10/31: Message

“Ahh, finally!” I stretch my legs, now that I was finally able to use them normally again, “No more crutches, I can use the ol’ leggies all over again!”

“Yes, it is a relief,” Ery echoes me as he sets down our stuff in our room, “But still, do be careful, Lushiyo.”

“Don’t worry, don’t worry,” I reassure him, coming behind him and wrapping my arms around his waist, “I will, baby. I don’t mind taking it slow for a bit.”

Laughing, Ery turns around and kisses me on the lips, “We must do more to make up for your incapacitation period.”

“Well, hey,” I grin, “Those collars are still good you know; and I think it’s about time you got the chance to wear yours, too~”

“Then,” his voice lowers, clearly eager for this, too, “If you leave me a moment to prepare and send the dogs outside, I will take you up on that proposal.”

“Go right ahead~” I purr, watching him head downstairs. As I’m waiting for him, I notice there’s an empty chest on shelf with the dog toys, my hunting pendant, and the candles Ery bought for the two of us.

I spot one of the small pieces of paper we used to make the bulletin board list that is currently hanging on the wall across from the shelf. I’ve never been a writer, but something came over me. I take the piece of paper, and begin scribbling down:

To anyone who reads this,

My name is Lucio (AKA Count Lucio). I once went by the name Montague Montagesson, and I once nearly ended the world because I used to be selfish.

But I’m no longer that person anymore, and I’ve never been happier with my life than now. I have a loving boyfriend, maybe one day he’ll be my husband, two dogs, and a giant fish at The Palace.

Maybe it’s not “big,” but it’s something that feels big and I’m not looking back.

Thank you for everything, Ery. I would have never felt any of this without you.

-Lucio

″Lushiyo?” Ery calls from the bathroom as I seal the piece of paper inside the small chest. “Are you ready?”

I step back, feeling pleased before heading over to our bedroom, “Born ready, tiger~ now c’mere!”