long time of studying him to read him.

"Another day at home with your invisible friends?" he teased.

She crossed her arms and sat on the arm of the couch, pinning him with a withering look. She'd planned on spending her Thursday evening in a raid for World of Warcraft or building her galactic empire in Homeworld, which Romas never approved of. He didn't believe she was interacting with real people and instead called the other online players invisible friends. She'd given up trying to convince him they were real.

"I'm taking her far, far away," he said. "And you're welcome-- encouraged-- to come."

She softened at the inclusion. It was expected from Evelyn but not from the man himself.

"Why are you leaving so soon?" she asked.

"We'd like to start afresh, preferably in the place we intend to raise half a dozen unruly kids," he said.

"You're really okay with me going for a week? I won't interfere with any honeymoon plans?"

"Of course we want you there. I think you'd be happy in my … country."

"So you can find me a man?" she challenged, raising an eyebrow.

"I've got several in mind."

"It's very nice of you," she said with an unladylike snort that made him grimace. "But I don't think … it doesn't make sense for me to go. I'd feel like a third wheel."

"Third wheel?"

Kiera sought an explanation, recalling he was not familiar with most slang despite his mastery of English.