Marita’s After Story Story Idea and writing was done by Insanity1 (Rita, or me, if you couldn’t tell) Editing was done by Darkangelsmg3 (@Darkangelsmg3 And I am internally grateful to him for spending his ENTIRE weekend editing this story.) Maria Edims suddenly found herself standing in front of the park ride, labeled 'Your last Ride.'' ''Wha...What was I doing here?'' Maria said with a startled voice, she couldn't remember anything she was doing before. ''Siren must be looking for me!'' She added, raising the tone of her voice. Maria began to walk around the museum, in search for her gaurdian. She then came across a room with the ride “Insanitor” with a certain girl in front of the sign. She had a dark-red T-shirt on and. Maria suddenly started to have flashbacks; flashbacks of the time she was in the horrific, carnivalized world full of clowns and evil rides, but most of all, she remembered the person she was with while trapped in a demonic world, Rita. The red eyed girl in the red shirt was Rita, the person she couldn't bare to be without anymore. 'Rita...Rita I'm here!' She thought as she ran to Rita. 'Rita. Rita! Please remember me, please.' She figured if she didn't remember their delusional journey at first, Rita wouldn't remember either. The red-eyed girl of fifteen years of age, that stood before Maria, turned around and looked to the brown/purple haired girl, aged fourteen. She smiled friendly at Maria. ''H…How do you know my name?... Well…What is it?'' Rita said, with a kind voice. Maria then realized, Rita had to forgotten her time in the unknown world. ''No...No Rita...Rita please remember...Please...You know who I am!'' Maria said, without realizing she let the words slip from her mouth so quickly, sounding like she was about to burst in tears any moment. ''N...No, I think you must be mistaken, I don't think we've ever met before. Look, I have to get going. I hope you find your parents soon.'' Rita replied, again in the sweet, kind tone Maria loved, but she couldn't help but feel the pain of losing Rita again, and that Rita can't remember her. The teen with the red eyes turned around swiftly, her skirt swaying in the air, and she walked down the corridor, away from the purple/brown haired girl. Maria fell on her knees; she felt the tears swell up in her eyes and beginning to trickle down her pale, smooth face. Rita reached into her pocket, and suddenly felt something hard and small inside. She grabbed it firmly and took it out of her pocket so she could see what it was. ''Maria...'' She murmured, reading the black, written name which was written on the pen, which was covered in blood. ''Maria...'' She repeated her to then having flashbacks of her time with the lady inside of the park. The girl she realized which was only fourteen years of age, but captured her heart. The girl named Maria. ''Maria...I was...to write something...A girl...A girl gave me her pen...Yes! I was given the pen...By that girl...By Maria!'' Rita said, with quite a loud voice now. ''I remember now...We were together back there...How could of I forgotten? It was so important! We stuck together through the bizarre park...Chased by the clowns and Ganzalo too, right?! I...Maria, do you remember? Please tell me you remember, please!'' She then said with what sounded like a worried tone towards the end. She didn't want the girl, the girl who made her feel, elite to forget. When saying her name, she turned around quickly and ran over to Maria, kneeling down next to her and placing her hand on her back gently, trying not to startle her. Maria nodded, and turned her head in her direction. Rita could now see the tears which were formed in her eyes and slowly making their way down her skin. ''R...Rita...!'' She smiled widely, and threw her arms around her neck, pulling her into a tight hug. ''Oh, thank goodness!'' Rita said in response, also embracing her long arms softly around Maria's fragile body. ''It's hard to believe even now...But it must have happened, right?'' Rita added, and slowly pulled out from the hug. She found her red and black eyes locked with Maria's crimson ones. Maria showed a gentle smile, showing how grateful she was that she helped her make it out, together. ''Maria...We got back safely! We did it!...Ahaha,'' Rita stood up, and then reached for Maria's hand to help Maria up. ''...There's so much more I want to talk about, but I've got to get going.'' She said, sounding a little disappointed that she had to leave that moment. ''R...Rita...Please don't leave, I don't want to lose you again.'' Maria said, finding again herself crying. She looked down, her brown and purple locks covering her eyes so Rita couldn't see that she was crying. Maria knew she should be more grown-up after what they just went through together. Rita carefully placed her hand on Maria's warm cheek, lifting her face up again gently. ''Maria...Don't cry, I promise that we will see each other again, very soon!'' She paused, and used her long sleeve to softly wipe the tears away from Maria's face and eyes. In doing so, she felt her fingertips touch her soft skin. She felt her fingers trembling, hoping she wouldn't scare Maria. ''Is it all right if I kept the pen a while longer? It wouldn't do to return it as it is...I'll have to...Make it clean, and then give it back...Because...We will see each other again!'' Maria showed a wide smile, her face changing from upset to happy, reassuring Rita that she trusted her. ''But before I go, here, take this.'' She reached again into her other pocket the time, and took out a red crystal watch. ''Here, keep this for me. It's something I've had for a long time in my family, passed down from my mother and father.'' She showed a warm, gently smile. One of her famous smiles to Maria, which always made her feel like she had butterflies in her stomach. She took the pretty, red watch from Rita's soft hands and looked at it carefully. She knew that she would look after the watch and never lose it. ''This will also show that I will see you again, and when we do, we can swap items! Your pen for my watch.'' She smiled again at her, reassuring her the time. ''I can't wait to see you again, Rita!'' She shouted, realizing how loud she said it. Rita put her hand gently on her head and scuffled her hair, and showed Maria her pinky finger. ''I promise we will see each other again. You have my word.'' Maria locked her pinky finger with her, and then looked again up to her gleaming, red and black eyes she found herself attracted to. Rita stood up from her knee and waved goodbye and slowly walked down the corridor. Maria waved back, knowing she promised their reunion. Since then, Maria and Rita had met up for the first time again a week later after their bizarre, yet extraordinary journey together. Rita had managed to remove the blood from Maria's pen, and then enjoy taking Maria to the cafe, like she said she wanted her to taste the burgers their whilst in the ‘Carnival’, of the world they had now abandoned. As for the pen, Maria let Rita kept it as a gift from her. She wanted her to hold onto it. Have a small part of her. And the red watch Rita gave Maria in return; she let her keep that too. A token of her love… She thought. Three years have passed since the day they met at the park, and every single free day Maria had, Rita would pick her up from school and take her to her hosue, helping her with her reading and grammar for school. Her grades improved massively with all the extra help from Rita. She would help her complete homework, and on the weekends she would visit her parents' house, and Maria's parents would gladly serve her their afternoon dinner. Every time Rita rang the cheering bell of Maria's house, she would run down the stairs in a hurry, nearly almost slipping in the excitement of Rita coming. Maria was now a young, sixteen year old girl. Rita had aged to seventeen years, but both of their appearances hardly changed. Maria had become a beautiful, slim lady, and still had the same purple/brown hair. Rita still had the long red hair, which Maria loved. Maria’d sometimes even tie Rita's hair up in a bobble it was that long. Rita also worked as a mechanic for vehicles; but at the moment she had a few months break for holiday. One normal day after school, Rita waited outside of Maria's academy patiently, sitting on a rather large rock until she left the school doors. It was a Friday, so she knew that Maria was allowed to stay Rita's over the weekend. They had never been anything more than friends. Rita knew her strong, love for Maria was growing every time she saw her, and even more when her amazing, crimson eyes locked with her. She knew that while Maria was under the age of sixteen, she would never show her love in the romantic type of way, but since her sixteenth birthday, she has become more attracted to her than ever. Maria also knew that she loved Rita, loved her in a different way she loved reading, loved sweets, and loved her parents. She knew that she had a different kind of relationship with Rita. She would always tell her that she loves her, and Rita would respond kindly replying that she loves her too, but Maria never believed that she loved her like she loved her. Honestly, both of them had very hard problems with telling the other about their feelings for each other, especially since both of them thought the other was 100% straight. Now Maria is sixteen, and Rita still hasn't found the confidence to admit her un-denying love for the sweet girl she found dearest to her heart. Maria rushed out of the doors of the academy, and ran down the lengthy path, out of the gates to Rita with her satchel over one shoulder carrying her books and homework. Rita stood up with ease and opened her arms for Maria to run into; their way of greeting each other. Maria fell into her arms and lied her heard softly against her warm chest, wrapping her arms around Rita’s waist onto her back. She smiled warmly and closed her eyes. 'I missed you today again, Rita.' She whispered loud enough so she could hear her. She knew she also had a close bond with Rita, but didn't know how to tell Rita her feelings for her. 'I missed you too, Maria.' She also felt a smile curve on her face, she just loved every moment she spent with Maria, and even just hugging her in a friendly way, she still loved it. Maria pulled from the hug gently and looked at Rita. Rita was now a bit shorter than Maria, but Rita was still older, regardless. 'I…I might need help with some homework I have to complete.' Maria said, innocently and nervously twisting her body with her fingers in-twining each other behind her back. She loved Rita to help her with her work, but she always thought that she annoys her with the constant work she brings out of school. She always had her mind focused on a certain someone in lessons. 'Don't worry, Maria. I will help you with whatever you need help with.' She smiled down at her kindly, showing that she was perfectly OK with helping her, but she always doubted. Maria and Rita made their way to her apartment. Rita put her key in the lock and reached for the door handle, gripping it and twisting it so it would open. The door would get stuck occasionally, so she would have to jiggle the handle and push her shoulder into the wall to get it to open. Maria bit her lower lip to hide the laugh at Rita trying to open her own door, but then worried at the same time that she wouldn't hurt her shoulder. This time, the door opened with ease, and Rita allowed Maria to enter before her. She thanked her and kicked her shoes of and placed them tidily next to the coat handle near the door. When she walked into her apartment, she always felt the warmth gather around her body from the fire. His apartment was small, yet cozy, she loved it, most of all because that's where she could spend alone time with Rita. Rita knew, her heart belonged to Maria. She felt like she would fall to her knees for her… She placed her satchel on the sofa and began to take her jacket off. Unexpectedly, Rita came behind her and helped her with her jacket. Maria turned around and looked up into Rita's bold, blue eyes and smiled. She felt her cheeks blush and Rita saw that too, she smiled, knowing Maria was grateful. Rita just wanted to somehow slowly show her burning love for her. She took the jacket and walked over to the coat hanger, and hung her jacket up on one of the several pegs, and while doing so hanging her own coat on a peg next to Maria's jacket. Maria sat down on her sofa and cuddled to one of the pillows, she just wanted to sit down after the lengthy walk to her apartment, and plus the many stairs her academy included. Rita walked over to the sofa and sat down next to her, taking the remote to the TV from the maroon wooden table, pressing the large red button and the TV light flicked on. She grabbed her pack of cigarettes and reached into her trouser pocket for her silver plated lighter. Maria turned her head curiously to see what she was doing, and then she realized. 'I thought you said you were going to try and stop that habit.' She said, but she wasn't being angry about it, she was wondering kindly. 'Ahhh…Erm…' Rita groaned. Maria came closer to her and smiled warmly. It always made Rita smile to, to see one of these smiles from Maria. 'I know that it's hard to stop something your…Addicted too.' When saying this, Maria thought of a completely different scenario…She realized she can't stop loving the person she is addicted too. Rita. Their minds thought alike, as Rita to thought similar. She smiled back at Maria and decided to put the lighter on the wooden table and also the cigarette back in the packet. 'W-Wait, don't let me stop you, Rita.' Maria then spoke. Rita put her finger over her lips. 'I'm going to try, if I keep taking them it's just going make me more addicted.' She replied, stroking a stand of hair from Maria behind her ear. Maria felt her cheeks flush with red again, she tilted her head down, shyly. Rita had an idea of how she makes Maria feel. She notices when she blushes and goes shy. She loves to see her so innocent like that, still like a little girl, even though she is all grown up. Maria loved Fridays. She knew that she would get to spend the whole weekend with Rita. The sat on the sofa together, watching a comedy movie. Rita's TV wasn't massive, but Maria didn't mind; as long as she got to spend time with Rita, she was happy. They weren't that close to each other. Maria didn't know how to ask if she could move closer to her, and Rita didn't want to make Maria feel uncomfortable, if she didn't feel for her the way Rita felt of her. Suddenly, a large gasp of wind blew into the room from the open window in the apartment. Maria shivered and clutched her arms around her body to try and keep warm. Rita saw Maria's coldness, and jumped of the sofa quite quickly and shut the window so Maria wouldn't freeze anymore. She came back to the sofa and saw how cold she was. She speeded into her bedroom quickly and grabbed a blanket for Maria, and came back to the room she was sitting in. She carefully wrapped the cover around Maria's body, and smiled at her, trying to comfort her, hoping she would get warm soon again. 'Th-Thank you.' She said, shivering and teeth chattering. Rita stood up again and whispered; 'Wait here.' She walked into the kitchen; switching on the kettle, boiling hot water. She grabbed the hot chocolate container and a mug from one of the cupboards, and then began to make her something warm to drink. A few minutes later, she entered the room which Maria was in again, and knelt down in-front of her. 'Here, I'm sorry it took a while to make but, I hope this helps you to get warm again.' She gave a kind smile while handing over the warm mug. She took it gracefully into her hands and began to sip on the hot chocolate Rita had made her. 'Thank you so much Rita.' Maria told her with appreciation, smiling back at her, a really thankful smile. Rita just loved the way she smiled. She sat back down on the sofa and let Maria drink the hot chocolate. When she finished, she placed the mug onto the table next to her, a duplicate of the maroon, wooden table next to Rita. She still felt her body shiver, even though the blanket and the warm drink helped a lot. Rita noticed that she had goose-bumps on her arms on the parts the blanket wasn't covering. She removed her eyes quickly, hoping Maria wouldn't notice she was looking at her. 'Are you still cold, Maria?' She asked politely. Maria shyly nodded her head in response. 'S-Sorry.' She apologized. 'Don't apologize.' Rita replied, and at the same time she thought of an Idea. While imagining it she felt a small smirk appear of her face. She looked down at her hands, thinking of how to ask Maria her idea. She slowly turned her head up to face her, and whispered gently; 'I'm warm, you know,' She smiled, opening one arm for her. Maria went flustered, her cheeks once again became a blooming red color. Maria realized she was smiling widely, and shuffled across the sofa into Rita's arm, cuddling close to her body. She realized how warm she was, and got comfy under her arm, closing her eyes. Rita smirked, and closed her arm, wrapping it gently around Maria's small body. Maria shared her blanket with Rita, covering her with it too, so she kept warm as well. She loved this, and Maria did too. They both fell more in love with each other with little moments like this. The next morning, Maria woke up in a familiar room, lying on Rita's large, double bed; her bedroom. The sheets were a deep shade of blue, and so were the pillows. The bed was made of the same type of wood from the tables next to the sofa's, but a lot stronger. She slowly sat up and realized where she was and her surroundings, and smiled widely. She loved to wake up in Rita's bed. It had a comfy mattress, and very soft it was indeed. The only thing she disliked about it, was that she wasn't waking up next to her, the one she loves; Rita. But she knew, she wouldn't make her feel uncomfortable like that. She stood up cautiously, trying not to make a sound unless Rita was sleeping somewhere still. She would normally sleep on the sofa, as she'd always give Maria her bed, she wouldn't make her sleep on the sofa. She walked into the small, cozy living room and found a blanket spread across the sofa with pillows on one end, and saw Rita was not there. She had a puzzled expression on her face, and then she suddenly smelt egg's cooking, the aroma coming from the kitchen. She smiled to herself, she knew Rita thought she couldn't cook, but as long as it was from her, she didn't mind. She actually thought her cooking was amazing. Maria slowly tip-toed towards the kitchen, and peered around the door frame. She saw Rita's back to her, her just wearing her light blue trousers and her red tank top. Maria sneaked up behind her carefully. 'Boo!' She shouted reasonably loud. Rita took a fright, and jumped at the unexpected sound of her voice. 'AH!' Rita laughed, and smiled friendly at Maria. 'Good morning, young lady.' She smirked, 'I'm making you some breakfast, I hope don't mind. I know my cooking isn't the best in the world.' She added, commenting on the egg's she had in the frying pan. Maria shook her head and felt the edges of her mouth curl up into a smile again. 'You know you don't have to make me breakfast, Rita.' She laughed lightly, and softly hugged Rita, showing she was thankful. She always felt so warm to her… Maria hoped that one day she'd call Rita hers, and she'd understand her love for her. Rita hoped the same, but none of them knew their love for each other. Maria and Rita always had this meadow to themselves, their own secret place in the Forrest close to Rita's apartment. When they were younger, they occasionally visited the meadow, taking a picnic basket with them. Rita admitted to herself that she wasn't the best in the kitchen, so she would always stop at the café to buy a whole load of burgers and fries for herself and the girl she held closest to her heart; Maria. They'd mostly visit their on weekends, and up until now, they haven't visited there for a while. 'Maria, I've been thinking.' Rita claimed, while sitting on the sofa with Maria while she ate her egg's on toast Rita made her. 'Hm?' Maria murmured, trying not to sound un-polite while eating. 'I was wondering; if today, you'd like to visit our old meadow again today? It's been awhile.' Rita answered, smiling while watching Maria enjoy her breakfast. She was glad her cooking didn't disgust her, and that it tasted good. She wouldn't want Maria to eat anything bad. Maria's eyes widened in joy, she smiled widely and giggled. 'I would love too!' She said cheerfully, finishing her breakfast. About thirty minutes' later, they arrived at what they call, ''their'' meadow, after packing a large blanket and visiting the café for piles of macaroons for them to share, and some cherry flavored sweets, both their favorite. Like the one Rita gave Maria from her jacket pocket in the reversed carnival. Rita took the blanket out of the picnic basket and lay it straight on the rich grass, underneath the beautiful tree, which shined bright green leaves and had rough, brown bark to rest their backs on when they brought a couple of pillows, if they were planning to spend the day there. The picnic basket full of goodies stood close to the tree, while Rita and Maria sat on the red and white checked blanket together, watching the clouds and sharing macaroons. Maria would sometimes take the macaroon and put it in her mouth, and then allow Rita to bite the other half. They both found this incredibly cute. Rita would also unwrap the lemon sweet and place it on her tongue, and Maria would do the same back. After a few minutes', they both lay comfortably down on the blanket, and stared up at the clouds above them in the blue sky. There was a slight breeze in the air, but it was cool, instead of a beaming hot sun blazing down on them. Rita turned her head to face her, and smiled herself once she saw her cheeks bloom with a light pink color, and slowly turned her head away, back to the clouds. They both watched the cloud in the sky, and after a few moments, a few of them mixed together and forming into a beautiful shaped love heart. They both then felt their smile curve even more. Their bodies were lying closely together, Maria felt her small fingers skimming Rita's hand, and could feel her fingers tremble when she touched her. She carefully trailed her hand down further until her hand fell into her, and their fingers locked together; entwining with each other, just like the heart in the sky. She closed her eyes, enjoying holding Rita's hand like this. Rita turned her head again to Maria, still feeling her own hand tremble. She holded her hand lightly and smiled with pleasure. She loved to be with Maria, it made her feel complete. She closed her eyes and turned her head back straight towards the sky. After arriving home from the meadow, Rita told Maria to wait on the sofa while she got something ready in the other room across from her living room. She sat waiting, yet impatient. Just what was she planning? She sat up right, her hands on her lap, fingers twisting together. She heard the movement of large furniture across the floor. She'd never really looked in that room; she'd just noticed occasionally a group of musical instruments in the corner. 'All ready.' Rita announced, standing at the door of the living room which separated her Maria from this ''secret.'' Rita stood leaning against the door frame, wiping the sweat from her head. She was in her tank top, her coat hung up at the coat hanger. Maria smiled at her; 'Are you okay? It sounded like you were moving something.' Maria laughed lightly. Rita loved her sweet laugh, which was like music to her ears. She laughed to, and walked over to Maria, reaching for her hand. 'Would you like to come see what it is?' She asked, whilst Maria took her hand. She nodded her head and Rita smirked, leading her into the room. She saw a black piano in the middle of the room, with a vase including one red rose, one blue rose, and one beautiful purple rose in the middle.. Maria raised her eyebrows in shock, yet confusement; 'You play the piano?' She asked. Rita nodded her head. 'W-Well, I've been practicing with the Siren, for someone.' She smiled widely. She'd always been interested in music. She lead Maria to the leather, black seat in front of the Piano, and sat her down next to her. She took out a sheet from one of her draws, labeled ''Maria's lullaby.'' Maria's eyes skimmed over the text, she smiled in shock. Did Rita write a song for her? Without saying anything else, Rita gave Maria a friendly glare and turned her head to the piano. She began to play a sweet, soft melody, for her one and only, Maria. The melody was simple, yet beautiful. It included mostly high notes, but sounded perfect in the way there were written and formed together. Maria felt the tears swell up in her eyes, her hand trembled over her mouth as she watched Rita's hands move across the piano key's, playing every note with perfect timing, not making one mistake. Rita felt a sweat appear on her head, and many thoughts ran through her mind as she tried to keep focused on the lullaby. She thought; what If Maria doesn't like it? What if she rejects me now? After a short few minutes', which seemed like three hours to both of them, the gentle lullaby came to a finish, with the melody stuck in Maria's head. She felt…Honoured. She couldn't believe Rita would write a song, just for HER. 'I-It's beautiful…' Maria said, feeling one tear escaping from her eye and trailing down her cheek. Rita noticed the tear, also noticing they were tears of happiness. She felt her mind set at ease, and her racing heart slowed down, but not for long. Rita carefully wiped the tear from Maria's cheek with her soft thumb gently, and Maria moved closer to her, with a wide smile on her face. Rita smiled back; 'Just like you.' And without realizing, these words slipped out of Rita's mouth. More thoughts rushed into her head, she asked herself with anger why she said that. She thought she had made Maria uncomfortable now, and that there was no way she feels the same way for her… But Rita was wrong. Maria slowly came closer to her face, feeling another tear escaping from her eyes. She tilted her head and Rita also came closer to Maria's face, tilting her head in the opposite direction Maria tilted hers. They both closed their eyes at the same time, as they both realized then, how each other felt. Both of their lip's trembled. Maria felt Rita's soft lip's meet her pale ones which such gentleness, which formed a long, first kiss for them both. Maria smiled against her lips and Rita smiled too, both were in shock but yet, they felt amazing… And in that first kiss, many questions were answered. Maria loved Rita, and Rita loved Maria, more than they could ever imagine. After a few romantic minutes' of intensive kissing, they both realized how long their lips have been combined, and slowly parted away from each other, but keeping the closeness of their bodies intact. 'I-…Maria I...I love you. I love you so much.' Rita whispered, opening her eyes slowly, to just get locked into Maria's beautiful, maroon ones. 'Rita, I've loved you…Ever since the day I met you at the gallery…I know I was young, I knew that I didn't understand love fully. But now I do, and I'm in-love with you.' They both smiled so widely it was unbelievable, and just wanted their lips to be met again. And so they did; Maria wrapped her arms around Rita's neck and Rita placed her warm hands on her waist, holding her close to her, just how they always dreamed. Rita couldn't get over the fact that Maria felt the same way for her as she did for her. She loved her personality, her beautifulness, her kindness; she fell in love with everything about her. She could not take her mind of the kiss they shared. Maria also couldn't believe that kiss. Her lips were printed with Rita's soft ones. She felt so perfect, so complete now that she had her. Maria traced her fingertips over her trembling lips; as if to feel every kiss Rita gave her. Rita loved her… Maria sneaked up behind Rita while she was in the kitchen, and carefully wrapped her arms around her waist, hugging her lightly from behind, closing her eyes. Rita smiled, she now had the girl she loved for seven years. She turned around gradually, just to find Maria standing on her tippy-toes and to feel her lip's crash into her. Both of their eyes closed, Rita relaxed her large hands on Maria's middle back, and Maria's arms wrapped around her neck. They kept kissing each other several times, not wanting to stop. Maria laughed lightly against Rita's lips, and she laughed too. 'Hey, beautiful.' Rita whispered, stroking through Maria's hair with her fingers gently, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear and caressing her cheek. Maria blushed, and placed her cold hand over Rita's warm one. Rita shuddered a little from the coldness of Maria's hand. 'Maria, you're freezing.' Rita frowned, looking to the girl she cared about the most. She took her into her arms and holded her close to her also warm chest, moving her gentle hands along Maria’s back to try and help her get warm. 'We don't want you get a cold now, do we?' She laughed lightly, still holding her close to her. 'I'm so happy I have you, Rita…You're always there for me.' Maria whispered, but Rita could understand her even from the slight mumbling. 'You're just perfect, Maria. I care about you so much.' She whispered back. She looked at the circle; black clock in the kitchen, seeing it was quite late; 11:34pm to be exact. She realized that Maria's eyes were closed, and she looked quite sleepy. 'Are you tired, baby?' She whispered in her ear while still holding her close. She nodded her head slowly. Rita picked her up gently bridle style and carried her into her bedroom. She laid her under the dark blue bedcovers and covered her to keep her warm. She sat next to her on the bed, stroking her hair from her face, while Maria smiled at her, holding her other free hand. 'You know where I am if you need me.' She whispered, and then leaned over, kissing her forehead long and soft. 'Get some rest.' And with that, she walked out the room to the sofa. She didn't like leaving Maria on her own, but she didn't want to make her feel uncomfortable, already sleeping in the same bed as her. She guessed she wouldn't want that just yet. Rita lay down on the sofa, deciding to close her eyes for a few minutes', and gradually fell into a slumber. Maria lay in bed for what she guessed around thirty minutes'. She couldn't sleep. She felt incomplete with her there anymore, next to her. Maria stood up quietly, so she wouldn't wake Rita up if she was sleeping. She opened the door slowly with caution, and saw Rita lying on the sofa, wearing her light blue jeans and white tank top. Maria walked over to her and saw her peaceful face sleeping. She smiled widely; Rita looked so relaxed when she was sleeping. Slowly, but again cautiously, she lifted the blanket of her body and climbed on the sofa next to her, burying her head softly in her warm chest, and covering them both with the large blanket. She hoped she wouldn't mind her joining her; she felt complete again. Rita awoke with the feeling of Maria burying her head into her body, she smiled with surprise. Maria chose on her own will to sleep with her, which she loved. She carefully wrapped her long arms around her small body, holding her close to her, pulling her into a cuddle. Rita kissed her forehead again and they both smiled, falling asleep with each other. When Maria was young, there was moments where she fell asleep on the sofa, lying on Rita's chest after doing homework or something, but now it was different. They both felt complete. The next night, Rita would sleep in the same bed as Maria, cuddling close to her and hugging her softly. They would kiss forever until they finally fell asleep. It was perfect, she loved Maria deeply, and Maria loved her more than she could ever imagine. It was Monday, the beginning of a new school week. Maria had many friends at her school, she was doing well in all subjects and was in top class for all of them. Rita helped her a lot with that, with her reading and writing when she was younger. The teachers praise her for excellent hand writing. Rita had a lot to do with that too. Her writing was all joined up and at perfect size; not too small, not too big. As for numbers, she never enjoyed math, but she was doing reasonably good at it. Rita never enjoyed math either, but she'd help her as much as she possibly could, usually with the help from Dark. Maria also enjoyed massively, dancing. She'd occasionally go to an after school club with her friends on Monday's and Tuesday's, practicing a group dance routine. The group included ten young girls, and the dance style ranged from break dance to ballet. Maria was willing to try anything new. Maria ran out of the school doors on Monday afternoon, a little later than normal because of her after school dancing. Rita was always waiting there, as long as she had to, to see her beautiful girl. She ran into her arms and kissed her intensively. 'I've missed you so much, Rita.' She whispered while hugging her tightly. Rita smiled with glee, and whispered back: 'You know that I've missed you more.' 'Impossible.' Maria whispered. 'Possible.' Rita whispered back. Maria then opened her satchel with the long, leather strap hanging on her shoulder. She reached inside and pulled out a small, colorful poster amongst the many books included in her bag. She waved the paper in front of Rita's florescent blue eyes and let out an excited squeal. Rita took the paper from Maria's small hands and skimmed her eyes along the page. It said it big, bold writing ''DANCE SHOW! This Tuesday!'' She knew Maria was in the dance group, and then she saw writing underneath the title; ''Everyone free to come! Friends and family!'' Rita felt a wide smile appear on her face. Did Maria want her to come? 'Please come Rita! W-Well…If you like. I'm not the best dancer bu-' Her sentence was cut off as Rita's warm lip's crashed into Maria's pair. She smiled widely while kissing her, her bag slid of her shoulder and onto the rough pavement. She draped her arms on her shoulders, down her back, pulling her closer, embracing each other. She took that as a yes. The next evening, Rita and Maria stood at the entrance to her school. 'Good luck, beautiful. Don't feel any pressure that I'm watching.' Rita whispered to her, caressing her smooth cheek and kissing her lip's several times, not wanting them to part. 'I will try best.' Maria replied, whispering back and stroking through her locks of light purple hair. She ran inside backstage, as Rita took her place amongst the many other people sitting down on the provided seats in the school's large gym. The lights were dimmed, and colorful, vibrant lights were placed at the side of the stage to add effect and vibrance to the dancer's routine. She sat with her hands closed on her lap. The audience had to wait several minutes until the dancers were changed into their costumers and ready to perform. While waiting, she couldn't help but dream of into a fantasize. She imaged her future with Maria quite frequently, and tried to pick special dates on which to place things. She wanted to ask her, ask her a life-changing question; but she didn't think she hand the guts too. She loved Maria terribly, more than she could ever describe in words to her. But what if she rejected her with one simple, yet impossibly hard question. She thought it was too early to be asking this just yet. A few minutes passed by, this felt like an hour to Rita. She wanted to see her little girl dance; as she knew she was so passionate about it. Finally, a tall, slender woman wearing a long, dark blue dress entered the room, walking onto the stage. The white spotlights' focused on her, as she held a microphone in her hands. 'Attention, please!' She announced into the crowd. 'As the group's dance teacher; I am proud to welcome onto the stage, ten amazing, beautiful and talented girls who have a passion for dance! Would you please put your hands together for our school's dance team!' Shrieks of chanting and applauds echoed through-out the wide room. The ten girls' walked through the red, draped curtains and onto the stage, wearing grey, baggy trackies and slim, coloured shirts. Each girl had a different colour shirt, and Maria had a purple one to match her skirt on normal days. They all also had matching, coloured caps. Rita's eyes focused on Maria straight away, Maria made eye-contact with Rita, and they both traded wide smiles. Maria looked confident, but inside she felt butterflies in her stomach, in case she messed up, and Rita saw how terrible she was. She began to have second thoughts, but she tried to regain her confidence. Music began to play loudly, and the ten young girls' starting to dance with perfect timing and symmetrical pattern, sometimes changing into free-style, yet still perfect timing. All girls including outstanding attitude in their actions and bold movements. Maria was up front, so it was clear for Rita to see her performance. She was outstanded by how amazing she was; she'd never seen her dance before, apart from when she was younger and use to try and dance. She also occasionally asked Rita to dance with her. After around ten minutes, the routine ended with again echoes of applauses and cheers. Rita stood on her feet with the crowd and clapped too, being proud of her little Maria. Maria took a microphone from one of the teachers next to the stage, and walked to the centre with the group behind her. 'I would like to thank you all for coming, to see us perform!' Maria announced, with a confident voice. More applauses and cheers yelled out from the crowd, Maria laughed lightly at how amazed the crowd were and how supportive, and then she felt her eyes lock onto Rita's. She shared a sweet smile with her, one of her 'famous' smiles to Rita. 'And I'd like to thank my…' She hesitated, in-case Rita would dislike what she was about to say. 'G-Girlfriend… For coming to see my performance.' She blushed massively, and the crowd let out many whistles, and her friends in the audience called out chants like 'Maria's in love!' and other cocky comments. Maria again laughed, and her face turned red. One of her group-mates snatched the microphone from Maria's hand and spoke into the crowd; 'C'mon, mystery girl. Come to your girlfriend.' She said playfully, more whistles echoed from the crowd and the girl showed a sneaky smile. Maria laughed and shouted playfully at her, and turned back around to face the audience, only to find Rita standing in front of her. The crowd wouldn't stop whistling, and all the teenagers chanted; ''Kiss her, kiss her!'' repeatedly. Rita smirked, but before she could go to kiss Maria herself, Maria already threw her arms around her neck and smashed her lip's into her, leading into a long, passionate kiss. Many cheers were thrown out of the crowd (mostly men), and Rita and Maria smiled against each other's lips. It came to the weekend again, when Maria would stay at Rita's. It turned early Saturday morning; 1:30am to be persist. Maria and Rita were cuddled up in bed with the dark blue, chunky bedcover wrapped around their bodies. Maria's back was to Rita's chest, and her arms were wrapped around her body, resting on her soft skin on her flat belly. Maria was wearing some pajamas shorts and one of Rita's warm shirts, which she loved to wear. Rita was in her boxers and pajama bottoms, both sound asleep in a peaceful slumber; or so they thought. Maria started to twist and turn in her sleep, murmuring the words: 'No, no! Get away from me!' She repeated these words, getting louder and louder. Rita awoke from her sleep with the tossing and turning from Maria, and the words she was speaking. She began to worry and sat up, leaning over her body, shaking her shoulders. 'Maria! Maria! Wake up, you're having a nightmare!' Maria was still lost in her horrific dream, and began to shout Rita's name. 'Rita, Rita! Please save me, please! Where are you?!'' Rita frowned, shocked. 'Maria, Maria! I'm here! I'm here with you, I promise! Wake up, please!' She began to feel little tears build up in her eyes and begin to fall down her cheek. Maria woke up suddenly with a startle, and sat up in shock. She felt the sweat on her head and around her body. She pulled her knees up to her chest and hid her head in knees, crying of such scared-ness from her nightmare. Rita immediately wrapped her arms around Maria’s body and pulled her shaking body in her knees, stroking the hair from her face and caressing her cheek with such gentle-ness. 'Maria, calm down. Calm down beautiful, everything's alright…I'm here, I promise. No one is going to get you.' Rita didn't understand her dream, but she had a faint idea. She decided this wasn't the time to be asking what the dream was about just yet. Maria kept shaking in fear and crying from the shock that came to her. Rita hugged her closely all the time, trying to comfort her. About thirty minutes later; Maria calmed down enough to regroup herself explain what happened in her slumber. 'W…We were at the Carnival again.' Maria stuttered, being cursed with such frightful memories again; from both her dream and their past. 'Five DreamCasters began to crawl towards me from their boxes; a book shelf fell on my leg so I couldn't escape… I saw you, lying on the other-side of the room, with Ganzalo stabbing you repeatedly with his dagger...' Maria felt several tears fall down her cheek and Rita straight away wiped them with her thumb from her soft skin. 'It was all a dream, baby. I promise you that it's not real. I'm here, were not in the carnival anymore, I promise you.' Rita just wanted to assure Maria that she was safe in her arms, safe with her. She held her closer to her warm chest and stroked strands of hair in front of her face behind her ear. Maria let a small smile appear, knowing she was safe in her arms. Rita was all she needed. Rita woke up quite late the same morning, with Maria cuddled up to her arm chest, with a cute smile on her face. Rita was glad she felt safe in her arms. She felt so lucky to have a girl like Maria… Rita carefully let Maria slide from her arms onto the pillow. She stood up carefully, hoping not to make any sudden noise to awake her. She brought the warm bedcover up to her shoulders and leaned over her body, kissing her head. She smiled and walked out the room into the kitchen, making her breakfast as she always would. Within five minutes of Rita leaving her girlfriend in her bed, Maria awoke realizing she had disappeared. She immediately knew where she would be, and the smell of cooking egg's filled Rita's small apartment. She carefully climbed out of the comfortable bed and slipped on her slippers and dressing robe, which was hanging on the hook at the back of the dark, brown wooden door. Maria would always leave her clothing and items at Rita's apartment, instead of bringing them every time she came. She spent most of her time at Rita's anyway. Meanwhile in the kitchen, Rita was thinking through several things stuck in her head. She had so much time to fantasize their future in the years; she'd always contemplated on how she would begin such ideas'. The question that would change both their lives forever would also burn in her head; still thinking it was way too early for her to pop such a strong question in front of her beautiful lady. But she wanted to try something with her before this time came…Something she hoped would bring them ever closer, and fulfill her need for this amazing girl to become her, forever. Maria sneaked up behind Rita in surprise to her. She didn't attempt to scare her, but wrapped her arms around her slender waist. Rita had a well-built body from what Maria could see when she wore tank top; and there was the occasional warm nights she would be shirtless, but she never got a good look at her chest. Rita smiled and tried to relax her head from the many questions that stained her head. She let out a sigh of relief when she finally focused on the egg's in the frying pan. 'Rita, are you okay?' Maria whispered lightly, noticing her sigh of relief. 'Yeah,uhm…I'm just thinking. It's nothing to worry about.' Rita let out a slight laughter, but tried to reassure Maria nothing was wrong. Maria trusted Rita, and smiled widely. Moments' later when the egg's had finished cooking and the toast was toasted, Maria and Rita shared their breakfast together, cuddled up on the sofa. Later that day; Maria had also many thoughts in her mind about several things, involving Rita. She wanted to ask Rita something, but she was scared of her rejecting her question. She found it in herself to build up the confidence to ask her. 'R-Rita?' She hesitated, turning her head in her direction; still cuddled up on the sofa, with the gorgeous, orange colored fire blazing, spreading the warmth around the room and the light of the TV lighting up the room. 'Yes, my darling?' Rita said with such a formal tone. 'W-Would, you-' Maria still hesitated, Rita noticed. 'Don't be scared to ask, Maria. You know you can ask me anything.' Rita whispered, pouting her lips and pressing them to her forehead. Maria tried to begin her sentence again. 'I wondered if…You would, take a shower. With me.' Rita's faced turned to so shock, but a pleasant kind of shock. 'R-Really?' Rita replied, hesitating herself. 'I-If you don't want to that's-' Maria's sentence was cut off by the sensation of Rita's soft lip's touching her pale ones. 'I would love to.' Rita whispered against her soft lip's, smiling widely in surprise. Maria smiled with excitement, and again had many thoughts rushing through her head. [Darkangelsmg3: In post edit, I erased this ENTIRE scene because of a ‘certain type’ of inappropriateness. Sorry about that, Insanity1, but this isn’t Fifty Shades of Gray. O_O] For many days; Maria would visit her apartment every day after school and stay on the weekends. They would get lost in each other pretty often in the sensation of the feelings they felt. They were addicted to it. The countless nights and mornings they enjoyed each other were perfect. Rita thought everyday about that burning question which almost haunted her head every day. She still didn't know when the right time was to ask her…But she knew whenever it was; It would be special. Apart from this single question; Rita had also been thinking about something else. She asked herself when she would ask Maria to move in with her. She is nearly a seventeen year old teen; she didn't want to put any pressure on her. She accepted the fact her apartment wasn't as near as big as her home currently, but she also understood that Maria loved the warmth and the comfort of her small apartment, and Maria spent near enough all of her time there. It was a Saturday; one day before Maria's birthday. Rita wanted to plan something special for Maria; she deserved to be treated and spoiled. Maria was cuddled up with Rita in front of the fireplace, sitting on a blanket and pillows surrounding them. It was a cold, winter evening. As snow slowly fell against Rita's window. It was a beautiful scene for just to be cuddled with each other in-front of a blazing, orange fire. Maria watched the flames rise and sink, and change to many different shades of orange. Rita stroked her smooth hair gently with her fingers. Every moment they both treasured. 'Maria.' Rita whispered; staring into her consuming, crimson eyes. 'Yes, Rita?' Maria smiled; wondering what was on her mind. Rita scratched the back of her neck, thinking how to ask her. 'I don't know if it's too early to ask but-' She hesitated, she wanted Maria to live with her. She wanted to wake up every morning to see her beautiful face next to her in bed. Maria leaned closer, listening in as she let Rita take her time to ask. 'If you don't want too, that's OK…But I wanted to ask if you'd...' She paused, and took a deep breath. 'If you'd move in with me. I know my apartment's not much bu-' She was cut off by Maria's shouting: 'Rita!' She yelled; pushing her down on the blanket and her head rested on the pillows around them. She laughed and whispered. 'I would love to move in with you; and your apartment is perfect, for us.' Rita felt her lips curve up into a smile. She was surprised she'd accept such an offer. 'Would your parents allow it?' Rita asked curiously. 'I'd have to ask them; but I’m positive they wouldn't mind!' Maria answered, smiling widely at Rita. 'I will ask them. It's my apartment you're moving into, and I'm the one responsible for asking such things for their precious daughter.' Maria loved it when Rita said things like that. She felt so special being called ''precious.'' Maria moved quite strongly against Rita's body, enjoying each other's lost kisses, until a few moments later their make-out scene was interrupted; by Maria's phone ringtone. She slowly jumped up from Rita and walked over to the maroon, wooden table next to the sofa where her phone lay. Rita sat up with a confused expression of her face; wondering who would call her at 6pm. Maria answered with a formal phone voice. 'Hello?' She asked, forgetting to read the number of who called her. Silly Maria. It was Siren. 'Maria! Darling! I'm sorry I'm calling you at a latish hour. Me and Rick were out at Dave and Busters…' The Siren said over the phone. Maria bit her lower lip so she didn't laugh. She knew they were out buying birthday presents for her, even at seventeen. She put her phone on loud speaker so Rita could hear. 'But I was wondering if you'd slept here tonight; for your birthday morning! Rita can stay too, if she wishes!' Maria's mother added. Rita smirked. Maria looked at Rita for her approval, and she nodded her head. She gave her a famous smile and blew a kiss to her sweetly. 'Okay Squire! I will be there in thirty minutes with Rita! Love you!' Maria answered, ending the call. Rita raised an eyebrow. 'I've never slept at your house before.' Rita smirked; standing up to hug Maria. Maria hugged her willingly back, wrapping her gentle arms around Rita’s waist; lying her head on her warm chest. 'Well if you are sure you want to stay at my house, you can.' She replied, smiling widely. 'It's my perfect opportunity to ask your parents if you can move in with me.' Maria got excited like a child, she wanted to know her parents answer straight away. Rita helped Maria with her coat after grabbing her bag with a few things like clothes, toothbrush, etc.; and walked out into the gentle snow falling down from the sky, hand-in-hand. Maria and Rita woke up in a large, white room, with red roses blooming patterns on the walls. They were in Maria's room after her parents welcomed Rita to their home the previous night. Maria always loved roses, and she had this amazing wall-effect in her bedroom for as long as she can remember. They had to press pause on their 'love-life' for that night. They didn't want Siren to hear anything… Maria woke up in Rita's warm arms bright and early in the morning, as the light outside shone through the rich, red draping curtains. Rita smiled widely at the sight of Maria waking up. ''She's so cute.'' She thought to herself; feeling her mouth curve-up even more. She had not yet asked Siren or Dark for permission for their friend to move in with her. 'Happy birthday, princess.' Rita whispered into Maria's ear; stroking her soft, brown hair behind her head gently with her hand and occasionally running her fingers through it to. Maria smiled widely and snuggled up into her neck. 'Thank you, beautiful.' She whispered. Maria climbed out of the bed wearing a long pajama top and pajama shorts. The top was white and the shorts were a beautiful rosy-red color. Rita was wearing black pajama bottoms and grey boxers. As Maria walked over to her wardrobe; Rita couldn't help but lock her eyes on her body. She smirked; she was just so beautiful to her. That morning Maria and Rita settled onto the leather, brown sofa in Maria's rather large living room with their backs laying on cream pillows. Maria's friend sat on the other sofa in the room and shared their birthday wishes and gifts with Maria. She received items like; perfume, nail polish, new clothes and dresses. While she opened her gifts, Rita whispered in her ear: 'You will receive your present later,' while kissing her cheek. 'My little girl has grown up so fast.' The Siren announced; pulling Maria into her arms and hugging her tightly. 'Squire, I can't breathe.' Maria murmured, letting out a little laugh. Her friend chuckled too. 'Oh, I'm sorry, Maria.' They both smiled. Maria hugged Siren and thanked him gratefully for the birthday wishes and presents she had received. While Maria went to the bathroom; Rita found her chance to ask Siren about Maria moving into her apartment; 'Uhm- Siren...' They were gathered in the kitchen; Siren smiled at Rita; 'Yes, Rita?' Siren replied, looking curious. 'Well- I wanted to ask for your permission of something.' Rita explained; making eye contact with The Siren as best as she could. She was so worried inside of their rejection, knowing if they did not agree, it would be very awkward. 'It was about if you'd give your beautiful friend permission to move in my apartment. I have already asked her, and she was happy with the idea. But I felt like I needed agreement from her gaurdian.' Rita added, attempting to still make eye contact, with a smile on her face, even though she felt shaky. Siren smiled with glee and nodded. His precious friend was growing up so quickly, and now she was seventeen; he knew she would be in good care with Rita. He had always loved Rita for her; she had been such a role-model for Maria for three years. Also, Rita was always so polite. 'Of course! Rita, you have been such an amazing friend to Maria over the many years I give you full permission for Maria to move in with you. It's going to be weird with her not living under the same roof as me anymore, though.' Rita felt a wide smile appear of her face. They gave her permission! She thought. Rita thought about something else she could ask Siren… But was this the right time? 'Oh- and uh… Squire?; there was something else I would like to ask your permission for.' Later that day, when Maria and Rita had returned to know what was their home; Rita helped Maria with her bags of luggage which she had packed from her bedroom; everything else that she hadn't brought to Rita's house. She was grateful to spend her last night in her childhood home with Rita. Maria ran into Rita's arms and kissed her so strongly yet passionate; they were finally living with each other. They were both so happy. 'Make yourself at home.' Rita winked at Maria. She stuck her tongue out back at her. 'You best put that tongue back in your mouth before I come and bite it off.' Rita joked, laughing. Maria laughed too. Maria went into her bedroom; unpacking her items; her clothes in some free drawers Rita had not used and her toiletries in a cupboard in the bathroom. Rita paced back and forth in the living room. How was she going to ask this? It was a special day for Maria; it was her birthday; she needed to make this special. She scratched the back of her neck and ran her fingers in her light red locks. C'mon Rita, Think! She thought to herself. Then she remembered something from her childhood. There's that place close to the meadow… She smiled, thinking that was the perfect scene to ask her such a question. She had so many years to fantasize; she'd never actually thought of the place to ask her. Maria came into the living room, wiping her head from the exhaustion. 'Maria, you should take a rest! Leave the unpacking for later.' Rita smiled, walking closer to her and holding her cheek, leaning down to kiss her perfect, tender lips. 'Get some fresh air; go stand outside for a while.' She added; gently stroking through her hair. 'I promise I will carry on with your unpacking.' Maria smiled gratefully and kissed her again and again; not wanting their lips to part; then walked outside to get some fresh air. Now was Rita's opportunity. She rushed into the bathroom after pulling out her clothes in her wardrobe; dressing her and grooming her hair back so it looked smart. She wore a red bowtie with her clothes; underneath a white buttoned shirt. She also included the pen Maria gave her three years ago in her small pocket on the suit blazer. Inside; she was so worried Maria’s would reject this question…After all, she had doubts it was too early for her… She wrote a small note on a piece of paper and laid it on her large bed on the dark blue sheets. She left a beautiful, magenta rose on the bed next to the note. Magenta; our colors combined together. She thought. Rita also in her free time while Maria was at school, gone out to the high-street to find Maria a beautiful dress for her to wear. It was white, with beautiful purple rose patterns covering it. It wasn't over crowded with roses, it was just perfect. As Maria came back into her apartment into the kitchen to get herself a refreshing drink; Rita took her chance to sneak out of the apartment. After several minutes; Maria walked back into the living room, seeing a trail of rose petals on the floor. 'Rita?' She called, smiling at the trail she left. She followed it into the bedroom and saw the piece of paper on the bed, lying with a fabulous purple rose. Her expression changed to confused. She picked up the note in her delicate hands and read; it said: 'Maria, just follow the rose petals, okay? Trust me. I left one birthday present for you, but I hope you will like your birthday present xxx' Maria felt such an idiotic smile appear on her face as she just stood there smiling. She began to gain butterflies in her stomach and her body trembling with excitement. Just what was Rita planning? Maria turned her head to look at the beautiful dress that lay next to the purple rose. She was stunned. Who knew Rita had a sense in fashion? She laughed and picked up the stunning dress delicately. She walked up to the mirror and held the dress against her body. It was perfect, and suited her outstandingly. Moments later after dressing into the dress Rita brought her for her birthday; she let her soft, brown hair straight and placed some light make-up on her face, not too much. Maria walked back into the bedroom and opened her satchel. Lying inside was the beautiful, purple rose broach Rita gave to her eight years ago now. She would take it anywhere with her. She clipped the broach onto her dress and placed the purple rose in her smooth hair; and began to follow the rose petals. Rita meanwhile' felt sweat build up on her face. She was panicking so badly. She twisted the small box in her jacket pocket which contained something to small but yet, so big. After ten minutes of following; Maria arrived in their meadow. She continued to follow to rose petals; leading her into a group of tree's. Leaves fell around Maria onto the short, green grass. The rose petals stopped; Maria lifted her head up to see a field under the canopy of the trees. The field contained many purple roses on the ground, and the air smelt of lavender from the few lavender flowers dotted around the field. Her body began to tremble as she caught her eyes on someone so important and so beautiful, Rita. She was outstanding in her wearing a formal suit with a matching red bowtie to her dress, and the roses for that matter. Her mouth curved up into a wide smile; she looked so dashing in her suit, she'd never seen her wear one before. As for Rita; she thought Maria looked stunning. The dress suited her incredibly and her hair looked so beautiful with the purple rose placed at the top of her hair. The beautiful smile which showed on her face made Rita's heart skip a beat. She felt so in-love with her, she felt so lucky to have a girl like Maria. Rita reached her hand out for Maria to come to her. Maria carefully walked over to Rita with gentle steps. Their smiles showed how happy they were. 'So what are you planning?' Maria asked curiously, smiling sweetly and raising one eyebrow. Rita tipped her nose with her finger. She in-haled a deep breath. 'Maria; you do not know how much you mean to me…For three years now, I've been hiding my deep, burning love for you. Since the day I met you; you clung onto my heart and never left my mind.' Rita said with such a kind voice. She paused for a moment. Maria already felt tears form in her eyes and her whole body trembling; she couldn't control the speed of her heart. 'I'd jump in front of a bullet for you, Maria. I will do anything for my girl to be happy, and smile. I promise; to be all that you want…And after asking The Siren’s permission-' Rita paused again, as she knelt down on one knee and reached into her pocket; pulling out a black box. Maria stood in shock, knowing what was coming next. She never expected this- She never expected this in a million years. Her hands trailed up to her mouth as they trembled over her lips; her eyes widened as she bit her lower lip from letting out the screams. Rita opened the box, revealing a beautiful silver ring, including three, amazing jewels. The left one red, the right one purple, and the middle one a magenta rose. 'Maria Edims; will you marry me?' Maria stood in shock still, frozen like a statue. Her fingertips trembled over her lips as she felt the excitement and happiness build up inside of her. Inside Rita; she was hoping it wasn't too early, as the expression on Maria's face didn't show anything. She looked surprised and trembling to her; it could go either way. A few seconds past as Maria took the question in and tried to make sense of her own thoughts; until she finally let the screams out: 'Rita! Oh my god; Yes! I will marry you!' Rita's eyes two widened then, her smile grew and she stood up quickly as Maria ran to her and jumped into her arms. Maria hugged her so tightly. Rita's arms were wrapped around Maria's body holding her so close to her, pulling her into an embrace. They both closed their eyes as they felt tears of happiness run down their cheeks. Maria buried her head in Rita's neck. 'Oh, Maria; I will love you endlessly.' Rita whispered into her ear, softly kissing her forehead. Maria lifted her head up and kissed Rita's soft lips ever so gently. Both their eyes were still closed as they repeatedly kissed each other with passion and romance. She said yes. Rita thought to herself. She said yes.
