Moonlit

Chapter Two: Blood Banks and Ice Cream.

After the previous night’s embarrassment, much to Aria’s chagrin, she had to move past it. Because she promised Halo A-positive blood after all.

Like a zombie, Aria gets ready. Putting on… simple clothes. A sweatshirt and some pajama pants. She is not a morning person. And of course, like a mocking message, Halo looks gorgeous as always.

-“How do you do that? I look like a damn raccoon with an alcohol problem.” Aria grumbles, though it’s lighthearted rather than jealous.

-“Uhh, genetics? Vampire blood, baby. It works magic.” Halo replies, a little awkwardly. Sensing the awkwardness Aria decides to switch gears.

-“Damn, wish my mom had stronger genes then. Uhm, let’s get to the blood bank, I wanna go back to bed.” She says with a yawn akin to that of a puppy’s.

They head out, and as many college students do, they rely on public transport. Cause it’s cheap and Aria’s hippie ass can’t handle the thought of buying a car. Not that she has a driver’s license in the first place.

The ride is cramped and reeks of body odor. Thankfully Aria’s height spares her from direct hits of BO… unlike Halo, who’s damn near dry-heaving because her nose is disgustingly close to a man’s armpit.

Aria pulls her closer, silent but steady. Keeping her close. Halo leans a little closer, smelling hints of vanilla and sandalwood and something… uniquely Aria. But before she could comment, they arrive to their destination.

Walking off of the bus, they head inside to the blood bank and pick up some unused blood for Halo, who’s eyes sparkle with joy, her fangs already sinking into a blood bag and sucking it dry. Like a toddler with a juice pouch.

-“You’re so real for that. It’s like me with grape juice.” Aria remarks with a solemn nod, as if passing down ancient wisdom. Causing Halo to burst out laughing, the sound like a birdsong to Aria’s ears.

-“Okay come on before you end up laughing the blood out of your nose gal. Can’t have a repeat of the cereal incident right?” Aria recounts with a shudder, vividly remembering the burning sensation of milk going up her nose for laughing too hard while eating.

They leave the blood bank and decide to take advantage of the good weather. Getting ice cream from a nearby shop and walking around the small town.

-“Ooh I never knew they sold pianos here.” Halo’s voice rings out as they pass the music shop. Stopping to window shop.

-“Do you play?”

-“Yeah when I was little. My parents were vehement about me learning it, said it’ll improve my focus or something.”

-“Ah it’s like how my mom signed me up for judo because I kicked a guy in the nuts. Told me to ‘express your anger in a constructive way’. Like hello? Now I get to beat up people for sport.”

Halo laughs, how can Aria be so funny like this, she wonders.

-“Maybe you can teach me some moves.”

Aria smiles.

-“Don’t threaten me with a good time.”