Archive of Our Own ^beta

The hotel bar hummed with energy, a warm current of pulsing music and laughter weaving through the air. Galinda Upland sat at the far end of the bar, tucked into the shadows, her posture carefully composed despite her efforts to go unnoticed. She wore a sleek, fitted black dress, understated but impeccable, the kind of thing that whispered elegance without screaming for attention. Her golden hair was pinned loosely at the nape of her neck, and though her appearance was deliberately toned down, it was impossible not to notice the way she carried herself.

She had already deflected three men tonight. Their eager smiles and obvious lines fell flat against her polite but firm refusals. A flick of her wrist, a disarming smile, and they moved on, muttering to themselves.

She didn’t need company. At least, not theirs.

Elphaba Thropp had been watching from her perch across the room, sipping her whiskey, her blazer draped casually over her chair. She wasn’t sure if she should go out, but tonight, she was glad she’d come. The blonde at the end of the bar had caught her attention the moment she walked in. Stunning didn’t quite cover it. There was an elegance to her that didn’t come off as fragile, more like precision. She was poised, yes, but also guarded, as though she was holding her breath and waiting for someone to call her out.

It intrigued Elphaba. Watching her brush off three men without so much as a flinch sealed the deal.

Elphaba waited, letting the moment ripen. She noticed how the blonde’s fingers hovered around her glass, how her gaze lingered on the bar’s back mirror like she was scanning for exits. When Galinda raised her drink for a small sip, Elphaba made her move.

Sliding into the empty seat next to her, Elphaba caught the bartender’s eye and gestured for another whiskey. She let the silence sit, her presence designed to be felt rather than announced.

“I saw you turn down three drinks in a row,” Elphaba said finally, her voice low and teasing. “What would you do if I offered you one?”

Galinda stiffened for a fraction of a second, her fingers tightening on her glass. Her brown eyes darted to Elphaba, sharp and calculating. It was clear she was on edge, as if expecting something.

When Elphaba didn’t falter, Galinda’s gaze softened ever so slightly. “That depends,” she said, her voice smooth but cautious. “Are you just here to buy me a drink, or do you have something better in mind?”

Elphaba smirked, leaning one elbow against the bar. “I don’t do half measures. If I’m offering you a drink, it’s because I plan to make sure you enjoy it.”

Galinda studied her for a moment, her eyes narrowing slightly as though searching for some hidden motive. Finally, she tilted her head, her lips curving into a faint, almost reluctant smile. “You’re confident, aren’t you?”

“Only when I’ve got a good feeling,” Elphaba replied, her tone easy but deliberate. She extended a hand, the gesture as casual as it was intentional. “Elphaba.”

Galinda hesitated, her fingers brushing against her glass as she processed the introduction. Then, as though making a calculated decision, she slipped her hand into Elphaba’s. “Galinda.”

Elphaba’s expression didn’t flicker. There were no raised eyebrows and no sudden spark of recognition. She simply held Galinda’s gaze with an intensity that made her feel exposed in an entirely different way.

“Nice to meet you, Galinda,” Elphaba said, releasing her hand and settling back into her seat as though nothing about the exchange had shifted.

Galinda waited, her chest tightening slightly as silence stretched between them. It wasn’t unusual for people to recognise her name, to follow it with wide eyes or an overly eager compliment. She braced herself for it, but when Elphaba simply nodded toward the bartender to order another drink, Galinda’s breath hitched in quiet relief.

“You don’t…” she started, her voice faltering before she steadied it. “You don’t recognise me?”

Elphaba tilted her head, her brow furrowing slightly. “Should I?”

The bluntness of the response startled a soft laugh out of Galinda. It was rare, the sensation of being truly anonymous. For once, she wasn’t Galinda Upland, the famous actress; she was just a woman at a bar, having a conversation with someone who wasn’t trying to impress her or leverage her fame.

“No,” Galinda said, her voice lighter now, as if a weight had been lifted. “I suppose not.”

Elphaba leaned against the bar, her green eyes studying Galinda with quiet curiosity. 

Galinda laughed again, the sound warmer this time. “Alright, Elphaba,” she said, her tension beginning to melt away. “You’ve earned yourself a shot. Impress me.”

Elphaba ordered two whiskeys, sliding one toward Galinda when they arrived. “No wine,” she said, glancing pointedly at Galinda’s barely touched glass. “Something tells me you could use a change of pace.”

Galinda tilted her head, her curiosity deepening as she reached for the glass. “Bold,” she murmured, taking a small sip. The warmth spread through her chest, and she found herself wondering, despite herself, how this stranger had managed to disarm her so completely.

The conversation flowed easily after that, their banter laced with wit and just enough flirtation to keep the tension simmering. Elphaba was clever and sharp, her dry humour keeping Galinda on her toes. And yet, there was something about her that felt grounded, authentic in a way Galinda rarely encountered. She was used to people who fawned over her, who tried too hard to impress her, but Elphaba didn’t seem to be trying at all.

As the night wore on, Galinda found herself inching closer, the space between them shrinking with each passing minute. When the music shifted to a slower, sultrier beat, Elphaba set her empty glass down and extended her hand.

“Dance with me,” she said, her voice soft but commanding.

Galinda hesitated, glancing around the bar. It wasn’t crowded, but there were enough people to make her wary. But then her gaze landed on Elphaba, and something about the way she looked at her, steady and unyielding, made Galinda take the offered hand.

“Lead the way,” she said, letting herself be pulled toward the dance floor.

For the first time that night, she forgot to worry about who might be watching.

The moment they hit the floor, Elphaba’s hands found Galinda’s waist, pulling her close. Their bodies moved in perfect rhythm, each shift and sway a wordless conversation. Galinda looped her arms around Elphaba’s neck, her fingers brushing against the smooth skin just beneath her hairline.

“I have to admit,” Galinda murmured, her lips close to Elphaba’s ear, “you’re very good at this.”

Elphaba chuckled, her hands tightening on Galinda’s hips. “I’m good at a lot of things.”

The air between them was electric, the heat building as their movements grew slower, more intimate. Elphaba’s eyes never left Galinda’s, her gaze burning with a quiet intensity. The way she moved, smooth, deliberate, left Galinda breathless.

Galinda tilted her head up, her lips dangerously close to Elphaba’s. “You’re trouble, aren’t you?” she whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

Elphaba leaned down, her lips brushing the corner of Galinda’s mouth in the faintest of touches. “Only if you want me to be.”

It was all the invitation Galinda needed. She closed the distance between them, capturing Elphaba’s lips in a kiss that was soft at first but quickly deepened. Elphaba responded with equal fervour, her hands roaming Galinda’s back as their lips moved together in perfect sync.

The kiss was everything; hot, dizzying, and impossible to resist. Galinda’s fingers tangled in Elphaba’s hair, pulling her closer, while Elphaba’s hands explored the curve of her waist.

Galinda’s breath hitched when Elphaba leaned in, her lips brushing the shell of her ear. “I want to taste you,” Elphaba whispered, her voice thick with desire.

Galinda’s heart thundered in her chest, and for a moment, she couldn’t breathe. Then, with a boldness she didn’t know she had, she grabbed Elphaba’s hand and tugged her toward the elevator.

They barely made it into Galinda’s room before their hands were on each other again.

Elphaba pressed Galinda against the wall, her lips trailing down her neck as Galinda gasped, her hands clutching at Elphaba’s blazer. “Bed,” Galinda managed to whisper, her voice breathless.

Elphaba chuckled, letting the blonde lead the way. Galinda gasped as Elphaba pushed her down to lay on the bed, and climbed over her. Their bodies pressed together, lips finding each other again.

Elphaba’s lips moved lower, a trail of kisses pressing against Galinda’s neck, her collarbone, and the curve of her shoulder. Her hands roamed Galinda’s body with deliberate intent, fingers brushing against soft skin, igniting shivers everywhere they touched. She was calm, steady, and entirely in control, savouring every gasp and arch from the woman beneath her.

Galinda squirmed, her breaths coming faster, but Elphaba pinned her hips down with a firm grip. “Be still,” she murmured, her voice rich and low, the command sending a fresh wave of heat through Galinda. “I told you, patience.”

“Elphaba,” Galinda whimpered, her voice trembling, half-pleading, half-frustrated.

Elphaba only smirked, her dark green eyes flicking up to meet Galinda’s. “Trust me,” she said, her voice dropping even lower, smooth and sure. Without breaking her gaze, she shifted lower, her lips skimming Galinda’s stomach, then the curve of her hip.

Galinda’s breath hitched, her fingers gripping the sheets tightly as she felt Elphaba’s warm breath against her skin. Elphaba moved deliberately, her hands guiding Galinda’s thighs apart as her kisses trailed lower.

When Elphaba’s lips finally touched her, Galinda let out a sharp, broken gasp, her back arching off the bed. The sensation was overwhelming, a perfect combination of softness and intensity. Elphaba didn’t hesitate, her movements confident, as though she already knew exactly what Galinda needed, what would undo her completely.

Galinda’s fingers tangled in Elphaba’s dark hair, pulling her closer, her moans growing louder with every touch, every flick of Elphaba’s tongue. Elphaba responded with a low hum of satisfaction, the sound vibrating against Galinda’s skin and making her tremble.

“Elphaba, Oh” Galinda’s voice broke, her nails raking gently along Elphaba’s shoulders as the tension in her body built to a breaking point.

Elphaba didn’t let up, her pace deliberate and unrelenting, her hands gripping Galinda’s thighs to keep her steady as she unraveled beneath her. Galinda’s cries filled the room, her body arching one final time before she shattered, pleasure crashing over her in waves so powerful she thought she might never catch her breath.

Elphaba stayed with her through every moment, her movements slowing until Galinda’s body finally stilled. Then, she kissed her way back up, her lips brushing over Galinda’s stomach, her collarbone, her jaw, before capturing her lips again in a deep, languid kiss.

Galinda sighed into the kiss, her body still trembling slightly as her fingers caressed Elphaba’s face. She pulled back just enough to meet her gaze, her own eyes heavy-lidded and dazed. “You’re… unbelievable,” she whispered, her voice hoarse from her cries.

Elphaba smirked, brushing a strand of hair from Galinda’s flushed face. “I told you I’m good at a lot of things,” she said softly, her voice still laced with quiet confidence.

Galinda let out a breathless laugh, shaking her head slightly. “You’re impossible.”

Elphaba chuckled, settling beside her and pulling Galinda against her chest. “And you’re a pleasure,” she murmured, her lips brushing against Galinda’s temple.

They lay tangled together in the warm aftermath, Galinda’s head resting on Elphaba’s shoulder, their breaths slowly evening out. Elphaba’s hand stroked lazy circles on Galinda’s back, her gaze fixed on the ceiling as a small, satisfied smile played on her lips.

Galinda glanced up at her, her own smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. “So, what’s next?” she asked teasingly, her voice soft.

Elphaba smirked down at her, her hand sliding lower to rest against the curve of Galinda’s waist. “That depends,” she said, her tone almost predatory. “Can you handle another round?”

Galinda’s laugh turned into a gasp as Elphaba leaned in again, her lips finding hers with renewed fervour, proving that the night was far from over. She kissed Galinda deeply, taking her time as if to savour the moment. Her lips were soft but insistent, her tongue teasing just enough to coax a sigh of contentment from the blonde beneath her. When they finally parted, Galinda’s chest rose and fell heavily, her fingers trailing lightly over Elphaba’s jaw.

But instead of letting the moment settle, Galinda’s eyes gleamed with a sudden spark of determination. With a gentle push to Elphaba’s shoulder, she rolled them over, her body now draped over Elphaba’s.

Elphaba raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. “Taking charge now, are we?”

Galinda leaned down, her lips brushing against Elphaba’s in a soft kiss before she smirked. “You think you’re the only one who knows how to make someone feel good?”

Elphaba opened her mouth to respond, but her words caught in her throat as Galinda’s hand slid down, brushing along the smooth skin of her stomach before venturing lower. Her teasing smirk melted into something softer, more focused, as her fingers found their mark.

Elphaba’s breath hitched, her sharp green eyes fluttering shut as Galinda’s touch sent a wave of heat through her. “Alright,” Elphaba managed, her voice low and strained, “I’ll admit, I’m curious.”

Galinda laughed softly, pressing a kiss to Elphaba’s neck as her fingers moved with slow, deliberate precision. “I’ll make sure it’s worth your while,” she whispered, her voice filled with confidence now.

Elphaba groaned softly, her hands gripping the sheets as Galinda’s touch became more assured. She felt two fingers push inside her and her body start to rock against them. Galinda kept her movements steady, her fingers learning every little reaction, every quiet gasp and sharp inhale, drawing Elphaba deeper into the moment.

“I’m close,” Elphaba murmured, her voice strained and husky, her hands finding Galinda’s shoulders as she arched beneath her.

“I’ve got you,” Galinda whispered back, her lips brushing against Elphaba’s jaw. She kept her pace, her confidence growing with every shiver and tremble of the woman beneath her.

Elphaba’s control, so steady and unshakable in nearly every other situation, slipped completely under Galinda’s touch. Her breath grew ragged, her voice breaking as she finally shattered, her body trembling as waves of pleasure overtook her.

Galinda didn’t pull away immediately, her touch gentling as she guided Elphaba through the aftershocks. When Elphaba finally stilled, her breaths coming slow and deep, Galinda pressed a soft kiss to her lips, smiling as she settled beside her.

As the two of them lay tangled in the sheets, the room quiet except for their soft breathing, Galinda propped herself up on one elbow. Her fingers lazily played with the collar of Elphaba’s shirt, which was now discarded beside the bed.

“Wow,” Galinda said lightly, her voice still a little breathless.

“Yeah,” Elphaba replied, her green skin glowing faintly in the dim light as a small smirk played at her lips.

Galinda laughed softly, brushing her blonde hair out of her face. She hesitated for a moment, her fingers trailing absently across Elphaba’s shoulder, before adding, “I don’t usually do this, though.”

Elphaba arched a brow, her smirk widening. “Bring strangers from hotels back to your room, you mean?”

Galinda rolled her eyes but smiled anyway. “Something like that.” She leaned back onto the pillows, exhaling as she let the moment settle. “But tonight was… different.” Her gaze flicked toward Elphaba, a glint of something playful in her eyes. “You’re not like anyone else I’ve met before. You had this… confidence. I couldn’t help myself.”

Elphaba chuckled, her smirk softening into something more genuine. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”

“Don’t let it go to your head,” Galinda replied, smirking as she settled deeper into the pillows. “You just… caught me at the right moment.”

Elphaba hummed in agreement, shifting to lie more comfortably beside her. “Right moment or not, I’m glad you let me buy you that drink.”

Galinda smirked, glancing over at her. “I didn’t let you do anything. I could’ve walked away, you know.”

“Mm, sure,” Elphaba said, her voice teasing.

For a moment, they lay in silence, the warmth of the night settling between them. Galinda’s eyes fluttered shut, her body sinking into the bed. But when Elphaba began to shift, her movements slow as she reached for her discarded clothes, Galinda’s voice cut through the quiet.

“Hey,” Galinda murmured, her tone soft but deliberate. “You’re not leaving, are you?”

Elphaba paused, her hand hovering over her shirt. She turned slightly to look at Galinda, a flicker of surprise in her expression. “I wasn’t planning on sticking around, no,” she said, voice a little softer than usual.

Galinda’s eyes met hers, the quiet confidence still there but laced with something more vulnerable. “Stay.”

Elphaba regarded her for a moment, something unspoken passing between them. Then, with a slight chuckle, she dropped her shirt back onto the floor, the tension easing in her shoulders. “Alright, alright. I’ll stay. Just don’t make me regret it.”

Galinda smiled, her eyes already closing as she settled back into the warmth of the bed. “I won’t.”

Elphaba shifted back onto the bed, curling up beside Galinda once more. The room fell silent again, but this time, there was no urgency, no need to fill the space. It was just them, and for the first time all night, there was no rush.

The first rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting golden streaks across the hotel room. Galinda stirred, the unfamiliar warmth of another body beside her pulling her from the depths of sleep. She blinked groggily, her brown eyes landing on the mess of dark hair sprawled across the pillow next to her. For a moment, she froze, her breath catching in her throat.

The sheets were tangled around them, barely covering her. She shifted slightly, and the realisation that she was completely naked made her stomach tighten. Slowly, her gaze traveled over the curve of Elphaba’s back, her bare skin smooth and faintly glowing in the soft morning light. Elphaba lay on her side, one arm tucked beneath her head, the other resting loosely along her waist.

What have I done?

Galinda’s heart raced. Her mind scrambled through the events of the night before; the bar, the dance, the kiss, Elphaba’s hands on her body, her lips leaving her trembling. It had been thrilling, consuming, unlike anything Galinda had ever experienced. But now, in the clarity of daylight, reality was crashing down around her.

She sat up carefully, clutching the sheet to her chest as she slid out of bed. Her bare feet hit the plush carpet, and she grabbed the robe hanging on the back of the chair, wrapping it tightly around herself. Her fingers trembled as she tied the sash, her gaze flicking nervously toward the sleeping woman.

As though sensing her unease, Elphaba stirred, her green eyes fluttering open. She blinked a few times before her gaze settled on Galinda. A slow, lazy smile spread across her lips.

“Good morning,” Elphaba said, her voice husky from sleep.

Galinda hesitated, the edges of the robe twisting in her fingers. “Good morning,” she replied, her tone polite but guarded.

Elphaba propped herself up on one elbow, the sheet slipping slightly to reveal more of her bare shoulder and collarbone. Her dark hair fell messily around her face as she arched a brow. “You’re up early,” she observed, her voice carrying the faintest hint of teasing. “Running out on me already?”

Galinda flushed, the words striking closer to the truth than she cared to admit. “No, I just… I didn’t want to wake you.”

Elphaba tilted her head, her sharp green eyes studying Galinda with quiet curiosity. “You seem… tense,” she said, her voice gentle but probing. “Did I do something wrong?”

“No,” Galinda said quickly, shaking her head. “It’s not you. It’s just… this isn’t something I usually do.”

Elphaba’s lips curved into a smirk. “What, waking up in a hotel room with a stunning stranger?”

Despite herself, Galinda let out a small laugh, her cheeks tinged with pink. “Something like that.”

Elphaba pushed herself up, the sheets falling further as she leaned back against the headboard. She seemed completely at ease, her confidence unwavering even as she sat bare beneath the crumpled bedding. “Well, for what it’s worth, I had fun,” she said, her voice light but sincere. “And I don’t regret a second of it.”

Galinda’s chest tightened at the casual honesty in her tone. “I… I did too,” she admitted, her voice softer. “It’s just complicated.”

Elphaba frowned slightly, her curiosity deepening. “Complicated how?”

Galinda hesitated, her gaze dropping to the floor. She couldn’t bring herself to explain, to admit the truth of who she was and the kind of scrutiny that came with it. Instead, she forced a small smile and shook her head. “It doesn’t matter.”

Elphaba didn’t press further. Instead, she leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees as she studied Galinda with an intensity that made her stomach flip. “Hey,” she said softly. “Whatever’s going on in your head, just know you don’t have to figure it all out right now. Last night was… last night. No expectations, no strings. Okay?”

Galinda glanced at her, the knot in her chest loosening ever so slightly at the reassurance. “Okay,” she murmured.

Elphaba’s smirk returned, though it was gentler this time. “Besides,” she added, her voice teasing, “you could do worse than me for your first one-night stand.”

Galinda laughed despite herself, the sound breaking through some of the lingering tension. “You’re insufferable,” she said, though there was no real bite in her words.

Elphaba grinned, standing and stretching languidly before reaching for her discarded clothes. Galinda quickly averted her gaze, her cheeks burning as Elphaba pulled on her shirt and pants with casual ease.

When she was fully dressed, Elphaba walked to the door but paused. She turned back to Galinda, her expression softening. “You’re going to be fine, you know,” she said, her voice steady and sure. “Whatever you’re worried about…it’s not as bad as you think.”

Before Galinda could respond, Elphaba crossed the room, leaning down to press a kiss to her lips. It wasn’t rushed or overly heated, just soft and sure, leaving Galinda breathless. When Elphaba pulled back, she gave her a crooked smile.

“Thanks for the night, Galinda,” she said, her voice warm. “Take care of yourself.”

And with that, she was gone.

Elphaba stepped into the hotel lobby, her hands tucked into the pockets of her blazer as she made her way toward the entrance. She barely noticed the curious glances of a few lingering guests, her mind still pleasantly hazy from the events of the night.

When she pushed through the front doors, however, she paused. A small group of photographers were gathered just outside, their cameras hanging idle around their necks. They stood in clusters, murmuring to each other as though waiting for something…or someone.

Elphaba frowned, glancing back toward the receptionist’s desk. “Can you call me a car?” she asked, her voice calm despite the sudden realisation of the crowd.

The receptionist nodded, picking up the phone.

“What’s with the crowd outside?” Elphaba asked, gesturing toward the doors.

The receptionist offered a tight-lipped smile. “There’s an actress staying at the hotel,” she explained. “She’s very famous, so they’re waiting for her to come down.”

Elphaba hummed in acknowledgment, her brow furrowing slightly. She didn’t give it much thought, chalking it up to the usual chaos of celebrity culture.

When her car arrived, she stepped out into the crisp morning air, the photographers barely sparing her a glance as she slid into the backseat. She sank into the seat with a contented sigh, completely unaware of the connection that lingered just upstairs.

Elphaba stepped into her sleek, minimalist apartment, the door clicking shut behind her. The walls were a muted gray, adorned with sparse but carefully chosen artwork. The floor-to-ceiling windows framed a breathtaking view of the New York skyline, the glass reflecting the light of the early morning sun. The furniture was modern and understated: a black leather couch, a glass coffee table, and a polished marble countertop separating the open-plan living room from the kitchen.

She slipped off her blazer, tossing it onto a chair as she crossed the room toward the bathroom. Her heels clicked softly on the polished hardwood floors. Despite the events of the night, her stride was unhurried, her expression calm and composed.

The bathroom was as pristine as the rest of the apartment, with gleaming white tiles and chrome fixtures. Elphaba stepped into the oversized glass shower, letting the hot water cascade over her. She closed her eyes, her head tipping back as she let the tension of the night melt away. The scent of eucalyptus filled the air as she lathered her skin, the steam swirling around her.

As she rinsed off, her thoughts drifted briefly to Galinda. The blonde’s flushed face and nervous laugh replayed in her mind, bringing a faint smirk to her lips. There had been something endearing about her awkwardness, a vulnerability that tugged at something deep in Elphaba’s chest. But she pushed the thought aside as quickly as it came. Last night was last night.

After her shower, Elphaba wrapped herself in a plush white towel, padding back into her bedroom. The space was as immaculate as the rest of the apartment, with a large bed draped in crisp white linens and a sleek black wardrobe taking up one wall. She opened the wardrobe, her fingers trailing over the rows of perfectly pressed shirts and blazers.

She dressed quickly, pulling on a tailored black blazer over a crisp white shirt, paired with high-waisted black trousers. She fastened her cufflinks, silver, engraved with the initials “TE” for Thropp Enterprises, and slid her feet into polished black shoes. A final glance in the mirror confirmed that she looked every bit the part of a powerful CEO.

With one last sip of coffee from her sleek espresso machine, Elphaba grabbed her phone and bag, heading out the door.

Thropp Enterprises occupied an imposing glass tower in the heart of the city, its name emblazoned in bold silver letters across the front. As Elphaba stepped into the lobby, the rhythmic click of her heels on the marble floor turned heads. Employees paused mid-conversation, greeting her with a mix of respect and awe.

“Good morning, Miss Thropp,” a receptionist said as she passed.

Elphaba gave a curt nod, her piercing gaze sweeping the room. She carried an air of authority that was impossible to ignore, her posture straight and her expression unreadable.

The elevator ride to the top floor was silent, save for the soft hum of the machinery. When the doors opened, she crossed the room and stepped into her office, a sprawling space with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city. A massive glass desk sat at the center, flanked by minimalist shelves lined with books and awards.

Nessa, her younger sister and head of the company’s charitable division, was already waiting for her. She sat in her wheelchair by the desk, her hands folded neatly in her lap.

“You’re late,” Nessa remarked, arching a brow.

Elphaba smirked, setting her bag down on the desk. “Morning to you too, dear sister.”

Nessa sighed. “We have a board meeting in an hour. Are you ready?”

“I’m always ready,” Elphaba replied, her tone cool and confident. She pulled out a tablet, scanning through the day’s agenda.

The sound of the door opening drew their attention. Fiyero, the company’s head of public relations, strolled in with his usual easy charm. He was dressed in a navy suit, the top button of his shirt undone, giving him a slightly disheveled but effortlessly handsome appearance.

“Morning, boss,” he said, flashing Elphaba a grin. “You’re looking particularly intimidating today.”

“Flattery won’t get you a raise, Fiyero,” Elphaba said dryly, though a hint of amusement flickered in her eyes.

“Worth a shot,” he replied, leaning against the edge of her desk. “Just wanted to let you know we’re getting inquiries about the charity gala in a few months. People are already asking if you’ll be attending.”

Elphaba sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Of course they are. Remind me why we even bother with those things?”

“Because it’s good for the company’s image,” Nessa interjected, her tone clipped. “And because it raises money for important causes.”

Elphaba waved a hand dismissively. “Fine. Send me the details later.”

Fiyero gave her a mock salute before straightening. “You’ve got it. Oh, and one more thing, Boq wanted to go over the numbers for the new project. I told him to meet you after the board meeting.”

Elphaba nodded, already turning her attention back to her tablet. “Anything else?”

“Nope, that’s it,” Fiyero said, pushing off the desk. “Try to scare the board a little less today, yeah?”

Elphaba smirked, her green eyes glinting. “Where’s the fun in that?”

As Fiyero left, Nessa shook her head. “One of these days, his charm is going to get him into trouble.”

“Probably,” Elphaba said, her voice devoid of concern.

She glanced at the clock, noting the time. The day was just beginning, but she felt the familiar rush of energy that came with running Thropp Enterprises. Whatever challenges lay ahead, she was ready.

Still, as she sat back in her chair, a flicker of last night’s memory resurfaced, a pair of warm brown eyes, a shy smile. She pushed it aside with a shake of her head. She had more important things to focus on. For now.

Elphaba’s day unfolded with its usual rhythm of meetings, emails, and phone calls. She reviewed quarterly reports with Boq, discussed PR strategies with Fiyero, and approved plans for the expansion of their tech division. Her laser focus never faltered as she navigated the complexities of running one of the city’s largest enterprises.

She returned to her office in the late afternoon, the light slanting in through the tall windows, bathing the room in a warm glow. The buzz of the city outside was distant, muffled by the thick glass.

As she sat behind her desk, scanning a proposal from the legal department, a knock on the door broke her concentration.

“Come in,” she called, not looking up.

The door opened, and Fiyero stepped inside. His usual easygoing demeanor was absent, replaced by a rare tension in his shoulders.

“We need to talk,” he said, his voice lower than usual.

Elphaba frowned, setting down the document. “What’s the issue?”

Fiyero glanced toward the windows that were looked in on from the open work area, then crossed the room to close the blinds. The light dimmed as he turned back to her, his expression serious.

“Where were you last night?” he asked, crossing his arms.

Elphaba leaned back in her chair, her sharp green eyes narrowing. “That’s none of your concern.”

“Normally, I’d agree,” he said, his tone careful. “But this time, it’s different.”

Her brow furrowed. “What are you talking about?”

“With someone?”

She arched a brow, her tone cooling. “What I do in my free time is none of the company’s business, Fiyero.”

He exhaled slowly, running a hand through his hair. “Normally, I’d agree with that too. But now it’s everyone’s business.”

Elphaba stiffened slightly. “What are you talking about?”

Fiyero didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he walked over to her desk, placing his tablet in front of her. The screen was open to a celebrity news site.

“Take a look,” he said, his voice grim.

Elphaba’s gaze dropped to the tablet. Her stomach tightened as she read the headline:

“Galinda Upland Caught in a Steamy Encounter with a Woman! A New Relationship Revealed?”

Below the text was a still from a grainy video. A blonde woman with a radiant smile, unmistakably Galinda, wrapped in the arms of another woman. As Elphaba tapped the screen, the video began to play.

It showed her and Galinda on the dance floor of the club from the night before. The footage wasn’t perfect, but it captured everything;  their laughter, the way they danced closely together, and then, there was no mistaking it, the kiss.

It was full on, passionate, the kind of kiss that made the air crackle with heat. Elphaba could see it in the way they leaned into each other, as though they were the only two people in the world. Their bodies moved in sync as the kiss deepened, and the video lingered on the moment.

The camera panned out just as they broke away, fingers still intertwined, their faces flushed as they turned to leave the dance floor. The implication was clear. They were heading somewhere private.

The video ended with them walking hand in hand toward the hotel elevators.

Elphaba froze, staring at the screen in stunned silence. Her heart was racing, and her mind was already two steps ahead, trying to piece together the gravity of what she was seeing.

She hadn’t realised. Galinda was a public figure.

“Is she… famous?” Elphaba asked quietly, her voice suddenly distant.

“You didn’t know?” Fiyero’s voice was almost incredulous.

Elphaba shook her head. “No,” she replied, her voice almost a whisper. “I didn’t know.”

Fiyero leaned back, his eyes narrowing. “Galinda Upland is huge. She’s an actress, one of the most talked-about stars right now. And now this video, this kiss, is everywhere. Not just the celebrity news sites, but all over social media. It’s trending.”

Elphaba felt a tight knot form in her stomach. This wasn’t just some private moment that had slipped through the cracks. This was on display for the world to see.

Fiyero crossed his arms. “This is bad, Elphaba. Really bad. You’re a CEO, not just some public figure. Your image matters, too.”

Elphaba ran a hand through her hair, her mind a whirlwind. This wasn’t just her problem, it was a corporate problem now.

“What do you want me to do about it?” she asked, the cold edge of her voice cutting through the tension.

“I’m not telling you what to do,” Fiyero replied, his voice softening. “I’m just saying…this is going to blow up, and fast. People will figure it out, and soon they’ll connect you to her. They’ll want answers.”

She shook her head, trying to suppress the irritation rising within her. “I didn’t sign up for this. I just had a good time last night. It’s private.”

“And now it’s public,” Fiyero said, his tone unwavering. “And it’s not just her career on the line, Elphaba. It’s yours too. And here’s the kicker. The reason this is going to be such a huge scandal is because as far as anyone knows, Galinda Upland is straight.”

The words hit her like a freight train. She froze, the blood draining from her face as the realisation dawned on her. Straight? She remembered now, the way Galinda had seemed so intent on avoiding attention, her hesitation when they first spoke. How she had been surprised that she didn’t recognise her.

It all clicked into place. Galinda had built an image of being the perfect, innocent star; always seen with men, never once hinting at anything other than a conventional, straight lifestyle. The public had no idea she was anything but that.

The weight of the situation slammed into Elphaba’s chest.

“Wait…” Elphaba muttered, her voice shaking slightly. “She didn’t want to be recognised last night. She… she was scared.”

Fiyero nodded. “Exactly. She’s been living in the public eye for so long, maintaining that image, and now? This. It’s not just a ‘relationship’, it’s a huge breach of everything the public thinks they know about her. And because it was you… well, they’ll definitely want answers. They’re already dissecting every second of that video.”

Elphaba ran a hand through her hair, her mind spinning. The media was going to tear them both apart.

“What do I do?” Elphaba’s voice was softer now, the frustration in her words giving way to the vulnerability she hadn’t anticipated.

Fiyero gave her a measured look. “Well, for starters, you need to figure out how you’re going to deal with it. You can’t just pretend this didn’t happen. The media’s going to hound you, hound both of you, until they get answers. The longer you stay quiet, the worse it will get. Just be careful, Elphaba. This could get ugly fast. I’ll leave it for now, but we need to have a meeting in the morning because there’s no way the business is not going to somehow become involved.

Elphaba nodded, but her mind was already elsewhere; on Galinda, on the kiss, and on the whirlwind that was about to descend on both of their lives. The realisation hit her hard. She had just shared something incredibly personal with a woman who was now about to have her life turned upside down. And Elphaba was going to have to figure out what part she would play in the storm. 

“Thank you for bringing this to me, Fiyero. I think I’m going to head home now and just clear my head, but I appreciate you coming to me.”

Fiyero nodded. “Get a good rest tonight. I have a feeling you are going to need it.” He left the room, and after collecting her bag and coat, was followed by Elphaba.

Elphaba paused at the door of her office, a deep sigh escaping her lips as she wrapped her coat around her shoulders. The day had been long, and the weight of her thoughts made the space feel suffocating. She needed to get out, to escape to the quiet of home where she could think without the noise of the office pressing in on her.

Her eyes scanned the room, and then she started walking toward the elevator, hoping to slip away unnoticed. But as she moved past the break room, a group of colleagues gathered around, their attention clearly fixed on their phones. They stopped mid-conversation as they saw her, their whispers turning to hushed murmurs.

One of them held up her phone, her eyes wide. “This is insane,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “It’s everywhere. Galinda Upland and some mystery woman, but they never actually say who she is.”

Elphaba froze, her heartbeat quickening.

“Wait, is that…could it be?” another colleague stammered, looking at the video on her screen, her finger tapping at the image.

The first voice continued, her tone full of disbelief. “I’m telling you, it’s her. The video’s all over the news, but her name’s never mentioned. But you can clearly see it’s her. Those eyes, that hair, it’s definitely Elphaba.”

Elphaba kept walking, but the conversation followed her, the words louder now.

“I just don’t get it,” the second colleague said, tapping through the video. “There’s no way this is a publicity stunt. I mean, they’re dancing together. Galinda’s all over her, passionately kissing her in public like it’s no big deal.”

Another voice joined in, a mix of incredulity and curiosity. “And they leave together, like together together. What do you think that means? I mean, come on, it’s obvious they’re about to get it on. That’s not just two friends hanging out.”

Elphaba’s skin prickled, her stomach twisting. The images from the video flashed in her mind. The dance, the kiss, the way they had looked at each other. She hadn’t expected it to get out, not like this. Not so quickly, and certainly not in such a public, viral way.

“I’ve never seen Galinda so… like, into someone,” a voice added, making the others laugh. “She’s straight, everyone knows that. This is so out of left field. Is she… really into Elphaba, or is this just, like, some weird attention grab?”

“Yeah, but think about it,” another colleague said, clearly intrigued. “They don’t even try to hide it. They’re all over each other. You can’t deny it’s real. Something’s definitely going on.”

Elphaba’s hand tightened around the strap of her bag. Her heart raced, and the elevator doors finally dinged open in front of her. She stepped inside, thankful for the brief moment of silence as the doors slid shut. The muffled voices of her colleagues remained outside, their words still lingering in the air, but it was a welcome reprieve.

The elevator descended, its hum accompanying the whirlwind of thoughts in her mind. The news, the video, the questions, it was all out there now. The world could see what had happened between her and Galinda, even if no one understood it.

Elphaba closed her eyes briefly, the weight of the world pressing down on her chest. It wasn’t the way she would’ve wanted it to go, but the truth was out. She didn’t know where it would lead, but for now, she just needed to get home, to find some space, away from the noise.

Before she could respond, Pfanee, ever the professional, swooped in.

“I’m so sorry,” Pfanee said, cutting across the conversation, his tone as calm and measured as always. “But that’s all the time we have for today. Galinda has a prior engagement.”

Galinda barely registered the words. She stood up, her thoughts racing. Her publicist’s hand lightly touched her arm, guiding her away from the interviewer.

“What’s going on, Pfanee?” Galinda asked, her voice tight with confusion.

Pfanee didn’t respond immediately, only leading her through the hotel lobby, and to the sleek black car waiting outside. Once inside, the doors shut behind them, and only then did Pfanee turn to face her.

“I’m sorry, Galinda,” he said, his face unreadable, “but you need to see this.”

He pulled out his phone, tapping the screen before handing it to her.

Galinda’s breath caught as she read the headline on the screen: 

“Galinda Upland Caught in Steamy Hotel Video with a Mystery Woman!”

Her heart sank.

A grainy video clip filled the screen. Galinda felt her pulse quicken as she saw herself; dancing, laughing, and then, unmistakably, kissing someone. Her stomach churned as she recognised Elphaba. The video showed them in the hotel, smiling and sharing an intimate kiss, a kiss that was far too real to ignore, a kiss she hadn’t expected to see in the public eye.

Elphaba’s morning began as it always did, with sharp efficiency and an unwavering focus on her work. Yet, as the car pulled up to the sleek glass facade of Thropp Enterprises, she was met with something entirely unexpected.

A crowd of paparazzi was clustered around the entrance, cameras flashing in rapid succession as reporters shouted over each other, their questions invasive and unrelenting.

“Elphaba! Are you and Galinda Upland an item?”

“Care to comment on the scandal, Ms. Thropp?”

“Was this a PR stunt gone wrong?”

“Is it true you’ve ruined Galinda’s career?”

Elphaba’s jaw tightened, though her expression remained impassive. She adjusted her leather briefcase and strode forward, ignoring the cacophony of voices and the blinding flashes of light. Her black heels clicked sharply against the polished concrete, each step deliberate, unwavering.

“Ms. Thropp, is this your coming out story?!”

That one made her pause, her face hardening for a fraction of a second before she pressed through the glass doors. Inside, the lobby was blessedly quiet, though the tension followed her like a shadow.

She stepped into the elevator, exhaling slowly as the doors slid shut. Alone at last. Or so she thought.

“Morning, Elphaba.”

The familiar voice made her glance up. Fiyero was already in the elevator, leaning casually against the mirrored wall. He looked effortlessly polished in his tailored navy suit, but his usual charm was dimmed by the furrow in his brow.

“You could’ve warned me about the mob outside,” she said coolly, pressing the button for her floor.

He smirked faintly. “Thought you’d handle it just fine. And you did.”

She didn’t reply, her gaze fixed on the numbers ticking upward.

“You might want to reconsider this ‘no comment’ approach, though,” he added. “I didn’t think the fake relationship idea was great either, but… things are escalating. The shareholders called an emergency meeting for this afternoon. They’re not thrilled about the media frenzy, and I think they’re questioning your leadership.”

Elphaba’s stomach twisted, but her expression didn’t betray her. “Let them question,” she said evenly. “Thropp Enterprises has thrived under my leadership. One scandal won’t change that.”

Fiyero tilted his head, studying her. “This company is your life, Elphaba. Don’t pretend this doesn’t bother you.”

“It doesn’t,” she lied, her tone sharp. “If they can’t see the value I’ve built here, that’s their problem.”

He sighed, pushing off the wall. “Fine. But there’s something else you should see.”

Elphaba arched an eyebrow as he pulled out his tablet, tapping a few times before handing it to her. On the screen was a breaking news headline:

“Galinda Upland Dropped from ‘Wicked Intentions’ Amid Scandal: Director Morrible Cites ‘Unnecessary Distractions.”

The article detailed how Galinda had been cast as the lead in Morrible’s much-anticipated blockbuster, only to be quietly replaced due to the media circus surrounding her personal life.

Elphaba’s grip on the tablet tightened, but her face remained unreadable.

“She’s losing everything over this,” Fiyero said softly. “You might not care about the press, but Galinda’s career doesn’t have the same foundation as your company. She’s vulnerable. I know you don’t want to hear this, but there were two people in that video. Is it fair that this falls solely on her? I know you, and I could say with absolute certainty, that it would have been you that initiated things that night. Am I right”

Elphaba handed the tablet back without a word, her chest heavy with an emotion she refused to name.

“And one more thing,” Fiyero said, hesitating. “You got a message from her. On your personal account.”

Her eyes snapped to his.

“Don’t look at me like that…I run the account, remember? I thought you’d want to read it yourself.” He handed her the tablet again, this time open to the message.

The elevator doors opened to her office floor, and Fiyero stepped out, leaving her with the tablet. “Take a minute,” he said over his shoulder.

Finally alone, Elphaba moved to her desk, sinking into the leather chair. She stared at the screen, at Galinda’s name glowing softly at the top of the message.

Her pulse quickened as she opened it.

“For what it’s worth, I’m sorry you’ve been dragged into this. You don’t deserve any of it.”

It was simple, direct, and utterly unexpected.

Elphaba leaned back in her chair, her gaze drifting to the city skyline outside her window. She felt an ache in her chest she couldn’t explain, a tangle of guilt, anger, and something else, something she wasn’t ready to name.

The world was tearing Galinda apart, and Elphaba couldn’t deny her part in it. But she also couldn’t decide if stepping in would help or make things worse.

Elphaba’s fingers hovered over the tablet as she reread Galinda’s message, tapping lightly against the edge of the device. The words had been circling her mind all morning, and she couldn’t shake the weight of them. For what it’s worth. A simple phrase, but it felt heavier than it had any right to be.

She pushed herself upright, setting the tablet on her desk before reaching for the phone. Her private line rang twice before a familiar, calm voice answered.

“Fiyero,” he said, though she could hear the faint shuffle of papers in the background. Likely already halfway buried in the chaos of the day.

“It’s me,” Elphaba said briskly. “Effective immediately, I’m taking control of my personal account. You can focus on the corporate ones.”

There was a brief pause before he replied. “Understood.” His tone was knowing, and she could almost hear the slight smile tugging at the corner of his lips. He knew her too well.

“And one more thing,” she added, her voice sharp but measured. “Inform the shareholders the meeting is postponed. Indefinitely.”

Fiyero gave a low whistle. “Postponed? Elphaba, they’re already circling like vultures. This isn’t going to make them happy.”

She leaned back in her chair, staring up at the high, vaulted ceiling. “Good. Let them stew for a while. If they want action, I can give them that. But it’ll be on my terms.”

“Noted,” he said simply, though she caught the faintest edge of admiration in his voice. “Anything else?”

“That’s all for now. Just handle it, Fiyero.”

“Of course,” he replied, his voice tinged with amusement. “Good luck with… whatever you’re planning.”

Elphaba didn’t dignify that with a response. She ended the call and set the phone down, her mind already moving to the next task. There was no time for hesitation. She picked the tablet back up, quickly re-opening Galinda’s message. It stared back at her, deceptively simple, but Elphaba could feel the layers beneath it. Apologies. Regrets. Something unsaid.

Her fingers hovered over the screen for a moment before she started typing her reply, the words coming quickly and with precision:

“If you want me to reconsider, explain the proposal to me yourself. Why it matters. Why you care. Then maybe, just maybe, I’ll think about it.”

She paused, letting her eyes linger on the words before adding, “Meet me at my apartment. I’ll send a car for you at 7.”

Her gaze flicked toward the large clock hanging on the opposite wall, ticking steadily, as if to remind her of the time she’d spent avoiding this moment. She tapped out the final words, her lips quirking into the faintest of smiles:

“For what it’s worth, I’m still glad you let me buy you that drink.”

Satisfied, Elphaba hit send. She leaned back in her chair, her gaze once again drawn to the skyline. The city stretched out before her, bright and bustling, utterly indifferent to the storm she was about to unleash. The meeting with Galinda would come with its complications, it always did, but for the first time in a long time, Elphaba felt a flicker of something almost foreign to her.

Anticipation.

Her phone buzzed, snapping her from her thoughts. A new message lit up the screen, this time from Fiyero.

“Shareholders are furious. You’re officially their least favourite person.”

She smirked, tapping out a quick reply:

“Good. That’s exactly what I was going for.”

And with that, her focus already shifting to the evening ahead.

Galinda and Elphaba lingered in the green room, their conversation quiet and close despite the curious glances being thrown their way. Galinda still held the bouquet tightly, her fingers brushing over the velvet ribbon as she clung to the composure she’d mastered over the years. Elphaba’s presence grounded her, though, making it easier to smile through the occasional interruption from a guest or staff member.

After a moment, Pfanee approached, his sharp eyes already scanning the room like a strategist surveying the battlefield. “You did great out there,” he said to Galinda, his tone clipped but approving. Then he leaned in slightly, his voice dropping so only the two of them and Elphaba could hear. “The paparazzi caught Elphaba coming in with the flowers. So now, we need you holding them and hanging off each other as you walk to the car. We’ll make sure they get the shots.”

Galinda glanced at Elphaba, who raised an eyebrow but gave a small, almost imperceptible nod. They both understood what was expected of them, it was all part of the game. Galinda turned back to Pfanee and nodded in agreement. “Alright. Let’s get this over with.”

Pfanee stepped back, signalling that their path to the exit was clear. Before they could take a step, Elphaba’s hand found Galinda’s waist, her grip firmer than necessary, her touch grounding. “Stay close to me,” Elphaba murmured, her voice low but commanding. “It’s going to be a mess out there.”

Galinda arched a delicate brow, her lips curving into a teasing smile despite the tension in the air. “Are you worried about me?”

Elphaba shot her a dry look. “No, I’m worried about the pack of photographers who will do anything for a shot. So humour me and don’t wander off.”

Galinda chuckled but obediently nestled into Elphaba’s side as they walked toward the exit. The moment they stepped outside, the camera flashes began immediately, an aggressive staccato that lit up the parking lot like lightning.

Elphaba tightened her hold on Galinda without hesitation, keeping her tucked against her side as they navigated through the crowd. Her sharp eyes scanned the frenzy, and every time someone got too close, she subtly shifted, placing herself between Galinda and the chaos. The move was effortless, instinctive, like shielding Galinda was second nature to her.

Galinda, ever the performer, kept her expression poised and bright, but she could feel Elphaba’s protective energy humming beneath the surface. The contrast between her carefully controlled demeanour and Elphaba’s quiet intensity made warmth bloom in Galinda’s chest.

When they reached the car, Elphaba moved ahead, opening the door with a precision that felt both practiced and deliberate. But before Galinda could slide in, Elphaba leaned in slightly, her voice a low murmur in Galinda’s ear.

“You alright?”

Galinda turned her head slightly, their faces inches apart, the scent of Elphaba’s cologne lingering between them. She smiled, letting her fingers trail lightly over Elphaba’s wrist. “What a gentlewoman,” Galinda teased, still trying to regain the upper hand.

Elphaba leaned in slightly, her voice low and smooth. “Always.”

And with that, she held out a hand, an invitation.

Galinda hesitated just a second too long, and Elphaba’s smirk deepened. With a knowing look, she reached forward, brushing a stray lock of Galinda’s golden hair behind her ear, her fingers barely ghosting over her skin.

“Get in, princess,” Elphaba murmured.

Galinda swallowed hard and ducked into the car before she could embarrass herself further.

Elphaba chuckled softly as she closed the door behind her.

The car door shut with a soft click, sealing them off from the noise of the outside world. The city lights flickered past the tinted windows as the vehicle pulled smoothly away from the curb.

Galinda let out a dramatic sigh, sinking into the seat. “Well, that was an experience.”

Elphaba hummed in agreement, stretching one arm lazily along the back of the seat. “You handled it well,” she said, watching Galinda with an unreadable expression.

Galinda smiled, preening just a little. “Obviously.”

Elphaba smirked, tilting her head. “Though I must admit…” She leaned in slightly, her voice dipping lower. “I wasn’t expecting you to be quite so bold.”

Galinda turned her head, eyes narrowing in suspicion. “Bold?”

Elphaba nodded, completely unruffled. “The way you touched my arm when you laughed in the green room,” she mused. “The way you kept looking at my lips whenever I spoke.”

Galinda’s mouth opened, then shut. “I…I did not.”

Elphaba arched a brow, clearly amused. “Oh, you did.” She lifted her hand, tracing an idle pattern against the leather seat with one long finger. “Not that I minded, of course.”

Galinda crossed her arms, lifting her chin. “You’re imagining things.”

Elphaba just chuckled, a deep, rich sound that sent an irritating shiver down Galinda’s spine.

“Oh, Galinda,” she murmured, voice smooth as silk. “If you wanted to kiss me, all you had to do was say so.”

Galinda practically choked on air. “Excuse me?”

Elphaba turned her head fully now, green eyes sharp and knowing. “You’re staring at my lips again.”

Galinda immediately looked away, her face burning. “You are the most…”

Elphaba shifted closer, just enough that Galinda could feel the warmth of her beside her. “The most what?” she prompted, her voice carrying the barest hint of amusement.

Galinda clenched her jaw, refusing to look back at her.

Elphaba smirked. “That’s what I thought.”

Silence settled between them, thick with tension. The only sound was the soft hum of the car as it glided through the city.

Then, after a long pause, Elphaba spoke again, her tone casual, as if she weren’t currently undoing Galinda’s entire composure with nothing but her voice.

“If it helps,” she mused, “I think you’re good at it.”

Galinda frowned, finally turning back. “Good at what?”

Elphaba met her gaze, and this time, there was no teasing smirk, just a quiet, deliberate intensity.

“Kissing me.”

Galinda’s breath caught.

For a second, she could only stare, her mind stuttering to a complete stop.

And then, because her dignity was hanging on by a thread, she forced out a scoff, waving a hand. “Please,” she said, aiming for dismissive and missing by a mile. “I’m good at everything.”

Elphaba just watched her, unbothered, unwavering.

And smirking.

Galinda groaned, turning to stare out the window in defeat. She rested her head against the plush seat, her fingers playing absently with the bouquet still cradled in her lap. Her thoughts turned to the interview.

Elphaba watched Galinda closely. After a beat of silence, Elphaba spoke, her voice low and steady. “What you did back there, coming out like that, was really brave.”

Galinda turned her head, her eyes meeting Elphaba’s. “I didn’t really have much of a choice, did I?” she said, her tone light, but the undercurrent of emotion was unmistakable. “The world already decided for me.”

“Still,” Elphaba said, her voice firm. “You could have dodged the questions. Played it off like so many others would’ve. But you didn’t. You owned it. That takes courage.”

Galinda’s lips curved into a small, grateful smile, her cheeks tinged pink from the compliment. “Well, if I had to do it, I’m glad it was you they were asking about.” She reached over, her fingers brushing lightly against Elphaba’s hand. 

Elphaba’s gaze softened at that, and for a moment, she seemed to study Galinda as though searching for the right words. Finally, she smirked, her tone turning just a touch teasing. “By the way, ‘Elphie’? I didn’t know we were on nickname terms now.”

Galinda laughed, a soft and melodic sound that filled the quiet car. “What? You don’t like it?”

“It’s… unexpected,” Elphaba admitted, though there was a flicker of amusement in her expression. “I don’t think anyone’s ever called me that.”

“Well, it suits you,” Galinda said simply, her voice light and affectionate.

The bouquet shifted slightly in her lap, and she glanced down at it with a small smile. “I still can’t believe Pfanee roped you into this,” she said, glancing sideways at Elphaba.

“He was… persuasive,” Elphaba replied dryly, though the faintest trace of a smile tugged at her lips. “Apparently, I needed to make a ‘grand romantic gesture.’”

“Well, he was right,” Galinda teased. “It worked.” She leaned over and gave Elphaba’s hand a gentle squeeze. “Thank you for being here. It means a lot.”

Elphaba nodded, her hand lingering briefly in Galinda’s before she pulled it away and rested it in her lap. “Of course,” she said quietly.

As the car continued its journey through the city streets, Galinda closed her eyes for a moment, letting herself bask in the comfort of Elphaba’s presence. For all the chaos and scrutiny of the night, there was a sense of peace in knowing she didn’t have to face it alone.

“Well,” Galinda said softly, a playful smile tugging at her lips as she looked up at Elphaba. “I guess this is where we say goodnight. You really put on a fabulous show. I’d go so far as to say you even seem to be enjoying yourself.” 

Thursday evening arrived quickly, bringing with it the much-anticipated Thropp Enterprises shareholders’ dinner.

In the backseat of the black car taking them to the event, Galinda adjusted her dress, a shimmering champagne-coloured gown that hugged her figure and glimmered in the dim light. She caught Elphaba’s reflection in the window, stoic as ever in her tailored black suit, though there was something undeniably captivating about her tonight.

“You look good,” Galinda said, breaking the silence. “Though I still think you could’ve added a little colour.

Elphaba smirked, glancing sideways at her. “And yet, here I am, still managing to look better than everyone else in the room. Including you.”

Galinda gasped, feigning offense. “Excuse me? You’re lucky I don’t tell the driver to turn this car around.”

Elphaba chuckled, shaking her head. “Relax, Miss Upland. You look stunning. They won’t know what hit them.”

Galinda’s cheeks warmed, but she covered it with a bright laugh. “Well, thank you, Miss Thropp. Though I hope you’re ready for an evening of insufferable company.”

Elphaba raised an eyebrow, leaning back in her seat. “I’ve done this before, remember? But since you’re new to the scene, let me give you a preview. Imagine a room full of arrogant men who think the world revolves around them. They’ll brag about their yachts, their investments, and their terrible golf games, all while pretending their businesses don’t run on the backs of people they’ll never meet.”

Galinda raised a delicate brow. “Charming. And their wives?”

Elphaba let out a dry laugh. “They’ll be there, dressed to the nines, playing their roles perfectly. But most of them know their husbands are cheating on them. They stay because the lifestyle is…intoxicating.”

Galinda frowned slightly, her fingers playing with the hem of her dress. “That’s…depressing.”

“It is,” Elphaba said simply, her voice low. “But it’s the reality of these circles. Just…try not to let it ruin your night.”

Galinda glanced at her, studying the way Elphaba’s jaw tightened as she stared out the window. “I’ll survive. Besides, I’ll have you to keep me entertained, won’t I?”

Elphaba’s lips curved into a faint smile. “I suppose you will.”

When they arrived at the sprawling estate where the dinner was being held, they were greeted by a uniformed staff member who led them inside. The grand dining room was already bustling with well-dressed guests sipping on whiskey and wine, their laughter echoing off the high ceilings.

“Elphaba!” a voice called out as they entered, drawing the attention of several onlookers. A tall man in an expensive suit approached, his smile wide and incredulous. “I never thought I’d see the day you brought someone to one of these things.”

Elphaba’s expression didn’t waver as she introduced Galinda, her hand resting lightly on the small of her back. “This is Galinda Upland. I’m sure you’ve heard of her.”

The man’s eyes lit up with recognition. “Of course! Miss Upland, it’s a pleasure. My wife is a huge fan of your work.”

As if on cue, a group of women approached, their eyes wide with admiration. “Galinda, darling!” one of them gushed. “You’re even more gorgeous in person. Please, tell us, what’s your secret? Your skin, your hair…everything is perfect!”

Galinda smiled warmly, falling effortlessly into the role of gracious celebrity. “Oh, you’re too kind. Honestly, it’s just lots of water and a good night cream.”

Elphaba watched the exchange with quiet amusement, sipping her whiskey as Galinda charmed the crowd. But the light mood didn’t last long.

Seated at the dinner table, the conversation shifted to business, and one shareholder, a smug-looking man named Avaric, was seated to Galinda’s right. His attention, however, was fixed entirely on her.

“So, Galinda,” Avaric began, swirling his wine and leaning slightly closer, “you must have some fascinating stories from your career. All those glamorous sets, dramatic scenes, and, of course, the love scenes.”

Galinda offered a polite smile, but her body tensed slightly. “It’s a unique experience, certainly,” she said, keeping her tone light.

“Oh, I’ll bet it is,” Avaric said with a smirk. “Tell me, though…when you’re filming those steamy moments, do you ever feel anything? Does it ever get, you know, real for you?”

Galinda blinked, the question catching her off guard. Her smile faltered as she glanced away, clearly uncomfortable. Slowly, she placed her hand on Elphaba’s thigh beneath the table, her fingers squeezing lightly, a silent signal.

Elphaba, who had been focused on her glass of whiskey, immediately noticed the shift in Galinda’s demeanour and the pressure of her hand. She turned her head slightly, her sharp green eyes narrowing as they zeroed in on Avaric.

Before Elphaba could say anything, Avaric leaned in even closer to Galinda, his hand dropping casually to rest on her knee. She stiffened, her breath catching as she instinctively recoiled, but his hand stayed put.

“You must have a favourite,” Avaric pressed, his voice low and suggestive. “A scene that made your heart race. That turned you on. Or maybe made you wish the cameras weren’t there.”

Elphaba’s voice cut through the low hum of conversation like a blade. “Take your hand off her.”

The table went silent as Avaric looked up, startled by the icy steel in Elphaba’s tone. Slowly, he withdrew his hand, laughing nervously. “Relax, Elphaba. I was just making conversation. Nothing wrong with a little curiosity.”

Elphaba’s eyes burned as she leaned forward, her voice low and venomous. “If you touch her again, or even look at her like that, I’ll personally make sure your wife knows exactly where you’ve been every time you “work late.” And if that’s not enough, I’ll have your position on this board revoked before you finish your next drink. Are we clear?”

Avaric paled, his bravado crumbling under Elphaba’s glare. “I..I apologise. I didn’t mean any offence,” he stammered, shrinking back in his seat.

Galinda’s hand remained on Elphaba’s thigh, her grip steady as she tried to ground herself, and maybe Elphaba, too.

“Elphie,” Galinda whispered gently, her voice low enough that only Elphaba could hear. “It’s okay. Let’s go?”

Elphaba hesitated, her jaw tight, before nodding sharply. She pushed back her chair, standing with an imposing finality. Without another word, she extended her hand to Galinda, helping her up from the table.

The room watched in stunned silence as the two women walked out, the soft click of Galinda’s heels and the low murmur of whispers the only sounds accompanying them.

In the quiet of the corridor, Galinda exhaled shakily, her hand trembling slightly as she brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. “Thank you,” she murmured, looking up at Elphaba with wide, grateful eyes.

Elphaba turned to face her fully, the sharpness in her expression giving way to something gentler. “Are you okay?” she asked softly, her voice stripped of its earlier edge.

Galinda nodded, though her hands still trembled. “I’m fine now. I just, I didn’t know what to do when he…” She stopped, shaking her head.

“You shouldn’t have to know,” Elphaba said firmly, her tone laced with protective anger. She hesitated, then reached out, her hand brushing Galinda’s arm lightly. “And I promise, it won’t happen again. Not while I’m here.”

Galinda studied her for a moment, her cheeks warming as her lips curved into a small smile. “I know. That’s why I feel safe with you.”

Elphaba’s lips twitched into a faint smile of her own. “Come on,” she said softly. “Let’s get out of here.”

Galinda nodded, and together they stepped out into the cool night air, leaving the tension of the evening far behind.

They made their way over to the waiting car. The car door clicked shut as the driver turned to face them. “Where to?” he asked, glancing at Galinda in the rearview mirror.

Galinda hesitated for a beat before looking over at Elphaba, who made a suggestion. “Since we didn’t actually get to eat at the dinner, how about this? We can head to mine and order in a pizza. I’m starving, and I’m guessing you must be too.”

Galinda’s lips quirked upward, her exhaustion giving way to curiosity. “A Thropp Enterprises shareholder dinner and now pizza at your place? What a night.” She turned to the driver with an easy smile. “You can take us to Elphaba’s apartment.”

The driver nodded, pulling out into traffic. The city lights streaked across the car windows as the two women settled into silence, the tension of the dinner slowly dissipating.

When they arrived in front of the towering building that housed Elphaba’s penthouse, the driver glanced over his shoulder. “Do you want me to wait?”

Galinda shook her head as she stepped out. “You head home. I’m sure I can find my way back.” 

Elphaba interjected. “I’ll get my driver to take Miss Upland back to the hotel. She will be safe.” The driver nodded and pulled away.

Galinda followed Elphaba up to the building’s entrance, the lobby pristine and quiet save for the faint hum of soft jazz in the background. The elevator was quiet as they made their way up to the top floor and entered the luxury apartment.

“Let me take your coat,” Elphaba offered, holding out her hand.

“Thanks,” Galinda said, slipping it off her shoulders.

Elphaba draped the coat over the back of a chair before turning to her. “Wine while we wait for pizza?”

“Yes, please,” Galinda said, her eyes drifting around the room as Elphaba headed to the kitchen. She took an unopened bottle of wine and started to pour.

She returned a moment later with a glass of red, handing it to Galinda, and a glass of whisky for herself. “I’m sorry about, Avaric. He’s a lot on a good day, and tonight was far from that.”

Galinda waved her off, taking a sip of wine. “You don’t need to apologise for him. It’s not like you’re responsible for his behaviour.”

“No,” Elphaba agreed, smirking slightly. “But that doesn’t mean I don’t feel like punching him sometimes.”

Galinda laughed, her shoulders relaxing as they settled onto the sleek couch. “I can see why you don’t bring people to those dinners. That crowd could scare anyone off.”

“Exactly,” Elphaba quipped, raising her glass in mock toast. “I figured it was better to throw you in mostly blind. Less chance of you running away before we even got there.”

“Oh, how thoughtful of you,” Galinda teased, her eyes sparkling.

Elphaba leaned back, her confidence radiating even in the casual setting. “I thought so.”

They fell into an easy rhythm, their conversation peppered with teasing and the occasional knowing glance. Elphaba’s flirting was bold but never overbearing, each quip and subtle compliment effortlessly woven into the dialogue. Galinda found herself laughing more freely, the lingering tension from the evening melting away.

When the pizza arrived, they moved to the counter to eat, plates forgotten as they picked directly from the box.

“This is possibly the most glamorous pizza dinner I’ve ever had,” Galinda said, gesturing to the floor-to-ceiling windows behind her.

Elphaba chuckled, reaching for another slice. “Glad I could elevate the experience for you.”

By the time they’d finished eating, the wine bottle was nearly empty, and the easy banter between them had shifted into something softer, more charged.

Elphaba handed Galinda another glass of wine as she poured herself another measure of whiskey. The tension between them, playful but crackling with something more, had been building steadily since they’d left the dinner.

They sat together on the couch, Galinda tucked close to Elphaba, her fingers occasionally brushing against Elphaba’s knee as she gestured animatedly, the wine clearly loosening her usual restraint.

“You know,” Galinda said, her voice warm with amusement, “I still can’t get over how commanding you were with Avaric tonight. The way you shut him down was, well…”She bit her lip and gave Elphaba a sly smile.

“Well what?” Elphaba prompted, her voice low and teasing as she sipped her drink.

Galinda shrugged, her fingers trailing absentmindedly along the edge of Elphaba’s sleeve. “It was hot. It reminded me of the night we met,” she admitted, her cheeks pink but her gaze steady.

Elphaba raised an eyebrow, smirking. “Hot, was it?”

“Oh, don’t pretend you don’t know,” Galinda said, her hand lingering a little too long against Elphaba’s arm, moving up to play with her hair. “That whole, ice queen, take-no-prisoners, thing you do? It’s very…effective.”

Elphaba’s smirk deepened as she tilted her head toward Galinda. “You’re not usually this complimentary, Miss Upland. Should I be flattered?”

“Maybe,” Galinda said, swirling her wine and giving her a sidelong glance. “Or maybe I’ve just had enough wine to tell you what I really think.”

“And what is that?” Elphaba asked, her tone steady, but the edge of her lips curled in challenge.

“That for someone who claims she doesn’t do relationships, you have a very…persuasive way about you,” Galinda said, leaning in slightly, her fingers brushing over Elphaba’s hand this time.

Elphaba let her gaze drop to where Galinda’s hand lingered before meeting her eyes again. “You think I’m persuasive?”

“I think,” Galinda began, her lips curving mischievously, “you’ve probably brought plenty of girls to this apartment and talked them right out of their clothes.”

Elphaba chuckled, low and rich. “Is that what you think?”

“Am I wrong?” Galinda asked, raising an eyebrow as she sipped her wine.

Elphaba leaned back, her expression amused but unreadable. “Actually, you are. I’ve never brought anyone here before.”

Galinda blinked, caught off guard by the unexpected answer. “Never? Really?”

Elphaba swirled her whiskey lazily in her glass. “Really. I don’t make a habit of mixing my personal space with…casual entanglements.”

Galinda tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. “So what makes me different?”

Elphaba met her gaze, her eyes dark and piercing. “Maybe I like the way you challenge me.”

Galinda’s breath hitched slightly, and she looked away, flustered, as she rose to her feet and wandered toward the floor-to-ceiling windows. She placed her glass down on the windowsill and gazed out at the glittering expanse of the New York skyline.

“The view really is stunning,” she murmured, her voice soft.

Behind her, Elphaba’s low voice responded, and it sent a shiver down Galinda’s spine. “It really is.”

There was something about the way she said it, her tone undeniably flirtatious. Galinda didn’t need to turn around to know Elphaba wasn’t talking about the skyline.

Galinda chuckled, turning her head just enough to glance at Elphaba over her shoulder. “That was very smooth. I bet you use that line to talk all the girls out of their clothes.”

Elphaba smirked, her confidence sharp and unshakable. “Well, you’re still fully clothed, so clearly, I need to try harder.”

Galinda laughed, leaning one hand against the window. “Alright then, Miss Thropp,” she said, her voice light but challenging. “What would you say if you were trying to seduce me right now?”

Elphaba paused, her whiskey glass hovering just below her lips as she considered the question. For a moment, Galinda thought she might brush it off, might let the moment pass. But then Elphaba set her glass down deliberately on the counter, her decision made.

She crossed the room with purposeful strides, stopping just in front of Galinda. “I’d say…” she began, her voice low and deliberate as she reached up to tuck a stray strand of Galinda’s blonde hair behind her ear.

Galinda’s breath caught as gentle, but commanding hands, turned her back toward the window, positioning her so that the skyline stretched out before them, Elphaba’s body standing close enough behind her that Galinda could feel the heat of her.

Elphaba leaned in, her lips brushing just against the shell of Galinda’s ear, her voice a low murmur that sent a shiver down her spine. “I’d say…“I’m sorry if I’ve seemed distracted tonight, but I haven’t been able to stop thinking about fucking you against this window, so that every time you see New York, you think about how you came around my fingers.”

Galinda’s eyes widened, her heart pounding as she stared out at the sparkling city lights. Her voice was barely above a whisper when she finally spoke. “Fuck…and…what would you do if I said I wasn’t opposed to the idea?”

Elphaba smirked against her ear, her hands loosening on Galinda’s waist. She took hold of her wrists and nudged her forward, until Galinda was pressed against the window, her arms held above her head. She used one hand to keep hold of both wrists and brought the other down to roughly cup Galinda’s breast, pushing the fabric down, so that she was kneading at bare skin. She let out a low chuckle in her ear. “I’d ask you to tell me.”

Galinda moaned at the feeling of Elphaba’s hand that was massaging her breast. 

“Tell..oh..tell you what?” Galinda struggled to get her words out.

Elphaba pinched the nipple as she grazed her teeth on Galinda’s neck and pulled on her ear lobe. Her other hand let go of the wrists and trailed down the blonde’s body. Her fingers pulled at the hem of the dress, lifting it until it was bunched at Galinda’s waist. Her lacy underwear on show for the whole of the city to see. Elphaba’s leg nudged thighs apart and her fingers trailed along the edge of lace.

“Tell me how much you want to be fucked,” Elphaba husked in to her ear. 

“Shit,” escaped from Galinda’s lips. Arousal clouding her mind.

Elphaba’s hand moved to the warm center. She could feel wet soaking the fabric as she dragged a finger along the middle.

“Fuck, you’re so wet for me. Come on Miss Upland. Do you want me to fuck you?”

Galinda threw her head back to Elphaba’s shoulder.

“Oh fuck. Elphie please,” Galinda begged.

Elphaba put more pressure on her center and grabbed harder at her breast.

“Please, what? Say it.”

Galinda’s moans were the only sounds filling the penthouse. She couldn’t take anymore teasing. She needed more.

“Elphie…please. Oh fuck. Please, just fuck me. Please…I need you.”

With a sudden movement, Elphaba’s hand that was circling her center had pushed her underwear to the side and pushed two fingers inside her opening. Galinda let out a loud moan at the feeling. There was no time for tenderness. Elphaba’s fingers set a fast pace, pushing in and out of the other girl. The sound of her palm slapping against Galinda’s clit filled the air. 

Galinda was out of her mind. She could feel Elphaba everywhere. The frantic pounding of her fingers had her calling out the other girls name. “Elphie…oh god. Fuck. That feels so good.”

Elphaba could feel herself getting more worked up, seeing herself fucking Galinda in the window’s reflection. She bit down on her neck and used her thumb to start rubbing circles on her clit. 

The pace was relentless and it wasn’t long until Galinda could feel her stomach starting to coil.

“I..I don’t think I’m gonna last…oh fuck.” Galinda’s words escaped during heavy breathing. She felt the pace increase even more and the fingers entering her even harder than before.

Elphaba’s hand let go of her breast and pulled at the back of her hair to lift her head. Galinda’s eyes caught hers in the reflection of the window. She could see Elphaba’s pupils were blown and the image of her fucking her sent her closer to the edge.

“I told you, Galinda. Look out there. Any time you even hear the words “New York”, this is what you’ll remember. Remember this feeling. Remember these sounds. Remember being fucked by me.” She growled in the other girl’s ear and could feel walls tightening around her fingers.

These words were the catalyst to send Galinda over the edge. She saw lights behind her eyes and the sound disappearing from the room, as she screamed in pleasure. “Oh…Elphie…fuck!”

Elphaba held Galinda against her, her fingers still inside. She lent back against Elphaba and tried to catch her breath. Elphaba slowly removed her fingers and brought them up to her mouth to taste.

Galinda turned around to look at Elphaba. Her chest raising from her heavy breaths. 

“Fuck, Elphie. That was…that was…god.”

Elphaba chuckled and smirked at the girl that was lent against her. “So…would you say you were seduced?”

Galinda laughed at the absurdity of what she said, after what had just happened “You’re so sure of yourself aren’t you?”

Elphaba’s smug expression didn’t falter. “I’ve got a reputation to uphold. I can’t have Hollywood’s golden girl leaving my apartment unsatisfied. That would be tragic.”

Galinda raised her eyebrows, trying to hold back the laughter that was bubbling in her throat. “Oh, is that so?” She pulled her gown off of her body, leaving herself standing in her pink lingerie. “And who makes sure that you are satisfied?”

Elphaba’s tongue licked her lips, her eyes slowly trailing over Galinda’s body. “I’m pretty sure I’m about to find out.”

Galinda bit her bottom lip, as she reached out for Elphaba and crashed her lips against the other girl. She started to move them back towards the couch, as her fingers began to unbutton her shirt. Elphaba’s legs hit the front of the couch and she sat down, pulling Galinda down on top of her to straddle her.

They continued to kiss as Galinda pulled the shirt off of Elphaba’s shoulders and reached round to undo her bra. Elphaba undid Galinda’s bra at the same time and pulled her body closer, so they could feel their skin dancing together. Their kissing was broken up by Galinda biting at Elphaba’s bottom lip. Elphaba moaned into the kiss, the noise spurring Galinda on. 

“It sounds like you’re finding out,” Galinda whispered, as she moved her kisses to Elphaba’s neck. 

Elphaba’s head fell back, her eyes closed, and her hand gripping Galinda’s waist. “You make me crazy,” she breathed out, as Galinda’s kisses moved down to her chest.

Her tongue came out to swirl around her nipple, which was then encompassed by her mouth. Galinda sucked at the bud, enjoying the sounds that were coming from Elphaba.

Her hands trailed lower, down Elphaba’s body and stopped at the top of her trousers. She undid the button and unsuccessfully tried to pull them down. She gave a frustrated huff. Elphaba let out a laugh and lifted her lower half up, letting Galinda remove the black suit trousers. Once they were off Galinda pushed Elphaba’s shoulders back against the back of the couch and kissed her passionately. 

Galinda slowly started trailing kisses down the length of Elphaba’s body, ending on the floor on her knees. She placed her hands on top of Elphaba’s thighs and gently prised them apart, her mouth placing slow kisses towards her center. When she reached the edge of her underwear, she dragged her mouth across the underwear covered core. Her hands gently pulled at the waistband, rolling fabric down her legs until Elphaba was left completely bare for her. Her breath hitched, as she took the other woman in completely.

“God, you are…there are no words.” With that, She brought her hooded eyes up to make eye contact. 

Her eyes stayed locked on Elphaba’s, as she leant in for the first time and dragged her tongue slowly through her folds. 

Elphaba felt her core pulse. The sensations sending her into overdrive. “Oh…yes.”

Galinda traced her tongue around her clit and delicately flicked it. The moans from Elphaba made Galinda’s actions more confident.

Elphaba felt Galinda hum around her clit, which sent shivers down her spine. She threaded her hands through golden hair and guided her to where she needed her the most. 

“Galinda..oh god..” Galinda smirked into her center as she heard Elphaba moan her name.

Her tongue started flicking her clit more rapidly, at the same time as she brought her hand up to coat two fingers in her juices. As the pressure from her tongue increased, she pushed her fingers inside Elphaba’s core. Elphaba’s breathing grew heavier. Her back arching against the couch. Her fingers began to move in and out of her, the speed increasing.

Elphaba could feel her stomach starting to coil. The image of Galinda eating her out, while she fucked her, was definitely her Kryptonite.

“Galinda..shit..so good.”

She felt Galinda’s tongue and fingers increase their speed even more. Her fingers started to curl and found her sensitive spot. Galinda’s movements were precise and steady. She knew exactly what she was doing and just how close Elphaba was to her release. She could feel Elphaba’s body starting to squirm above her and put even more pressure into her efforts. Her tongue and fingers now at a relentless pace.

“Shit…oh…don’t stop,” Elphaba gasped out in between breaths. Her hands gripping Galinda’s hair, keeping her in place.

With one last curl of her fingers, Elphaba came undone with a scream, her juices covering Galinda’s mouth.

Elphaba kept her head back and eyes closed, as she tried to settle her breathing. She felt Galinda move back up and sit next to her on the couch. A hand rested on her cheek and she felt her head being turned towards the blonde girl. Her eyes fluttered open and she saw Galinda watching her with a gentle smile.

“I don’t remember this side to you last time. Where the hell did you learn that?”

Galinda laughed and smirked at Elphaba. “Pretty satisfied aren’t you?”

Elphaba chuckled in response. She stood from the chair and held her hand out. “It was definitely a good start, but seeing you like that…let’s just say I’ve got more plans for you now.”

Galinda’s eyes sparkled as she took hold of Elphaba’s hand and let herself be led towards her bedroom. The rest of the night awaited them.

Galinda stirred as her phone vibrated insistently against the nightstand, the bright glow of the screen cutting through the morning light that was filtering into the room. With a groggy groan, she fumbled for it, blinking blearily at the name flashing across the screen. Pfanee.

Still half-asleep, she swiped to accept the FaceTime call, bringing the phone up as she nestled deeper into the warm bed.

“Hello?” she murmured, voice thick with sleep.

On the screen, Pfanee’s sharply dressed figure came into view, his face set in a look of exasperation. “Where are you?” he demanded. “You have a meeting in an hour!”

Galinda barely had time to process his words before she felt the bed shift behind her. A dip in the mattress, a brush of warm skin against her back. Then, fingers tracing over her thigh, a slow, deliberate touch.

Oh.

Galinda’s breath caught as Elphaba’s lips ghosted over her hip, pressing a lazy kiss to her bare skin.

She froze.

Pfanee’s eyes narrowed as his gaze dropped slightly, taking in the smooth expanse of her shoulders. “Wait a second…” His brows shot up. “Are you naked? Please don’t tell me I’m going to have to deal with stories of you cheating on your fake girlfriend. I do not get paid enough for this.”

Galinda swallowed hard, shifting slightly to escape the slow burn of Elphaba’s touch. “I’m…”

Elphaba’s fingers slid higher. A playful nip at the curve of her hip.

Galinda barely bit back a moan.

Pfanee’s face twisted in horror. “Oh, gross.”

“I’m at Elphaba’s,” she admitted quickly, voice tight.

Pfanee made a strangled noise. “Okay, I’m gonna go and bleach this from my brain and let you…get on with whatever the hell you’ve got going on over there.” His expression was thoroughly disgusted as he reached for something off-screen. “A car will be there in fifteen minutes. Try to…” He gestured vaguely. “I don’t know. Contain yourself.”

The call ended with a sharp click.

Galinda exhaled, letting her phone drop onto the bed.

Silence.

Then a low chuckle behind her.

“Good morning,” Elphaba murmured against her skin.

Galinda groaned, dropping her head into the pillow. “You are impossible.”

Elphaba only smirked, her fingers still tracing absentminded patterns over Galinda’s hip. “You weren’t exactly stopping me.”

Galinda’s face burned. “Pfanee is traumatised.”

“Well, he called at an unfortunate time,” Elphaba said, thoroughly unrepentant.

Galinda turned her head just enough to glare at her, but it was difficult to look properly irritated when Elphaba’s messy dark hair and sleep-softened smirk made something flip in her stomach.

She hated how easy this was. How natural it felt.

Faking a relationship with Elphaba was one thing. But waking up like this, warm and tangled together, her body still humming from the night before, was something else entirely.

She needed to get out of bed. Now.

“Fifteen minutes,” she reminded herself, shifting to sit up, only for Elphaba’s arm to curl around her waist, pulling her effortlessly back down.

“I only need five.”

“Elphie…” Galinda warned.

Elphaba only smirked wider. “You’re blushing.”

“I am not.”

“You are.”

Galinda huffed. “This is all your fault.”

“Is it?” Elphaba murmured, brushing her lips just beneath Galinda’s ear, delighting in the way she shivered. Galinda melted into the touch.

Fifteen minutes.

Right.

If she ever made it out of this bed. Galinda exhaled sharply, twisting free of Elphaba’s grasp and rolling off the bed in one swift motion. She landed on her feet, ungracefully, as her knees nearly buckled, but at least she was standing. That was progress.

Elphaba propped herself up on one elbow, watching her with infuriating amusement. “Running away so soon?”

“I have a meeting,” Galinda muttered, raking a hand through her tousled curls. “And I need to…” She turned in a slow circle, her stomach sinking as she took in the state of the apartment.

Her dress. Her underwear. Scattered across the floor in a haphazard trail of last night’s decisions.

Oh.

Heat flooded her face as she frantically searched for where to start. She spotted her lacy underwear dangling from the back of a chair and her dress in a crumpled heap near the couch. Her bra was, dear god, was that it on top of the bookshelf?

Elphaba smirked, clearly following the trajectory of her gaze. “You were enthusiastic.”

Galinda whirled to face her, unable to fight the satisfied smile tugging at her lips. “Well, you seemed pretty satisfied with my enthusiasm.”

Elphaba blinked, then let out a low, incredulous laugh. “Oh?”

Galinda tossed her hair over her shoulder, bending to snatch up her dress. “I distinctly remember a moment when you just lay there staring at me. Speechless.”

Elphaba hummed, propping her chin in her hand. “Maybe I was just taking a moment to recover.”

Galinda’s grin widened as she slipped into her dress. “Exactly my point.”

Elphaba shook her head, but there was something like amusement in her gaze, something warmer than her usual smirking detachment.

“Enjoying the show?” Galinda teased.

“Immensely,” Elphaba hummed. “Could be worse.”

“How?”

Elphaba tilted her head toward the window. “The paparazzi are probably outside.”

Galinda froze mid-motion. “What?”

“They probably left the hotel when you didn’t return and assumed you’d be here with me. If they’re not camped outside your place, they’re here.” Elphaba shrugged. “They’re predictable.”

“Oh, perfect.” Galinda pressed her fingers to her temples, willing herself not to spiral.

“I can’t wait for the headline to be, Galinda Upland in last nights clothes.”

Elphaba added, “Does the Walk of Shame from Girlfriend’s Apartment.”

Galinda huffed. “It is not a walk of shame.”

Elphaba raised an eyebrow. “You are frantically putting your clothes back on after sneaking out of bed. If the shoe fits…”

Galinda threw a pillow at her.

Elphaba caught it easily, smirking. “Touchy.”

Still, as Galinda started gathering the rest of her things, reality crept in. “Last night was…unexpected,” she admitted.

Elphaba studied her. “Unexpected how?”

Galinda hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “Not in a bad way. Just, this isn’t what we were supposed to be doing.”

Elphaba tilted her head. “And why not?”

Galinda waved a hand between them. “Because we’re faking a relationship, Elphaba, not…” She gestured vaguely. “This.”

Elphaba stretched, unbothered. “And why is this off-limits?”

Galinda blinked. “Because it complicates things?”

Elphaba made a thoughtful sound, watching her closely. “Does it,” Galinda scoffed. “Of course it does! If we start sleeping together…”

“We already started,” Elphaba interrupted, lips twitching.

Galinda rolled her eyes. “You know what I mean. This should be strictly professional.”

Elphaba snorted. “Professional? We’re pretending to be in love for the tabloids. That’s not exactly a business contract.”

“It’s an arrangement,” Galinda corrected. “We have rules.”

Elphaba smirked. “We never made any rules about this.”

Galinda opened her mouth, then closed it, annoyed to find that Elphaba had a point.

Elphaba pushed herself up, her expression turning thoughtful. “We spend all this time pretending and putting ourselves out there for strangers. Doesn’t it make sense that there should be some benefit in all of this for us?”

Galinda frowned. “What are you saying?”

“I’m saying…” Elphaba’s gaze flickered over her, sharp and assessing. “You can’t deny we have incredible chemistry in the bedroom. What’s the harm in us having fun?”

Galinda’s breath caught. “Fun.”

Elphaba nodded, as if it were the simplest thing in the world. “No strings, no expectations. Just…” She leaned in slightly. “Enjoying ourselves.”

Galinda hesitated, but there was no denying the heat curling in her stomach.

Elphaba’s voice was softer when she spoke again. “Did you enjoy it?”

Galinda’s stomach flipped.

She should lie. She should roll her eyes and scoff and make some flippant remark. She should.

Instead, she lifted her chin and smirked. “You heard me last night.”

Elphaba let out a slow, appreciative laugh, her eyes dark with something unmistakable. “Oh, I did.” She leaned forward slightly, voice dropping to something nearly sinful. “And I so enjoyed hearing you. Over. And over. All night.”

Galinda’s breath hitched before she could stop it.

Elphaba smirked.

Flustered, Galinda huffed and turned sharply on her heel, marching toward the kitchen. “I need coffee.”

Elphaba chuckled, watching her retreat. “Told you.”

Later that afternoon, Elphaba settled into her chair with a sigh, shuffling through the stack of reports on her desk. The morning had been uneventful, which was rare enough to be unsettling. But she wasn’t naive enough to believe it would last. It never did.

Right on cue, there was a sharp knock at her office door before it swung open without waiting for permission.

Fiyero.

Elphaba didn’t even look up. “You only ever come in here when there’s bad news.”

Fiyero grinned, leaning lazily against the doorway. “What, I can’t just stop by to say good morning?”

Elphaba gave him a flat look.

He held up his hands. “Alright, fine. You caught me. But to be fair, this time it’s not bad news. Just, news.”

Elphaba leaned back, rubbing her temples. “I’m listening.”

Fiyero stepped fully into the office, closing the door behind him. “There’s a lot of talk going around about what happened at the shareholders’ dinner last night.”

Elphaba snorted. “Oh, I’m sure.”

Fiyero dropped into the chair across from her, resting an ankle over his knee. “So, what actually happened?”

Elphaba scoffed, tossing a pen onto her desk. “Avaric was being a lecherous idiot, as usual. He started asking Galinda about her sex scenes, and then…” She exhaled sharply, jaw tightening. “He put his hand on her knee.”

Fiyero’s face darkened. “You’re kidding.”

“Wish I was.” Elphaba’s voice was low, dangerous. “He’s lucky I didn’t punch him.”

Fiyero let out a humourless chuckle. “Honestly, I wish you had.”

Elphaba smirked. “Me too.”

Fiyero sighed, shaking his head. “Avaric’s always been a creep, but this is a new low. You think Galinda’s alright?”

“She handled herself,” Elphaba said. “But that doesn’t mean she should have to.” Fiyero hummed in agreement. “You’re really in deep, aren’t you?”

Elphaba narrowed her eyes. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Fiyero smirked knowingly. “Nothing.”

Elphaba rolled her eyes. “Go be annoying somewhere else.”

He held up his hands in surrender, standing. “Alright, alright. But for what it’s worth? I think you did the right thing.”

Elphaba didn’t respond, but something in her shoulders relaxed.

Fiyero gave her one last smirk before slipping out the door.

Elphaba barely looked up as the office door swung open again. She expected Fiyero, back to make another irritating remark, but instead, it was Nessa.

Her younger sister moved with her usual quiet confidence, balancing a stack of papers on her lap, as she made her way to the desk. “I just ran into Fiyero,” she said, setting the papers down with a neat tap. “He was smirking.”

Elphaba sighed. “He exists in a constant state of smirking.”

Nessa arched an eyebrow. “Yes, but this one was particular. He said something about you being in deep?”

Elphaba rolled her eyes. “Ignore him.”

Nessa hummed but didn’t press further. Instead, she glanced at Elphaba’s desk, noting the mess of reports and an untouched cup of coffee that had long since gone cold.

“I actually came by for something else,” Nessa said, folding her hands neatly in front of her. “I wanted to say that I’m happy for you.”

Elphaba blinked. “What?”

“With Galinda,” Nessa clarified, smiling softly. “I know I haven’t said much about it yet, but I think it’s nice. I just hope she makes you happy.”

Elphaba’s stomach twisted with something unpleasant. Guilt.

Because Nessa didn’t know the truth.

Didn’t know that none of this was real, that Galinda wasn’t actually her girlfriend, that their so-called relationship was a carefully orchestrated arrangement.

And Nessa was sitting here, smiling, thinking Elphaba had finally found someone.

Elphaba cleared her throat, forcing a tight nod. “That’s…nice of you to say.”

Nessa tilted her head. “You haven’t even introduced me to her yet.”

Elphaba exhaled slowly, willing herself to sound casual. “I’ve been busy.”

“Too busy to introduce your girlfriend to your own sister?” Nessa asked, giving her a knowing look.

Elphaba hesitated. “She’s flying back to LA tomorrow anyway.”

Nessa’s eyes lit up. “Then tonight.”

Elphaba stilled. “What?”

“You and Galinda should come to dinner with me and Boq tonight,” Nessa said easily. “Before she leaves.”

“No.” The answer came out too fast, too sharp.

Nessa frowned. “Why not?”

Elphaba searched for a good reason, but all she had were bad ones.

Because it wasn’t real.

Because Nessa would ask too many questions.

Because sitting at dinner with her sister and Galinda, pretending they were a normal couple, pretending they were anything, it was too much.

“I…”

“Elphaba.” Nessa’s voice was softer now, coaxing. “I never ask you for things like this. But I want to meet her.”

“You’ll meet her eventually.”

“I want to meet her now.”

Elphaba rubbed her temples. “I don’t think-”

“You’re overthinking,” Nessa cut in. “It’s just dinner.”

“It’s not just dinner.”

Nessa folded her arms. “Then what is it?”

Elphaba scowled. “A headache waiting to happen.”

Nessa sighed. “You know, I’d almost believe you if I didn’t know you better.”

Elphaba gave her a tired look. “And what does that mean?”

“It means,” Nessa said, voice gentle, “that you get like this when you’re nervous about something.”

Elphaba scoffed. “I’m not nervous.”

“You are.”

“I’m not.”

Nessa gave her a knowing smile. “So you’ll come?”

Elphaba groaned. “Nessa…”

“I mean, it’s fine if you don’t…” Nessa added, with a light, almost teasing shrug. “Boq and I will have a lovely evening, just the two of us. And I’m sure Galinda will be so disappointed.”

Elphaba narrowed her eyes. “That’s manipulative.”

“I learned from the best.” Nessa smiled sweetly.

Elphaba exhaled sharply, drumming her fingers against the desk. “Fine.”

Nessa beamed. “Wonderful.”

“I’ll ask her,” Elphaba clarified.

“She’ll say yes.”

Elphaba rolled her eyes. “Go do your actual job, Nessa.”

Nessa smirked. “See you at dinner, Elphaba.”

Elphaba groaned as her sister swept out of the office, far too pleased with herself.

Now she had to text Galinda.

Elphaba was halfway through a mind-numbing budget report when her phone buzzed.

A text. From Galinda.

She raised a brow but unlocked her phone, opening the message.

Galinda had sent a link with no context.

Curious, Elphaba tapped on it.

A gossip site loaded, and right at the top was a photo of Galinda.

Leaving her building. In yesterday’s dress.

The caption beneath it read:

Galinda Upland Leaves in Yesterday’s Clothes from Elphaba Thropp’s Apartment. Can’t they get enough of each other?

Elphaba blinked.

Then blinked again.

Her phone buzzed with another message.

Galinda: “I hate them.”

A pause.

Galinda: “Also, I blame you.”

Elphaba leaned back in her chair, entirely amused.

Elphaba: “I don’t recall forcing you out my door at 8 a.m. looking exactly like someone sneaking out after a night of questionable decisions.”

Galinda: “I was NOT sneaking!”

Elphaba: “Oh, no, of course not. The oversized sunglasses at sunrise were just a fashion statement?”

Galinda: “I didn’t want to be seen looking like I’d just rolled out of bed.”

Elphaba: “Galinda, you were wearing yesterday’s dress. It was a walk of shame if I’ve ever seen one.”

Galinda: “You’re insufferable.”

Elphaba took a moment to think about how she should ask her next question. 

Elphaba: “Tragic.”

Galinda: “Tragic?”

Elphaba: “That I won’t get to see that very flushed, very satisfied little face of yours in person for a while.”

Galinda: “You are impossible.”

Elphaba: “And yet, you love spending time with me.”

Galinda: “I endure spending time with you.”

Elphaba: “Mmm. You definitely weren’t just enduring last night.”

Galinda: “ELPHABA.”

Elphaba: “What? Just saying, if the paparazzi had aimed their cameras at my window last night, they would’ve gotten quite the exclusive.”

Galinda: “I cannot believe you just said that.”

Elphaba: “Oh, come on. If they’re going to speculate, they might as well have accurate material.”

Galinda: “Elphaba.”

Elphaba: “What? Not my fault you’re still blushing about it.”

Galinda: “I am not blushing.”

Elphaba: “That’s cute. You think lying works on me.”

Galinda: “I hate you.”

Elphaba: “No, you don’t.”

Galinda: “I should.”

Elphaba: “But you don’t.”

Galinda: “UGH.”

Elphaba: “How about I make it up to you?”

Galinda: “I’m not sure I want to even ask how.”

Elphaba: “Well you got caught doing the walk of shame from mine this morning, so I’ll help you out by getting photographed leaving your hotel tomorrow.”

Galinda: “Heroic.”

Elphaba: “I’ve already been told I’ve got to accompany you to the airport tomorrow, so it makes sense.”

Galinda: “Oh, does it?”

Elphaba: “For convenience, of course.”

Galinda: “Convenience.”

Elphaba: “Mhm. And, you know, maybe because we both know last night wasn’t enough.”

Another pause.

Then…

Galinda: “So you’re just inviting yourself to my hotel, then?”

Elphaba: “How about you think about last night, really think about it, and then tell me you don’t want me there?”

Galinda: …

Elphaba smirked, watching the typing bubble appear, disappear, then appear again.

Galinda: “You’re awfully sure of yourself.”

Elphaba: “The chemistry’s undeniable, Galinda. Why waste the opportunity? Who knows when we will next get the chance…”

A long pause.

Then…

Galinda: “Fine.”

Elphaba grinned.

Elphaba: “Good choice.”

Galinda: “You’d better not make me regret this.”

Elphaba: “No one has ever regretted letting me stay the night.”

Galinda: “You’re impossible.”

Elphaba: “And yet, here we are.”

Galinda didn’t reply.

But Elphaba had a feeling she was smiling.

“You’re going to wear a hole through that if you’re not careful,” Elphaba remarked dryly, though her lips twitched with a hint of amusement.

“I’m not nervous,” Galinda replied, the slight tremor in her voice betraying her. “It’s just…well, I suppose I might be. A little.”

“A little?” Elphaba arched a dark brow. “You’ve been checking your reflection in the window for the past ten minutes.”

Galinda huffed. “I’m meeting your sister, Elphie.”

“And she’s not half as terrifying as you’re making her out to be,” Elphaba interrupted, though her expression softened. “Nessa’s kind. Stubborn, but kind.”

“That’s not what I’m worried about,” Galinda muttered, wringing her hands. “What if she sees through us? What if she takes one look at me and just knows?”

“She won’t.” Elphaba’s tone was firm, but the knot in her own stomach betrayed her confidence. Nessa had always seen right through her, the idea of deceiving her was more than unsettling. But there was no turning back now.

Galinda shifted closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “What if she asks how we met? Or about our first date? Or…”

“Then we stick to the story,” Elphaba said simply. “We’ve rehearsed it enough.”

Galinda nodded, but her nerves were far from eased. “And if she doesn’t like me?”

Elphaba blinked at her, momentarily baffled. “Why wouldn’t she like you?”

Galinda gave a small, exasperated laugh. “Elphie, I’m practically lying to her face. I’d hate me too.”

Elphaba shook her head. “She’s going to like you. You’re impossible not to like.” Her voice softened. “And besides, it’s only dinner.”

The words were meant to be reassuring, but as the car slowed to a stop in front of Nessa and Boq’s apartment, Elphaba wasn’t sure which one of them she was trying to convince.

The door to Nessa and Boq’s apartment swung open, revealing Nessa’s beaming face. She wore a chic, fitted blouse and elegant slacks, her hair pinned back in a perfect twist.

“Elphaba!” she greeted, pulling her sister into a brief, warm hug. “And Galinda. It’s so lovely to meet you.”

Galinda smiled brightly. “It’s wonderful to finally meet you too, Nessa. Thank you so much for having us.”

Nessa’s eyes softened. “Of course. Come in, come in.”

Elphaba stepped inside, Galinda following close behind. The apartment was warm and tastefully decorated, with shelves lined with books and framed photos.

From around the corner, Boq appeared, adjusting his glasses nervously. “Hi,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. “It’s nice to see you both.”

“Hello, Boq,” Elphaba said, her lips twitching. 

He nodded, swallowing hard. His gaze darted to Galinda before quickly looking away, his cheeks already beginning to colour. “Um, welcome. Can I get anyone something to drink? Water? Wine?”

“Wine sounds lovely,” Galinda said, flashing him a dazzling smile.

Boq nodded without hesitation. “Yes! Absolutely. Right away.” He hurried off toward the kitchen.

Elphaba arched a brow, amusement gleaming in her eyes. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen him move that fast.”

Nessa sighed with a fond shake of her head. “He’s just a little… starstruck.”

“Starstruck?” Galinda repeated, surprised.

Nessa nodded, lowering her voice just slightly. “He’s a fan of yours. He doesn’t know what to do with himself.”

Elphaba snorted. “A fan? Boq?”

At that moment, Boq returned, carefully balancing a tray of wine glasses. He set it down on the coffee table, visibly trying to keep his hands steady. “Here we are.”

Elphaba grinned, far too pleased. “So, Boq,” she began innocently, picking up her glass. “I hear you’re a fan.”

Boq’s face turned an alarming shade of red. “I, um…I wouldn’t say…I mean…” He looked desperately at Nessa, but she only smiled knowingly.

“Oh, come on, Boq,” Elphaba teased. “Out with it.”

“I just…I really like the Midnight Crown trilogy,” he finally blurted, his voice cracking slightly. “Your performance was… amazing. Truly.”

Galinda, ever gracious, gave him a warm smile. “Thank you so much. That’s very kind of you.”

Boq nodded, his ears still burning.

Elphaba, never one to let an opportunity slide, smirked. “Nessa, you do know your husband has a bit of a crush on my girlfriend, don’t you?”

Boq nearly choked on his wine. “I…what? No, I…”

Nessa laughed, patting Boq’s knee. “It’s alright, dear. I don’t think Galinda will steal you away from me.”

They moved to the dining table, which was beautifully set with candles and a centerpiece of fresh flowers. Boq kissed Nessa on the cheek as he sat, a gesture that made Galinda smile.

“Thank you again for inviting me,” Galinda said as they all settled. “It’s so nice to see where Elphie’s family lives. You have a lovely home.”

“Thank you,” Nessa replied, genuinely touched. “We’ve been here a few years now.”

Galinda nodded. “How did you two meet?”

Nessa’s face brightened. “At college. We were in the same business class.”

Boq chuckled softly. “She was always the smartest one in the room. I spent most of the semester trying to impress her.”

“You did,” Nessa said with a smile, giving his hand a squeeze. “Eventually.”

“I’m sure she was a tough critic,” Elphaba remarked, sipping her wine.

“She still is,” Boq replied dryly, though there was nothing but affection in his voice.

Nessa smiled, then turned to Galinda with a playful glint in her eye. “I have to ask…Elphaba’s treating you well, right?”

Galinda didn’t hesitate. She smiled softly, leaned over, and kissed Elphaba on the cheek. “She’s a wonderful girlfriend.”

Elphaba blinked, visibly thrown off.

Nessa laughed, raising an eyebrow. “Who are you, and where have you hidden my sister?”

Boq grinned. “I was wondering the same thing.”

Elphaba groaned. “Unbelievable. I walk into one dinner and suddenly it’s open season.”

Nessa just winked. “You make it too easy.”

Elphaba rolled her eyes, fighting a smile.

Galinda laughed and then leaned in slightly, to ask her next question. “Do you work with Elphie now, Nessa?”

“I’m the head of the charitable division,” Nessa said, a note of pride in her voice. “I’ve recently been putting most of my energy into organising our charity gala. It’s in a few months time.”

“A gala?” Galinda’s smile brightened. “That sounds wonderful. What’s the cause?”

“This year, we’re raising funds for the local children’s hospital,” Nessa explained. “The goal is to help grant wishes for sick children and support their families with medical expenses.”

Galinda’s expression softened. “That’s an amazing cause.”

“Thank you,” Nessa replied, visibly touched. “We’re really hoping to make a substantial impact. I’ve actually added an auction this year to help with that. It’s a bit of a new approach for us, but I’m optimistic.”

“Oh?” Galinda tilted her head. “What kind of auction?”

Nessa’s lips curled into a small smile. “We’re auctioning off the opportunity to have dinner with certain people. Local celebrities, philanthropists, business leaders… It’s a way to create a memorable experience while raising as much as possible.”

“That’s a brilliant idea,” Galinda said with genuine admiration.

“Well, we’re hoping so,” Nessa replied, brushing a stray strand of hair behind her ear. “It’s always a gamble, but if we can attract the right people, it could make a world of difference.”

There was a brief pause as Galinda’s mind seemed to work through something. Then, she glanced thoughtfully at Nessa. “Do you still need more people for the auction?”

Nessa blinked. “More people?”

“Yes, to volunteer,” Galinda said, keeping her tone casual, though Elphaba could feel the slight shift in the air. “It sounds like a wonderful opportunity to raise even more for the hospital.”

“Well, we’re always looking for more participants,” Nessa said slowly, clearly trying to read Galinda’s expression. “Do you know someone who might be interested?”

“I do, actually,” Galinda said, her voice light. “Me.”

The room went silent.

“You?” Nessa blinked, as though trying to confirm she’d heard correctly. Boq, who had been mid-sip of his wine, froze, his glass hovering in the air.

Elphaba’s head whipped toward Galinda, eyes narrowing. “You don’t have to do that.”

“I want to,” Galinda insisted, unfazed. “It’s an incredible cause, and if a dinner with me can help raise a significant amount to help sick children, then I’m more than happy to participate.”

“But…” Elphaba started, though she wasn’t entirely sure what argument she was going to make. It was impossible to deny the effect Galinda’s involvement would have. She wasn’t just a celebrity, she was Galinda Upland. A massive star. The kind of name that would undoubtedly bring in an astronomical bid.

“You’re serious?” Nessa finally said, still processing.

Galinda nodded, offering a warm smile. “Completely. I’d be honoured to help.”

Boq gawked at her, his mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. “That’s…that’s…”

“Incredible,” Nessa finished, her voice soft with disbelief. “Galinda, this is beyond generous. We would be thrilled to have you participate.”

Elphaba shot Galinda a look, her brow furrowing. “Are you sure you know what you’re getting yourself into?”

Galinda turned toward her, the amusement dancing in her eyes. “What’s the worst that could happen? Someone bids on a dinner with me, we raise a lot of money, and I spend an evening charming a stranger.” She tilted her head, teasing. “It wouldn’t be the first time.”

Elphaba scowled, though there was no real heat behind it. “I’m just saying, I’ll be keeping an eye on your husband,” she quipped to Nessa, “just in case he tries to bid on a dinner with my girlfriend.”

Boq, who was still visibly flustered, sputtered. “I…what? No, I…”

The wicked glint in Elphaba’s eyes suggested she was thoroughly enjoying herself.

Nessa laughed, shaking her head. “Ignore her. She’s impossible.”

“Oh, I’m quite used to that,” Galinda replied, her gaze lingering on Elphaba. Her expression softened just slightly, enough for Elphaba to catch it. “But I promise, I’m happy to help. Truly.”

Nessa reached across the table, clasping Galinda’s hand warmly. “Thank you. This means the world to us, to the children and their families. Your generosity is going to make such a difference.”

Galinda squeezed Nessa’s hand in return. “I’m glad.”

Elphaba, still a little unsettled, reached for her wine. She knew Galinda had meant well, but it didn’t make the uneasy warmth in her chest disappear. She wasn’t entirely sure what was bothering her more, the fact that Galinda had selflessly volunteered for the auction, or the fact that it made her look at Galinda a little differently.

But she didn’t dwell on it. Not with Galinda smiling like that, radiant and charming, as though it was the most natural thing in the world.

And as the evening continued, laughter and conversation filling the space once more, Elphaba couldn’t shake the thought that Galinda had, once again, found a way to surprise her.

As the evening drew to a close, Nessa clasped Galinda’s hand. “Thank you again. For tonight, and for your generosity.”

Galinda smiled softly. “It’s my pleasure.”

And though Elphaba would never admit it, watching her girlfriend, fake or otherwise, so effortlessly win over her sister and brother-in-law left her with an unfamiliar warmth she couldn’t quite shake.

The front door closed as Elphaba and Galinda  stepped onto the dimly lit street. Nessa lingered by the window, watching them go, a soft smile still on her face.

Nessa turned back to Boq, who was tidying up the wine glasses, still visibly flustered. She sat down on the couch, her hands resting in her lap.

Nessa sighed happily, “I really like her.”

Boq looked up, surprised. “Galinda?”

“Mm-hmm. She’s charming, warm…and I’ve never seen Elphaba smile that much.”

Boq paused to consider her words. “She did seem… different. Lighter.”

Nessa’s eyes shined with excitement. “Exactly. It makes me so happy to see her like that. I just hope this lasts and she doesn’t mess it up.”

Boq smiled softly, settling beside her. “Me too.”

Galinda and Elphaba sat in the back of the car, city lights flickering past through the tinted windows. Elphaba stared out, her face partially illuminated by the passing street lamps. She hasn’t spoken since they left.

Galinda shifted, glancing at her and eventually broke the silence. “You’ve been quiet.”

Elphaba didn’t make any movement of acknowledgement.

Galinda tried again. “Did I… do something?”

That made Elphaba turn, startled by the question. “No. No, of course not.”

She squeezed Galinda’s hand to reassure her, but turned back towards the window.

She stayed silent for the rest of the car ride back to the hotel, her jaw set as she stared out the window. The neon city lights illuminated her sharp features, but her face was unreadable. She was moody, the weight of the evening still lingering on her shoulders. Galinda could sense it; the tension in the set of Elphaba’s shoulders, the way her fingers drummed against her thigh.

Galinda kicked off her heels the second she stepped through the door of her LA home, the soft thud echoing through the pristine space. Everything was exactly how she’d left it; spotless, luxurious, lifeless.

She tossed her handbag onto the side, resisting the urge to check her phone again. The notifications had been relentless since she landed, blurry paparazzi shots plastered across every gossip site. She and Elphaba, hand in hand. That goodbye kiss, perfectly framed. Hollywood’s New Power Couple, the headlines declared.

Galinda scoffed under her breath. Power couple. Right.

But the image haunted her. The way Elphaba’s hand had lingered on her waist, the warmth of her lips. For a moment, Galinda had almost forgotten it was all for show.

She hated how easy it had been. Hated how much she missed her already.

“God,” she muttered, raking a hand through her hair. “What am I doing?”

Her gaze caught on the silver-framed mirror hanging by the door. She barely recognised herself. The golden waves, the subtle, but immaculate makeup, the designer jacket slung carelessly over her shoulders, it was all so perfectly curated. Exactly what people expected Galinda Upland to be. But beneath it, she just felt…tired.

She needed a distraction. Something to drown out the swirling thoughts that clung to her. Without thinking, she grabbed her phone and scrolled through her contacts, until her thumb hovered over a name.

Crope would fix this.

She hit the FaceTime button and held her breath as the call rang.

“Yoo-hoo, blondie!” Crope’s grinning face filled the screen, his blue hair styled to absolute perfection. Behind him, the vivid blue walls of his salon gleamed, dotted with ornate gold framed mirrors. The chatter of clients and the faint hum of hairdryers buzzed in the background.

“Finally back from your romantic getaway, I see,” he teased, his eyes sparkling. “How was it? Did you stare longingly into each other’s eyes? Feed each other chocolate covered strawberries?”

Galinda plastered on a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Something like that.”

“Oh, come on!” Crope threw his free hand in the air. “Give me the details, darling. The internet is frothing over you two. And honestly, if you tell me it wasn’t incredible, I’ll be personally offended.”

She swallowed. The last thing she wanted was to talk about Elphaba, not when every thought of her sent a fresh pang of frustration through her chest. But Crope’s enthusiasm was relentless, and lying to him felt impossible.

“It was…” She hesitated. “Eventful.”

“That is not a story,” Crope deadpanned. “That’s a press statement. I want scandal, passion, accidental skinny dipping!”

Galinda laughed despite herself. “Sorry to disappoint. No skinny dipping.”

Crope gasped. “Well, that’s tragic. But I’m sure you made up for it in other ways.” He waggled his brows, and Galinda could practically hear the smirk in his voice. “I mean, the airport pictures? Steamier than a sauna at a Palm Springs resort.”

Galinda’s stomach twisted. She forced another laugh, ignoring the heat creeping up her neck. “They really caught everything, huh?”

“Everything. And babe? You two looked good.” Crope sighed dreamily. “Elphaba’s got that whole broody, sexy, probably has commitment issues vibe. And you? Perfect goddess. Ugh. I’d kill to have even half your photogenic drama.”

Galinda shifted uncomfortably. “It’s not that dramatic.”

“Oh, honey.” Crope narrowed his eyes playfully. “You don’t get to be modest when half the world is calling you The It Couple of the Year.”

Galinda bit the inside of her cheek. If only he knew how wrong they all were. How none of it was real. But she wasn’t ready to admit that. Not yet.

“Well, since you’re so fascinated with my non-existent drama,” she drawled, “why don’t you and Tibbett come over? I need a proper catch-up.”

Crope gasped, dramatically clutching his chest. “An invitation from Hollywood royalty? I’m honoured.” Then he sobered, his grin softening. “Seriously though, you okay? You sound… I don’t know. Not your usual fabulous self.”

“I’m fine,” Galinda said quickly. Too quickly. “Just tired. I could really use a night in with my favourite people.”

“Then it’s a date!” Crope’s grin returned. “We’ll bring wine. And gossip. And Tibbett will probably try to emotionally diagnose you after his second glass.”

“That sounds perfect.”

“And wear something cute,” Crope declared. “No sad pyjamas allowed.”

Galinda saluted him playfully. “Yes, sir.”

The call ended, leaving Galinda alone once more. The house seemed even quieter now, the emptiness more glaring.

But at least for tonight, she wouldn’t have to sit with it. Crope and Tibbett would bring laughter and chaos, and for a few hours, she could pretend.

Pretend she wasn’t thinking about Elphaba.

Pretend she wasn’t already counting down the days until she saw her again.

Galinda practically leapt into Crope and Tibbett’s arms the moment she opened the door, the sheer joy of seeing them after weeks away washing over her. Crope squealed dramatically, nearly dropping the bottle of wine in his hand, while Tibbett enveloped her in a warm, lingering hug.

“Oh, how I’ve missed my favorite disaster,” Crope declared, stepping back to admire her. “New York did you well, darling. You’re glowing. Either that’s the city air, or you’re about to tell us something scandalous.”

Galinda laughed, ushering them inside. “Please, no scandals tonight. Just wine, gossip, and my best friends.”

Her home felt warmer with them in it; Crope’s laughter echoing through the space and Tibbett’s occasional hum of approval as he admired her latest decor changes. They kicked off their shoes, flopped onto her couch, and Crope immediately began pouring the wine.

“To your triumphant return!” Tibbett cheered, raising his glass.

Galinda clinked glasses with them, the first sip already making her shoulders relax. “And to you two. I don’t think I could have survived this month without your constant memes and questionable advice.”

“Questionable? Rude,” Crope scoffed. “I give you nothing but top-tier wisdom. Like when I told you that silk is the enemy of humidity.”

“And I told you not to cry on camera unless you’re near good lighting,” Tibbett added with a grin.

“See?” Galinda teased. “Invaluable.”

They fell into easy conversation, trading stories of salon gossip and the latest disastrous dates had by friends . Every time the subject teetered toward Galinda’s trip or, God forbid, Elphaba, she quickly pivoted. She asked about Tibbett’s latest writing gig, Crope’s ongoing feud with a rival stylist (“He called my highlights derivative! The audacity!”), and even indulged in a twenty minute breakdown of a reality show she hadn’t even watched.

But they weren’t idiots.

“So,” Crope drawled, refilling their glasses for the third time. “New York.”

“It was nice.”

Tibbett raised an eyebrow. “That’s it?”

Galinda shifted, plastering on her brightest smile. “Busy. Lots of meetings. You know how it is.”

“And Elphaba?” Crope asked pointedly.

Galinda’s fingers tightened around her glass. “She’s… Elphaba.”

Crope blinked. “Wow. Thank you for that poetic insight.”

“I just…we had fun,” she said, a little too quickly. “You saw the pictures.”

“You don’t say,” Tibbett deadpanned. “Because I wouldn’t know. I had to find out about your relationship from the internet.”

Crope gasped, hand dramatically to his chest. “Betrayed. Scorned. I thought we were your confidants, Galinda!”

“I meant to tell you,” she rushed, the tipsiness making it harder to form a convincing excuse. “It all happened so fast.”

“Fast?” Tibbett leaned forward, grinning. “Oh, we know.”

“We’re just dying to know the details,” Crope added with a wicked gleam. “The romance. The scandal. Did she serenade you on the balcony of your hotel? Or was it all hot, forbidden glances across crowded rooms?”

Galinda laughed nervously. “You two watch too many rom-coms.”

“And you,” Crope said, eyes narrowing playfully, “are avoiding the question.”

“I’m not!”

“Oh, honey.” Tibbett shook his head. “You are.”

Galinda opened her mouth to protest, but the words tangled. She’d kept up the facade for days, smiled for the cameras, given just the right amount of coyness in interviews; and yet, here, with Crope and Tibbett looking at her like they could see every crack in her story, the truth sat far too close to the surface. Her gaze flickered away, and before she could stop herself, she blurted, “Okay, fine! It’s fake. The whole thing is fake.”

Crope blinked, then grinned like he’d just won the lottery. Tibbett’s mouth fell open.

‘Wait,’ Tibbett sputtered. ‘What?’

Crope’s eyes widened. “Are you serious? The dramatic PR manoeuvre? Please. Spill.”

Galinda groaned, dragging a hand down her face. “You cannot tell anyone.”

“As if we’d ever,” Crope gasped, clutching his invisible pearls. “But darling, we must know everything.”

“Fine,” she mumbled, heat rushing to her cheeks. “The video? From the bar? That was…real.”

Crope and Tibbett exchanged a look, confusion flickering between them.

“Real how?” Tibbett asked slowly.

“Like, real real?” Crope pressed. “You’re telling me the video wasn’t staged? You two were just…what…passionately making out for the fun of it?”

Galinda groaned. “I met her that night.” She took a large sip of wine, as if that might make it easier. “In the bar. We were both a little drunk, and one thing led to another, and… well.”

“Well?” Crope leaned forward eagerly.

“And we hooked up,” she mumbled. “It was a one-night stand. Or it was supposed to be. Then someone filmed it, and it blew up, and now…” She gestured vaguely. “Fake relationship.”

Crope squealed. “A one-night stand? With broody Elphaba Thropp? Iconic.”

“And then,” Galinda continued, “Pfanee thought fake dating would be the only way to save my reputation.”

Tibbett was positively glowing with excitement. “This is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

But Crope wasn’t done. “So you’re telling me,” he said, eyes sparkling, “that you’re in a fake relationship. Everyone thinks you’re off the market. Which means…” He gasped dramatically. “You’re celibate.”

Galinda blinked, still too tipsy to filter her response. “Who said anything about me being celibate?”

The room went silent for half a second. Then:

“WHAT?”

Crope nearly fell off the couch. Tibbett’s mouth hung open in shock.

“With who?” Tibbett demanded. “What if the media catches you with someone else?”

Galinda shrugged, her grin turning sly. “What can the media say if I’m caught with my fake girlfriend?”

The scream they let out echoed through the apartment.

“You’re sleeping with her?!” Crope howled, clutching Tibbett’s arm for support.

“Oh my god,” Tibbett breathed. “But the real question we both want to know…” He narrowed his eyes. “Is she a top? Because she is giving Big Thropp Top Energy.” He sighed dreamily. “Honestly, I wouldn’t blame you. You’ve been to the promised land. You know the secrets. And you’re holding out on us?”

“I am not discussing my sex life with you.”

“Then confirm it’s good…no…confirm if it’s the best you’ve had,” Tibbett pressed, his grin wide. “Just one nod. One tiny nod, and we’ll shut up.”

Galinda tried, truly, to resist. But the moment she thought about Elphaba; the way her hands gripped, her mouth teased, the sharp, intoxicating feeling of being completely undone, her resolve crumbled. A small, entirely involuntary smile pulled at her lips. And then, with the slightest tilt of her head, she nodded.

The scream Crope and Tibbett let out was ear-splitting.

“OH MY GOD!” Crope practically launched himself across the couch. “You are fake dating the best sex of your life?! This is a crime.”

“It’s a privilege, actually,” Galinda quipped, though the wine was making her bold. “And one I am thoroughly enjoying.”

“I’m going to pass away,” Tibbett declared dramatically, clutching his chest. “This is better than any book I’ve ever read. And I read the good stuff.”

“But wait,” Crope cut in, narrowing his eyes once more. “You’re saying she doesn’t do relationships. But you’re also saying she’s still sleeping with you.”

“Correct.”

“While fake dating you.”

“Correct.”

“And neither of you have feelings.”

Galinda opened her mouth, then closed it. “That’s… what we agreed.”

“Delicious,” Tibbett declared.

But as the laughter faded, Crope narrowed his eyes, sensing there was still something left unsaid. He waved Tibbett off to fetch another bottle of wine and, once they were alone, turned to Galinda.

“What?” she asked, feigning innocence.

“You’re still holding back.”

“I’m not!”

“Galinda.” Crope’s voice softened. “I’m your best friend. I can tell when you’re not being honest.”

She hesitated, but the weight of the secret was unbearable. And if anyone could understand and keep it, it was Crope.

“I think…” She exhaled shakily. “I think I’ve fallen for her.”

Crope blinked. “And that’s bad?”

“She doesn’t do relationships,” Galinda murmured. “She was clear about that.”

Crope rolled his eyes. “Just because she says that, doesn’t mean she doesn’t have feelings.”

“That’s ridiculous.”

“Oh, honey.” He smirked. “You’re the actress, not her. Whatever she’s putting out there? I’d bet good money that it’s real.”

Galinda’s heart pounded. “You really think so?”

“I know so. And you should tell her. You two are, like, offensively sexy together.”

Before she could respond, Tibbett returned, bottle in hand, demanding to know what he’d missed. Crope shot Galinda a questioning glance. She nodded.

“Babe,” Crope said, barely containing his grin. “You are not ready for this.”

Tibbett’s eyes darted between them, the wine bottle still clutched dramatically in his hand. “Wait. What did I miss?”

“Oh, just the minor detail that our darling Galinda has fallen head over heels for her fake girlfriend,” Crope sing-songed, practically vibrating with excitement.

“Shut up,” Tibbett gasped, rushing to refill their glasses. “You’re in love with Elphaba Thropp? This is better than the season finale of Real Housewives.”

“I didn’t say I was in love,” Galinda protested weakly, though the warmth rushing to her cheeks suggested otherwise.

“Darling,” Crope said, giving her a knowing look. “You did. And you are.”

Galinda slumped back against the couch, clutching her wine like a lifeline. “It doesn’t matter. She doesn’t do relationships. She said so.”

“People say a lot of things,” Tibbett chimed in, plopping down beside her. “But actions speak louder. And from what I’ve seen, her actions are giving emotionally unavailable lesbian who caught feelings and is freaking out.”

Crope nodded in agreement. “Exactly. I mean, I saw those airport photos. She looked like a whole moody Victorian heroine in a corset, practically swooning over you.”

“She was glaring at the paparazzi,” Galinda corrected, though she couldn’t deny the chemistry was palpable. Even just thinking about the way Elphaba’s hand had lingered on her waist made her stomach flutter.

“And yet,” Crope drawled, “somehow that glare screamed ‘mine.’”

Tibbett gasped. “And let’s not forget the restaurant photos. The way she looked at you? Babe, that wasn’t fake. That was ‘I’m thinking about how to devour you’ energy.”

Galinda groaned, covering her face. “You two are impossible.”

“And yet, always right,” Crope replied smugly. “But okay, let’s get strategic. If we were writing a rom-com, which, let’s face it, we basically are, how would we get your emotionally stunted leading lady to realise she’s madly in love with you?”

Tibbett pointed dramatically. “Option one: jealousy. Find a tall, hot rebound, parade them around town, and let Elphaba seethe.”

Galinda gave him a deadpan look. “And risk her deciding that’s a great excuse to never speak to me again? No thanks.”

“Option two,” Crope continued. “Big, romantic confession. Preferably in the rain. Bonus points if there’s a dramatic kiss involved.”

“She’d laugh in my face,” Galinda muttered, though the image of Elphaba standing in the rain, drenched and furious and heartbreakingly beautiful, flickered in her mind.

“Option three,” Tibbett said, wiggling his eyebrows. “You seduce her. Again. But hold out on her until she confesses her undying love.”

Galinda choked on her wine. “Are you serious?”

“Deadly,” Tibbett replied. “Sexual tension is already your love language. Why not lean into it? One steamy night, a few lingering touches, and bam! She’s begging you to be her girlfriend.”

“Absolutely not.” Galinda shook her head firmly. “I’m not manipulating her like that.”

“Fine, fine,” Crope conceded, though he still looked like he was brainstorming further. “But darling, you’ve got to do something. You can’t just… pine forever.”

“I’m not pining,” she insisted, though the flush on her cheeks said otherwise.

“Okay, sure,” Crope smirked. “You’re just sitting here, clutching your wine, reminiscing about your fake girlfriend’s hands all over you.”

Galinda rolled her eyes.

The laughter was still echoing through the room when Galinda’s phone buzzed on the coffee table. She barely glanced at it at first, assuming it was another notification about the latest headlines. But then she saw the name.

Elphaba.

Her stomach flipped. She snatched the phone before Crope or Tibbett could lean over, already knowing they’d be insufferable about it. But even as she unlocked the screen, she wasn’t prepared for the sheer audacity of the text.

“You looked entirely too good at the airport. It’s unfair, really. I haven’t stopped thinking about taking that outfit off of you. Or that little noise you made when I bit your neck. We should fix that soon.”

Galinda’s face went scarlet.

“Oh. My. God.”

Crope, ever attuned to drama, perked up immediately. “What? Who is it? Why are you blushing like a virgin at a Pride parade?”

“No one!” Galinda squeaked, clutching the phone to her chest. “It’s nothing!”

Tibbett’s eyes narrowed, a gleam of mischief lighting up his face. “It’s her, isn’t it?”

“It’s not…”

“Oh, it’s absolutely her,” Crope crowed. “Give it!”

Before she could react, Crope lunged. Galinda shrieked, holding the phone out of reach, but Crope was nimble and shameless. He wrestled it from her hands with all the determination of a man on a mission.

“Crope! No!” She dove after him, but it was too late. He danced out of reach, phone in hand, his eyes scanning the screen.

The room fell silent. Then:

“OH MY GOD!”

Tibbett practically vaulted over the couch. “What? What did she say?”

“I…” Crope gasped, dramatically fanning himself. “I’m deceased. I have passed away. Tell my mother I died happy.”

“Read it!” Tibbett demanded.

“Absolutely not!” Galinda shrieked, lunging for him again, but Crope spun away, holding the phone aloft like a trophy.

“Oh, it’s not just flirty,” Crope declared, eyes gleaming with glee. “It’s filthy. Your fake girlfriend wants to do unspeakable things to you, and I, for one, support this.”

Tibbett was practically vibrating. “I need the details. What’s her preferred method of seduction? Does she use pet names? Does she bite?”

“Maybe,” Crope teased, wiggling his brows. “And from what I’m reading, she’s very good at it.”

Galinda groaned, burying her face in a throw pillow. “I hate you both.”

“You love us,” Crope singsonged. “Almost as much as Elphaba loves thinking about you.”

“Oh my god.”

Tibbett flopped down next to her, clutching his chest. “This is too much. You’re telling me Big Bad Elphaba is out here sending you sexts like a lesbian vampire on a bender?”

“She’s not…”

“She absolutely is,” Crope interrupted gleefully. “And you love it.”

“I do not!”

Crope arched a perfectly manicured brow. “Then why are you smiling?”

Galinda scowled, but the traitorous curl of her lips gave her away. “I hate you.”

“You’re glowing,” Tibbett pointed out. “Like, actually glowing. Babe, I think that text added five years to your lifespan.”

Crope gasped. “Or shortened it. Depending on what happens next.”

“Can we please change the subject?” Galinda groaned.

“Oh, absolutely not,” Crope said, grinning like a cat with cream. “Babe. That girl is head over heels and doesn’t even know it. And if she does know it, she’s just too stubborn to admit it.”

“You really think so?”

Tibbett nodded firmly. “I’d bet my entire shoe collection on it.”

“And his shoe collection is extensive,” Crope added. “You need to talk to her, Galinda. Feel her out. You might be surprised.”

Galinda chewed on her bottom lip, considering. Maybe they were right. Maybe Elphaba’s actions did say more than her words. And maybe she wasn’t as afraid of the answer as she thought.

“Okay,” she finally said, straightening up. “But no more screaming if I come back with bad news.”

“No promises,” Crope said with a grin. “Now, tell me everything you’re planning to wear. You are legally required to look devastating for this conversation.”

Tibbett beamed. “And I’ll craft the perfect playlist for your ‘I’m confessing my feelings to my fake girlfriend’ moment. It’ll be cinematic.”

Galinda laughed, her heart a little lighter. With Crope and Tibbett on her side, maybe this fake relationship didn’t have to stay fake forever. She chewed on her bottom lip, considering. “Okay,” she said finally. “But not yet. She’s actually going to be here in a couple of weeks for some events.”

“Oh, perfect!” Crope clapped his hands, positively vibrating with excitement. “You’ll be glowing and mysterious, and she won’t be able to resist.”

Tibbett raised his glass dramatically. “We love a well-timed romantic confrontation. Classic third-act energy.”

But Galinda shook her head, the smile fading slightly. “I don’t know. After those events, there’s this gap where we don’t have anything planned. A few weeks with no appearances, no press. Just… space.” She twisted the stem of her wine glass between her fingers. “Maybe that would be good. For both of us.”

Crope tilted his head, studying her carefully. “You think you need space?”

“I think she might,” Galinda said softly. “And maybe I do too. Just to figure things out without all the noise. I think maybe I’ll have this conversation after then, if I’m still feeling this way.”

Tibbett’s expression softened. “That makes sense.”

“And who knows?” Galinda tried for a smile. “Maybe she’ll miss me.”

“Oh, babe.” Crope grinned, reaching over to squeeze her hand. “She already does. She just hasn’t figured it out yet.”

Galinda exhaled slowly, a flicker of hope curling in her chest.

The streets of New York buzzed with their usual chaos; impatient horns blaring, people weaving through crosswalks, and the scent of roasted coffee and city air. Elphaba walked beside Fiyero, their pace leisurely despite the noise and movement around them. Lunch had been good. Relaxing, even. But now that they were heading back, she could already feel the weight of her workload settling onto her shoulders.

It had been eight days since those texts. Since then, their messages had been playful, sometimes teasing, sometimes bordering on something else. It had started with her underwear campaign; an offhand joke from Elphaba that had spiralled into a week of flirting. A comment here, a well-placed compliment there. Nothing too serious.

At least, that’s what Galinda told herself.

Today, though, she had to push all of that aside.

Elphaba was flying into LA this afternoon for a string of joint appearances, all carefully planned to make their relationship look real. And while that should have been at the forefront of Galinda’s mind, right now, she had something else to focus on, her first official day on her new film.

But as she sat in the car on the way to the table read, her phone buzzed, and she couldn’t help but glance down at the screen. It was a message from Elphaba. Galinda’s heart skipped, and a heavy warmth settled in her chest, despite her best efforts to ignore it.

Elphaba: You should see the bruise. Want a picture? It’s dangerously close to being inappropriate.

Galinda: That’s how you’re starting this morning?

Elphaba: I figured I’d ease you into it.

Start with minor trauma, segue into thirst traps. You know, classic courtship.

Galinda: You’re feeling flirty for someone who’s only had airport coffee.

Elphaba: I’m horny.

Galinda blinked.

Her thumb hovered, unmoving, as the word just… stared back at her from the screen. She fumbled, actually fumbled, the phone, catching it just before it could hit the floor of the car.

Her pulse spiked. Her skin went warm.

Galinda: Elphie.

Elphaba: What? You asked.

You’ve been sending me selfies all week looking like you belong spread out on expensive sheets, and I’ve been stuck in New York with nothing but my imagination.

Galinda: You’re unbelievable.

Elphaba: And yet you’re still texting me. Still blushing, probably.

Are you on set yet or do I have time to push this further?

Galinda: I’m almost there. You really don’t have an off switch do you?

Elphaba: I’ve heard no complaints.

I’m wearing the black shirt you said makes me “look like trouble.”

Hoping it gets me detained at security.

Galinda: You’re the worst.

Elphaba: And still your problem.

Boarding now. Try not to think about my thighs in 13C.

Galinda stared at the message, her brain short-circuiting for a full three seconds before she actually registered what it said. Her mouth dropped open slightly, eyes wide, and her phone felt hot in her hands.

She blinked, checked the time, and blinked again like it might help reset her entire nervous system. It was 9:03 a.m. She hadn’t even had a real breakfast yet.

And Elphaba was out here talking about seat numbers like they were foreplay.

“Try not to think about my thighs in 13C.”

Who says that? Who casually says that at 9 a.m. like it’s just morning talk?

Galinda adjusted her sunglasses even though she was inside now. They were oversized and impractical and completely unnecessary, but she needed something to hide behind. Her skin felt too hot, too obvious. Like people could see it on her, see that she’d spent her car ride here replaying one line over and over again.

God.

The worst part? Elphaba knew exactly what she was doing. She always did. She’d perfected that balance between disinterested and devastating, the kind of flirting that didn’t ask permission, just happened to you. And Galinda, brilliant, in-control Galinda, had spent the last two weeks encouraging it.

Actively.

Shamelessly.

One text at a time.

She reached the door to the conference room and paused, breathing in. Centered. Composed. Not at all like someone whose fake-girlfriend-slash-actual-crush had just texted her the word “horny” like it was a casual weather update.

This was fine. She was fine. It was just a table read. Words on pages. Professional. Simple. 

She was so, so screwed.

The table read was one of her favorite parts of a new project. It was the first time the cast came together, the first time the story started to feel real. Normally, she would have walked into the room with her usual confidence, ready to own the space, knowing that most eyes would be on her. But as she stepped inside, her gaze landed on someone she never expected to see.

Galinda stopped dead in her tracks. She hadn’t seen Milla in years, since college, in fact, and here she was, standing on the same set, preparing for the same table read. It took her a moment to process what she was seeing. Milla wasn’t just a familiar face; she was in the movie. Galinda had no idea. It hadn’t been mentioned anywhere. Her mind raced with the realisation.

She hadn’t expected to see Milla here. She thought she’d be walking into a room full of seasoned actors, people she had worked with before. But this? This was a pleasant shock. The two of them hadn’t been in touch much after graduation, and yet here they were, about to share this experience.

“Milla?”

The woman in question turned, her dark eyes widening in surprise before breaking into a radiant smile. “Galinda!”

Galinda let out an excited squeal before launching forward, wrapping Milla in a tight hug. “Oh my god, it’s been years!”

“I know!” Milla pulled back, still beaming. “I couldn’t believe it when I saw your name on the cast list. I nearly lost my mind.”

“You lost your mind?” Galinda laughed. “I’m the one who just got hit with a nostalgia wave. Look at you! You look amazing.”

Milla grinned, a little bashful. “Oh, stop. You’re still the most gorgeous person in any room.”

Galinda flipped her hair, teasing. “Flattery will get you everywhere.”

They hadn’t seen each other since college, but the familiar warmth was still there. Back then, they had been close; late-night study sessions, gossiping over cheap wine, dreaming about making it big.

“You have no idea how excited I was when I found out we’d be working together,” Milla admitted. “I mean, this is my first real role, and to have someone I actually know on set? It makes it way less terrifying.”

Galinda’s chest warmed. “Milla, that’s incredible. You deserve this.”

Milla gave a small, self-deprecating shrug. “It took a while to get here. A lot of auditions, a lot of ‘we’ll keep you in mind’ emails.”

Galinda knew that struggle well. But hearing it from someone as talented as Milla made her heart ache.

“Well,” she declared, looping an arm through Milla’s, “we must celebrate. How about a cast night out? Dinner, drinks, shameless karaoke?”

Milla’s eyes lit up. “That sounds great”

“Perfect,” Galinda said brightly. “We have to celebrate your first big role properly. And besides, this cast will be dying for a night of debauchery.” 

Galinda raised an eyebrow. “Someone like me? Come on, don’t sell yourself short. You’ve got that natural spark. I’m just… the girl who knows how to fake it ‘til I make it.”

Milla chuckled, but there was a note of uncertainty in her voice. “I don’t know. I mean, I never thought I’d actually get cast in something. This is my first time on set, and it’s… kind of overwhelming.”

“I get it,” Galinda said with a grin. “I remember my first time on set. It’s like a whole different world. But you’ll do great. I’ve seen you on stage before…you’ve always had that energy. So, how are you feeling about this whole thing?”

Milla shifted her weight slightly, a small, nervous laugh escaping her lips. “Honestly? I’m nervous as hell. It’s been a huge leap for me, and there are moments when I think, ‘What am I doing here?’ But I’m here now. I have to give it my all, right?”

Galinda’s smile softened, a knowing look crossing her face. “I totally get that. I’ve been there. But look, you’re going to do amazing. And you know what? I’m really happy we’re both here. This is a cool surprise.”

Milla’s face brightened. “Yeah, it is. It feels kind of… full circle, doesn’t it? Like college was a lifetime ago, but here we are, still chasing dreams.”

Galinda laughed, her eyes twinkling with nostalgia. “Yeah. Time flies. But hey, look at you now.”

Milla smiled softly, her gaze flickering down to her script for a moment before she met Galinda’s eyes again. “Well, I’m not quite as bold as you, but I’m giving it my best shot.” She paused for a moment, a more serious note in her voice. “I saw your interview, by the way. I just wanted to say that I’m really proud of you, Galinda. It takes a lot to put yourself out there like that.”

Galinda’s face softened, the corners of her mouth curving into a small, thankful smile. “Thanks, Milla. That means a lot. I wasn’t sure how the world would take it, but it felt like it was time, you know?”

“Definitely,” Milla agreed. “I’ve been following your career too. It’s impressive what you’ve accomplished. It’s… good to see you out here, being yourself.”

A slight warmth spread across Galinda’s chest at Milla’s kind words. “Well, it hasn’t been easy, but I’m doing what I love. And that’s enough for now.” She hesitated for a second, looking around at the rest of the people who were already beginning to take their seats. “It’s funny, isn’t it? We’ve both been on such different paths. I never thought we’d cross paths like this again.”

“I didn’t either,” Milla replied, her voice quieter now, almost as if she were letting herself think about it for the first time. “But I’m glad we have. It feels good to see a familiar face in a place like this.”

The moment felt comfortable, familiar, and yet new at the same time, like catching up with someone who had been missing from your life for far too long.

“So,” Galinda said, shifting the conversation slightly, “are you still living in the city? Or have you moved somewhere else for work?”

“Still in the city, yeah,” Milla said, a slight shrug of her shoulders. “I’ve been busy with auditions and training. I haven’t had much luck, but I guess my luck’s changed.”

Galinda squeezed Milla’s arm reassuringly. “It definitely has. And hopefully, this is just the start. Maybe we’ll get to work together even more after this.”

Milla smiled, the nerves in her posture easing just a little. “I’d like that.”

Before they could say anything more, the sound of heels clicking against the polished floor cut through the hum of conversation. A commanding voice followed, sharp yet theatrical in its delivery.

“Alright, everyone, take your seats!” Morrible, the film’s director, stood at the front of the room, her presence alone enough to command attention. She clasped her hands together, surveying the room like a queen addressing her court. “Let’s settle in. We have a lot of ground to cover today, and I’d prefer to get through this without any unnecessary dramatics, at least, not off the page.”

Galinda turned back to Milla, her expression warm. “Ready?”

Milla exhaled, straightening her shoulders. “As I’ll ever be.”

With a quick, reassuring squeeze of Milla’s hand, Galinda pulled her into a brief hug before they both moved to their seats. The hum of conversation faded as scripts were opened, and the rustling of pages filled the air.

As the first lines of dialogue were read aloud, Galinda let herself settle into the moment, her excitement growing. This was it, the start of something new.

Elphaba reached into the shower, turning on the water. A soft hiss sounded against the tiles, fogging the glass as steam curled up in thick tendrils. She turned back to Galinda, who now stood in nothing but her lace bra and underwear.

“I missed this,” she said, voice low.

Galinda’s breath hitched, her body already leaning into the space between them. “You don’t have to say that just because I let you ogle me in lingerie.”

Elphaba laughed, soft and wicked. “Oh, I was going to ogle you regardless. That’s just bonus material.”

Galinda’s smile faltered, but in a good way, like it got tangled up somewhere between anticipation and the ache that had been building between them for weeks. Her hands went to Elphaba’s shirt, sliding it off her shoulders slowly, revealing the muscle she remembered. Elphaba looked different somehow. Or maybe it was just how she was looking at her differently now.

They stepped out of what remained between them, slow and unhurried, until nothing but skin remained.

Galinda moved forward until her bare skin pressed against Elphaba’s. The contact was electric.

“You’ve been driving me insane,” Galinda murmured.

“I know,” Elphaba said, almost smug. “I could feel it in your texts. You send emojis like someone about to combust.”

Galinda tilted her head. “I never sent you emojis.”

“You didn’t have to,” Elphaba murmured, brushing her mouth just barely over Galinda’s. “I could hear them.”

Galinda let out a shaky laugh. “You’re impossible.”

“Incorrigible,” Elphaba corrected, before finally closing the last inch between them.

The kiss wasn’t tentative. It wasn’t slow. It was a claim, a release, and a promise all in one. Galinda’s hands were in her hair before Elphaba could finish that first low groan, fingers tightening like she’d been waiting for this moment and wasn’t planning on letting it pass gently.

They stumbled into the shower together, laughter and heat rising with the steam. The water soaked them instantly, plastering Elphaba’s dark hair to her face, streaming down Galinda’s back as she pressed her against the cool tile wall.

Elphaba kissed her again, slower this time, at first. But Galinda wasn’t patient.

She surged forward, fingers curling tight in Elphaba’s wet hair, pulling her in like she wanted to devour the space between them. Her mouth opened with a soft, aching sound, and Elphaba answered it with a low growl, something primal and involuntary, as her hands slid down Galinda’s back, gripping tight like she needed to feel every inch of her to believe this was real.

Galinda bit at her lower lip, not hard enough to draw blood, but enough to make Elphaba’s breath catch.

“You like that?” Galinda whispered, emboldened, voice ragged with need.

Elphaba’s response was instant, one hand at Galinda’s waist yanked her forward, crashing their hips together. “You have no idea,” she said against her mouth, then kissed her again, hot and claiming.

Water thundered around them. Their bodies moved in time with it, pulsing and relentless.

Elphaba’s hands roamed with more purpose now, rougher, tugging Galinda closer, then pinning her against the slick tile with her hips. Her fingers found the soft skin of Galinda’s thigh, lifted it, anchored it around her. Galinda gasped as her balance tipped forward, into Elphaba.

She could feel Elphaba smile against her throat before she sank her teeth in, just a little. Not enough to hurt, just enough to make Galinda tremble. A breath, a moan, a desperate clutch of fingers on wet skin.

“You always put on this golden girl act,” Elphaba said, voice dark in her ear. “But look at you. You can’t get enough.”

Galinda didn’t even argue. Couldn’t. Her head tilted back, giving more of herself away with every ragged breath. “Then stop talking,” she whispered. “And give me what I want.”

She kissed her like a punishment. Bit her lower lip until Galinda gasped, then soothed it with her tongue. One hand held Galinda’s jaw, tilting it just how she wanted, the other pressing against her hip, steady and possessive.

And Galinda let her. Let herself be pulled under, swept up, undone. She clung to her, fingers sliding over slick shoulders, breath coming in shallow, frantic bursts. She couldn’t get close enough. Her hips rolling instinctively, desperately, against the strong line of Elphaba’s thigh pressed between hers.

“God,” Galinda gasped, her voice cracking.

She angled her leg just right, holding Galinda there with a firm grip on her waist, letting her move, letting her chase what she needed. Her lips ghosted along Galinda’s jaw, her temple, her throat, biting, tasting, owning every inch of skin she could reach.

“Is this what you’ve been thinking about?” Elphaba growled against her ear, fingers digging in just enough to leave marks. “All those nights texting me like you were innocent?”

Galinda whimpered, a sound caught somewhere between frustration and pleasure.

“I bet you were like this in bed,” Elphaba murmured, dragging her mouth across the curve of Galinda’s neck, sucking hard enough to make her cry out. “Phone in one hand, the other between your legs, imagining my voice in your ear.”

“Elphie” Her name came out broken, more plea than protest.

Elphaba smiled, wicked and slow. Then she shifted. Her thigh slipped away and Galinda made a small, wounded noise, hips bucking forward into nothing.

But then Elphaba’s hand replaced it; smooth and sure, sliding through wet folds. Her fingers were confident, unrelenting, and Galinda’s body bowed into her, mouth falling open on a gasp she couldn’t quite catch.

“Better?” Elphaba asked, low and dark and smug, her fingers teasing, circling but not giving.

Galinda didn’t answer, couldn’t. Her head fell back against the tile with a soft thunk, one leg curling tighter around Elphaba’s hip to anchor herself against the flood of sensation. Her nails scratched at Elphaba’s back, too far gone to care if she left marks.

“Tell me what you need,” Elphaba said, lips brushing her cheek, her brow, her mouth.

“You,” Galinda choked out. “You…I need…just please..”

That was all it took.

Elphaba kissed her hard, swallowed her moan, and gave her exactly what she was begging for.

Her fingers moved with perfect precision, like she’d mapped out Galinda’s body in her dreams and memorised every response. She watched her the whole time, eyes dark with heat and wonder, like Galinda was something she wanted to ruin and worship in equal measure.

And Galinda shattered. Right there, against the wall, with the water pouring down around them and Elphaba’s name ripped from her throat like a confession.

Elphaba caught her and held her through the storm.

Galinda collapsed into her, spent and shaking, breathing in sync with the thunder of her heartbeat in her ears. She hadn’t even caught her breath, and already she was chasing more.

Still trembling, she leaned into Elphaba like she was starving for her. Her hands slid down slick, muscled arms and back up again, tracing the ridges of her shoulder blades, her spine. Her mouth found Elphaba’s collarbone, pressing open-mouthed kisses there; desperate, hot, almost frantic.

Elphaba groaned low in her throat, head tipping back as Galinda bit gently at her skin, then soothed the mark with her tongue.

“You don’t know how to stop, do you?” Elphaba said, voice frayed around the edges now, rough with restraint.

Galinda smiled against her skin. “Not when you touch me like that,” she whispered. “You can’t light me on fire and expect me to stay quiet.”

Elphaba laughed, breathless, but it caught halfway through because Galinda’s hands were moving lower again. Exploring. Insistent.

She didn’t ask. She just pushed Elphaba back until her shoulders hit the opposite wall of the shower. The tile was hot from the steam now, but Elphaba didn’t flinch. Just watched her, breath heaving, eyes burning.

Galinda stepped between her legs, kissed her hard, then pulled back with a biting scrape of her teeth against Elphaba’s lower lip. “You said you missed this,” she murmured. “So don’t hold back.”

Elphaba didn’t need to be told twice.

In a blur of motion, she had Galinda spun back into her arms, lifted just enough to pin her against the wall again. Galinda gasped, legs locking around her waist instinctively.

“You want everything?” Elphaba asked, voice ragged now, low and vibrating against Galinda’s lips. “Because I’m not going to be sweet this time.”

Galinda grinned, breathless. “Good.”

And that was it. The dam broke.

Elphaba kissed her like she’d gone too long without her. Rough. Deep. Teeth clashing, lips bruising. Her hands roamed with no hesitation, learning every curve like she’d never stop. She bit down at the base of Galinda’s throat, where her pulse thudded wild beneath her skin, and Galinda let out a noise that might’ve been her name or a curse.

The shower kept pounding around them, heat and water and steam rising in waves. Time stopped mattering. Sense, too. There was only this.

The burn. The hunger. The sheer, breath-stealing ache of it. And in the middle of it all, Galinda, caught in Elphaba’s arms like something precious and dangerous all at once. Like she wanted to be devoured.

Elphaba’s grip tightened on Galinda’s thighs, hoisting her higher, pressing their bodies flush as water cascaded over their skin. Her mouth was everywhere; along Galinda’s jaw, at the corner of her lips, across the pulse hammering beneath her ear.

Galinda’s breath came in ragged bursts, her fingers knotted in Elphaba’s hair, pulling her in harder, closer. “Elphie,” she gasped, her voice strained with need, “don’t make me beg.”

Elphaba pulled back just enough to look at her, really look at her. Her pupils blown wide, chest rising and falling like she was fighting a losing battle with control.

“Say it,” she whispered, one hand sliding down Galinda’s soaked body, slow and firm. “Say what you want.”

Galinda’s whole body trembled in her arms, flushed and desperate, but her eyes held steady. “You,” she breathed. “I want…God, I want your hands on me. In me.”

The last words hit like a spark to dry kindling.

Elphaba surged forward, catching her mouth in a kiss that was more growl than anything else, her hand finally slipping lower. No more teasing. No more space between them. She found Galinda with purpose, her fingers sliding past folds and pushing inside, setting a steady pace.

Galinda cried out, sharp, breathless, breaking the kiss as her head thudded gently back against the tile. Her hips bucked forward, chasing the rhythm, needing more.

“There you are,” Elphaba murmured, her voice dark. “So good like this… already falling apart.”

Galinda clutched at her shoulders, eyes fluttering closed, every muscle wound tight. “Don’t stop,” she whispered. “Please…don’t stop.”

Elphaba didn’t.

Her hand moved with confidence, curling deep, coaxing sounds from Galinda she hadn’t let anyone hear before. Her name poured from Galinda’s lips like it belonged there.

She kissed her through it, hard and wild, biting Galinda’s bottom lip as her fingers curled just right, and Galinda arched into her with a sob of pleasure.

The heat between them was endless. A collision of hunger, something built over weeks of tension, finally shattering all at once.

Elphaba held her there, letting her come undone again in her arms.

“You don’t have to apologise,” Galinda said quietly, feeling her cheeks burn. “I wanted it.

Elphaba’s brow furrowed, her eyes searching Galinda’s face, looking for any flicker of uncertainty.

“I mean it,” Galinda rushed on, her voice a little shaky but sure. “It was crazy, and wild, and…” She laughed, breathless. “Honestly, it was insane.”

She ducked her head, smiling against her own shoulder. “But you always find ways to make everything feel… exciting. Like I’m alive.”

Elphaba’s mouth twitched, not quite a smile, but something close.

“And no,” Galinda added, softer, “it wasn’t too much.”

Elphaba let out a breath like she’d been holding it. She lifted a hand, brushing her fingers lightly over the inside of Galinda’s wrist, tentative but grounding.

“You’d tell me if it was?” she asked, voice low.

Galinda nodded. “Yeah. I would.”

Galinda took a shaky breath, her fingers twisting in the hem of her shirt.

“But,” she added, a flush creeping up her neck, “I guess part of me feels… bad? For liking it so much.”

Elphaba’s brow furrowed slightly, a line creasing between her eyes.

Galinda kept talking, rushing a little, like she had to get it out before she lost her nerve.

“I mean, it was crazy. I should have been worrying about what I was doing. And instead it just…” She broke off, looking down at her bare toes curling into the kitchen floor. “It just made me want you more.”

For a beat, the only sound was the low whir of the coffee machine still humming in the background.

Elphaba reached out slowly, sliding two fingers under Galinda’s chin and tipping her face up so their eyes met.

“There’s nothing wrong with wanting something,” Elphaba said, voice low, rough at the edges. “Not when you’re choosing it.”

Galinda’s heart squeezed painfully in her chest.

“You’re gonna ruin me,” she said, half-teasing, half-true.

Elphaba chuckled, stepping a little closer. “Somebody’s got to.”

Galinda grinned despite herself, the last of the tightness in her chest easing.

She nudged Elphaba lightly with her hip, playful again.

“Well, just warn me next time before you make me do illegal things in a moving vehicle.”

Elphaba gave her a slow, wolfish smile. “No promises.”

Galinda laughed, a real, bubbling laugh, and shoved her lightly in the shoulder.

Eventually the crowd settled down and they posed for a few more photos, but Elphaba was quieter now, still just as close, just as teasing, but her touches lingered a little longer. 

As one of the final songs started, Galinda tightened her hold on Elphaba’s hand.

“We should sneak out before it ends,” Galinda said, lowly. “Before it gets crazy.”

Elphaba nodded quickly. “Yeah. Good call.”

Moving carefully so as not to attract too much attention, they slipped out of their row, security instantly falling into step with them. The crowd was still focused on the stage, the bright lights and the beat pounding through the arena, only a few people noticed them weaving their way toward a side exit, though there were still some squeals and shouted declarations of love trailing after them.

Galinda laughed as they hurried along a back walkway, her heels clicking against the concrete. “I feel like we just pulled off a heist.”

Elphaba squeezed her hand, smirking. “We kind of did. Stole the show.”

A black SUV waited for them near the back gate, engine humming softly. Their driver opened the door, but Elphaba hesitated, tugging Galinda back a step before she could climb in.

“Wait,” Elphaba said, her voice low and charged.

Galinda turned, and then Elphaba was pressing her back against the cool side of the SUV, hands braced on either side of her head, kissing her hard and fast like she’d been holding back all night.

Galinda gasped against her mouth, clutching at Elphaba’s jacket, feeling the adrenaline still racing through both of them.

When Elphaba finally pulled back, they were both breathless.

Galinda blinked up at her, heart hammering, looking at Elphaba like she was everything.

“What…what was that for?” she managed, her voice barely more than a gasp.

Elphaba smirked, eyes dark as she leaned back in, her mouth brushing the shell of Galinda’s ear.

“Call it a down payment,” she murmured, voice rough with meaning. “Next time, I’m not stopping at kissing you against the car.”

Galinda made a small, helpless noise in the back of her throat, her whole body lighting up like a struck match.

Elphaba pulled back just enough to catch her expression, clearly pleased with herself, before opening the door with a flourish.

“Get in, Gorgeous,” she said, her tone pure sin. “Before I forget where we are.”

Galinda slipped into the SUV, the door shutting behind her with a soft click. Her pulse still hadn’t settled.

Elphaba climbed in beside her. Neither of them said a word at first.

Then Galinda reached into Elphaba’s jacket pocket, pulled out the pink slip of paper, rolled down the window, and let it go.

They both watched as it caught the wind and vanished into the dark.

Elphaba’s voice was low. “Didn’t even read it?”

Galinda kept her eyes on the window. “Didn’t need to.”

A beat passed. Then, coolly, “Anyone who’d hand me their number in front of my girlfriend isn’t worth my time.”

Elphaba glanced at her, something unreadable in her eyes. “You deserve better than that.”

Galinda finally looked at her.

The city lights flickered over her face, her expression impossible to read.

Elphaba held her gaze for a moment longer… then looked away.

Neither of them said anything else.

But the silence between them said plenty.

Two weeks had passed since Elphaba left Los Angeles, and life had resumed its usual tempo. Her mornings started early and involved a high amount of caffeine. She spent hours scanning emails and reviewing financial reports. Her days were filled with conference calls, investor meetings, and presentations she could deliver in her sleep. She was back where she belonged, at the top of her game, in control.

Mostly.

What she hadn’t expected was just how much of her time would be spent thinking about Galinda.

They texted constantly. It had started with casual banter and check-ins, but had evolved into long threads of flirtation, often testing limits. Dropping remarks that made Galinda blush or flirt back twice as hard.

There had been late-night calls, some tame, some… not. She didn’t examine why she let it go as far as it had. She didn’t need to. It was all in good fun. Controlled, like everything else in her life.

At least, that’s what she told herself.

Public interest hadn’t died down in the slightest. If anything, it had grown; photos from the concert had gone viral, clips of Galinda clinging to Elphaba’s arm or laughing into her shoulder circulating online. No one questioned it. The illusion was seamless.

Which made the plan a success. Simple. Effective.

She was focused. At least, she was trying to be. Yet her thoughts kept drifting, unwelcome memories surfacing of the whirlwind time she’d spent with Galinda. The last goodbye had been lingering in the back of her mind. There was something about it all she couldn't quite put her finger on. 

Her phone buzzed, interrupting her thoughts.

Galinda: Just got home from the most insufferably long lunch event for the Influential Woman of the Year Awards. You know, they really should’ve just given me every award.

A smirk tugged at Elphaba’s lips.

Elphaba:  I’m sure the others appreciated the participation trophies.

Galinda:  Oh, you’re funny today.

Galinda: Anyway, I may or may not have been asked a ridiculous amount of questions about my very charming, very intelligent “girlfriend” who just happens to be a business genius.

Elphaba rolled her eyes, though the warmth in her chest was undeniable.

Elphaba:  Are you flirting with me?

Galinda: Who, me? Never. 

Another buzz.

Galinda: But I might be a little tipsy. Just a bit. It was a long lunch.

Elphaba arched a brow.

Elphaba:  How did you survive?

Her phone buzzed again, this time with a photo attachment. Galinda in a champagne-coloured dress, hair swept into effortless waves. She was radiant. Of course, she was.

Galinda:  Sheer determination. And three glasses of rosé.

Elphaba snorted softly. The text that followed made her raise a brow.

Galinda:  Miss me yet?

Elphaba shook her head, half-smiling as she typed back.

Elphaba: Desperately. This spreadsheet isn’t the same without you mocking it.

The reply came quickly.

Galinda: Flirting already? Elphie, be still my heart.

Elphaba:  Are you drunk?

Before Galinda could respond, Elphaba’s laptop lit up with an incoming FaceTime call. She blinked. Galinda Upland. The smirk returned. Of course.

She hesitated for half a second, then clicked Accept.

The screen shifted, and there she was; blonde curls falling over her shoulders, cheeks flushed pink, and an undeniable gleam of mischief in her eyes. She was sprawled across her couch, the sunlight from a California afternoon spilling through windows behind her.

“Elphie!” Galinda chirped, too bright and too giddy for someone who claimed to be “just a bit” tipsy.

“Galinda,” Elphaba greeted, her voice dry. “Do I need to get a restraining order?”

“Oh, please,” Galinda waved her off, giggling. “I’m a delight.”

Elphaba shook her head in amusement.

Then, with a conspiratorial gleam, Galinda added, “Crope, told me something interesting earlier. Have you seen what people are calling you online?”

“I’m afraid to ask.”

Galinda grinned. “They’re calling you the CEO of Seduction.”

Elphaba blinked. Then she laughed, a low, rich sound. “Well,” she drawled, “you would know.”

“That’s what I said!” Galinda shot back.

Elphaba arched a brow, but the smug amusement in her gaze betrayed her. “You’re ridiculous. It sounds like you made quite the impression at lunch.”

“I might have.” Galinda’s voice was teasing. She shifted, the camera wobbling slightly as she set her phone down. “But not as much as you did. People kept asking about my girlfriend. Wondering where you were.”

“And what did you say?”

“That you were far too busy running the world to be bothered with social events. Which, frankly, just made you more irresistible.”

Elphaba chuckled. “Naturally. Shouldn’t you be napping off your mid-afternoon intoxication?”

“Well, I’m home now. No more responsibilities until my cast night out later.” Galinda sighed, leaning back. “But these earrings have got to go.”

She propped her phone up on the couch beside her, the view widening to show her standing. Elphaba’s eyes lingered. Galinda’s champagne-coloured dress hugged her curves, cinched at the waist and daringly low-cut. It was elegant, sophisticated. and undeniably distracting.

“Elphie,” Galinda teased, catching the way her gaze lingered. “Are you staring?” 

“I’m… appreciating.”

“Oh, are you now?” She grinned as she unclasped one earring and then the other, setting them aside. She paused, biting her lip before tilting her head slightly.

“You know,” she said coyly, “I’ve been thinking a lot about the view from your apartment.”

Elphaba stilled for a fraction of a second before her lips curled into a slow, knowing smirk. “Oh? Is that so?”

Galinda hummed, running a finger along the strap of her dress absentmindedly. “Mhm.” She flicked her gaze up through her lashes. “I don’t know why… just, every time I think of New York, it comes to mind.”

Elphaba let out a low chuckle. “Funny. Because I distinctly remember telling you that would happen.”

Galinda shivered at the memory, pressing her lips together in a poor attempt at feigned innocence. “I don’t recall…”

“You don’t?” Elphaba leaned back in her chair, exuding lazy confidence. “I suppose I could remind you.”

Galinda exhaled a quiet laugh, shaking her head. “You really do like having the last word, don’t you?”

“I do.”

Galinda smirked, then, as if struck by a sudden thought, her expression turned mischievous. “Speaking of last words…”

Elphaba raised a brow. “Oh no.”

“No, no, it’s just…” Galinda bit her lip, then let out a dramatic sigh. “I was just wondering… have you ever… you know, fucked someone on that desk of yours?”

Elphaba blinked, then let out a slow grin. “Not yet.”

Galinda sucked in a sharp breath. “Oh.”

Elphaba’s voice lowered, a quiet challenge. “But maybe you should visit me at work next time you’re in the city.”

“Oh,” Galinda breathed. “You’re terrible.”

“I’m the terrible one?”

Galinda smirked as her fingers traced along the edge of her collarbone. “You look very… commanding behind that desk.”

“And you,” Elphaba countered, gaze trailing over the silky fabric of Galinda’s dress, “aren’t being fair. Wearing that when I’m not there to take it off.”

Galinda froze, her eyes wide and cheeks flushed. Then, that familiar mischievous spark lit up her face. “Well. Maybe next time.”

Elphaba’s jaw tightened. She was about to respond when a sharp knock sounded at her office door.

“Shit,” she muttered. “Hold on, I’m muting you.”

“Don’t keep me waiting,” Galinda sang, her grin lingering on the screen as Elphaba clicked the mute button.

“Come in,” Elphaba called, schooling her expression.

The door creaked open and in stepped Boq, clutching a binder with an anxious expression. He immediately launched into his usual stream of numbers and projections. “So I’ve been reviewing the financials for that investment portfolio, and something’s off. The numbers don’t match my calculations, and I’m not sure if it’s an input error or a…”

Elphaba tried. She really did. But out of the corner of her eye, Galinda’s face was still visible on the muted video call. And now she was smirking.

And taking off her dress.

Elphaba’s throat went dry.

Boq continued rambling, oblivious. “…so I thought I’d cross-reference it with the secondary report, but then I saw…”

Galinda let the dress slip down her body, the satin pooling at her feet. She stood in nothing but a delicate set of lacy ivory lingerie, intricate patterns that left little to the imagination. She gave a slow, deliberate stretch, her grin widening as she noticed Elphaba’s sharp inhale.

Oh, she knew exactly what she was doing.

Elphaba forced her gaze back to Boq, nodding stiffly. “Mmhmm.”

“Right?” Boq said, visibly relieved that she seemed to agree. “I mean, I knew you’d understand …”

“Mm,” Elphaba managed, nodding vaguely.

Boq frowned. “You’re looking a little…” He gestured. “Distracted.”

“I’m fine.” She forced a tight smile. “Continue.”

But Galinda wasn’t finished. She unclasped her bra with agonising slowness, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction as it fell away. Then, her hands dipped lower.

Elphaba’s pulse thundered.

“I, uh…” She cut Boq off abruptly, standing. “Actually, I’m not feeling well. Maybe we can catch up on this later.”

Boq blinked. “Oh. Sure. Do you need…”

“Just… later.” She ushered him out quickly, locking the door behind him.

Her heart pounded as she returned to her desk. Unmuting the call, she found Galinda grinning, unabashedly naked, except for some lace between her thighs, her fingers grazing her legs. She was practically glowing with satisfaction.

“Galinda,” she growled, unmuting the call. “What the hell are you doing?”

“Oh, me?” Galinda giggled, shameless and radiant. “I was a feeling a bit hot.”

Elphaba’s mouth went dry. “You’re insufferable.”

“And yet…” Galinda leaned closer to the camera, her voice dropping. “You can’t stop looking.”

Elphaba swallowed. She was sweating.

“Tell me what you want, Elphie.”

And with that, the last shred of Elphaba’s restraint unraveled. Before she could respond, Galinda shifted, propping her phone at a better angle, and sat back down on the couch. The light glowing across the curves of her body and the arch of her back, it was intoxicating.

Galinda grinned, the picture of satisfaction. “You’re very special.”

Elphaba exhaled sharply, her fingers curling against the desk. She could end this now; close the laptop, pretend she hadn’t just spent the last several minutes watching Galinda tease her mercilessly. But the way Galinda’s hand hovered just above the lace between her thighs? The gleam in her eyes? Elphaba didn’t want to stop.

“Since you’re so eager to finish,” Elphaba drawled, her voice dropping an octave, “let’s see how well you follow instructions.”

Galinda’s breath hitched. “Oh?”

“Hands behind your back,” Elphaba commanded, her eyes gleaming. “I want to admire you first.”

There was a moment’s hesitation, but then Galinda obeyed. She sat up straighter, arching her back, her hands slipping behind her to grip her wrists. The position only accentuated the curves of her body; the soft swell of her breasts, the dip of her waist. Elphaba’s tongue darted out to wet her lips.

“Good girl,” she murmured, and the flush that bloomed across Galinda’s cheeks was delicious.

“Now,” Elphaba continued, her gaze flicking lower, “spread your legs for me.”

Galinda shivered, the praise sending a fresh wave of desire through her. Slowly, she parted her thighs, the sheer lace of her underwear leaving very little to Elphaba’s imagination. She felt exposed, vulnerable, and she loved it.

“Touch yourself,” Elphaba instructed, her voice steady despite the warmth pooling low in her stomach. “But not too much. I want you to savour it.”

Galinda’s hand slid down her stomach, her fingers teasing along the edge of the lace. She moved languidly, deliberately, knowing exactly how to keep Elphaba’s attention locked on her.

“Slower,” Elphaba growled. “Let me see how good you are at listening.”

Galinda whimpered softly, but obeyed. Her fingers brushed over the damp fabric, a soft gasp escaping her lips as she applied the faintest pressure. Elphaba watched her every movement, her jaw tight as she fought the urge to slip her own hand between her thighs.

“Take those off.” Elphaba’s voice was firmer now, her patience wearing thin. “I want nothing in the way.”

Galinda bit her lip, dragging the lace down her legs with agonising slowness. When she discarded them to the side, Elphaba’s chest tightened, the sight of her bare and wanting, making it impossible to think straight.

“Now,” Elphaba murmured, her voice a velvet command. “Show me how much you need me.”

“She’ll text,” Milla said softly. “You’ll see.” 

The woman leaned up slightly, lips brushing against her neck, breath hot. Her body arched forward, trying to close the gap between them. Then, when Elphaba’s grip loosened just enough, the woman slipped one hand free and let it slide straight down, fingers slipping past Elphaba’s waistband.

She took the mug but didn’t drink. “I went to the bar tonight.”

He raised an eyebrow. “The usual?”

She gave a weak huff of laughter. “Yeah. That one.”

“And?”

“I tried to hook up with a girl.”

“Tried?”

She nodded. “Couldn’t go through with it.”

He blinked. “Wait…that’s never happened before.”

“Exactly.”

Fiyero smirked. “You’re being this dramatic because you couldn’t get it up?”

She shot him an unimpressed look. “Shut up.”

He held up his hands. “Sorry. Please, continue.”

“All I could think about was Galinda,” she said, voice quieter now. “It felt like I was cheating. Even though I wasn’t.”

Fiyero’s smile faded. “Ah.”

She leaned forward, elbows on knees. “I overheard her friend, earlier. Asking her if she was going to tell me she’s in love with me.”

Fiyero’s brows lifted. “Shit. What did you do?”

“I panicked. Obviously.” Her voice was sharp. Defensive. “I don’t do relationships, you know that. So I just… started spiralling. I ended up at the bar and then completely lost it. On the walk here, I figured I’ll have to find a way to let her down.”

“Unbelievable,” he muttered, shaking his head.

Her eyes narrowed. “What?”

He sat back, arms crossed, like he’d been waiting for this moment. “You’re so adamant that you don’t want a relationship. But when are you going to realise you’re already in one?”

Elphaba stilled. “What are you talking about?”

Fiyero leaned forward, ticking points off on his fingers.

“You haven’t slept with anyone else since you met her.”

“You’re always messaging her.”

“She’s the only person who can make you smile like that…like, actually smile, not that smug grimace you usually do.”

“You’re protective of her.”

“And don’t get me started on the way you look at her.”

Elphaba stared at him, stunned.

“I…” she breathed. “Shit. You’re right.”

A slow, almost proud grin spread across his face. “Of course I am.”

“I’m dating her.”

“Yup. I’ve been waiting for you to realise.”

“I didn’t even…fuck.” She stood suddenly, pacing. “I can’t. I can’t do this again. You know what happened.”

“She’s not her, Elphaba,” he said firmly. “And she’s not hiding. She’s not ashamed. She’s out. She has her own money, her own name. She’s not going to destroy you.”

There was a long silence, then Fiyero set down his mug and said, gently, “Wait. Just… look at this.”

He picked up his phone and began swiping, eyes scanning the screen.

Elphaba watched him warily. “What are you doing?”

“Hang on,” he murmured, tapping a few times. “Here.”

He turned the screen toward her.

It was a photo. A candid, clearly taken without them noticing. She recognised it instantly. She and Galinda were sitting side by side in a booth, in a coffee shop in LA. Their half-finished coffees on the table. Elphaba had her arm slung lazily over Galinda’s shoulder, and they were mid-laugh, looking directly at each other like nothing else existed.

Fiyero pointed to the image. “You see this?”

She swallowed. “Yeah.”

“You can’t fake that.” His voice was quiet. “You can’t fake the way you two are looking at each other. You especially.”

She frowned slightly. “What do you mean?”

He smiled, but it was bittersweet. “I didn’t even know you could look like that. You’re…beaming, Elphaba. You look happy.”

She didn’t respond right away, just stared at the photo like it was proof of something she hadn’t dared believe. Her fingers twitched against her knee.

“I know you’re scared,” he said, voice low. “But you already have this thing with her. The only difference now is whether you’re brave enough to admit it.”

The weight of his words lingered in the air.

Elphaba finally tore her eyes from the screen, blinking quickly.

“I have to go.”

“What? Where?”

“I don’t know. I just…need to think.”

“Elphaba”

But she was already walking out of the door.

Elphaba was in the back of a car, sunglasses hiding tired eyes, as she tapped into her brand-new phone. The city sped by outside the tinted windows.

Elphaba: Hey. Sorry you didn’t hear from me last night. I smashed my phone like a complete idiot and just got a new one. I’m in meetings all day, but can we talk later?

Meanwhile, Galinda was curled in bed with a pounding hangover and makeup smudged under her eyes. She heard the buzz and fumbled for her phone.

When she saw the name on the screen, her heart leapt and then relief flooded through her. There was a reason. She wasn’t ghosted. She wasn’t forgotten.

She smiled and typed back.

Galinda: You’re alive!! Thank God. I was starting to worry. Yes. We can talk later. Hope the meetings aren’t too hellish x

Elphaba:  No need to worry. You can call off the search party. How were cast drinks?

Galinda: So fun!! A bit hungover this morning though…why did we do tequila shots??

Elphaba exhaled through a half-smile. She could picture Galinda’s scrunched-up face, clutching a green juice or some impossibly expensive iced coffee.

Galinda: What happened to your phone btw??

Elphaba stared at the screen. For a second, she considered writing the truth. The whole unraveling mess of last night. But instead, she replied:

Elphaba: I’ll explain later.

She took a deep breath, then pulled up her recent calls and tapped Fiyero.

He picked up on the second ring.

“Elphaba?” His voice was soft, tentative. “Hey. How are you…after last night?”

She closed her eyes. She could still feel the echo of herself in his apartment; wild-eyed, frantic, barely holding it together. “I need a favour,” she said instead. “Can you get Rachel to reschedule everything for me for the next few days?”

There was a pause. “Yeah, of course I can. But… are you okay? I mean, after yesterday, I…are you doing something stupid?”

She almost smiled. Almost. “I didn’t sleep,” she admitted. “Was up all night.”

“That’s what I was afraid of,” he said quietly. “Where are you going?”

She hesitated, watching the city rush past through the car window. Then, finally, “The airport. I’m flying to L.A.”

Fiyero was silent, and then cautiously, he asked, “You are?”

“I don’t know what I’m doing,” she said, a little softer now. “But I thought about what you said. All of it. And…I want to be with her. She is so different to all other girls and she makes me feel things…things I never thought I’d feel again. I need to tell her that.”

Fiyero let out a breath that sounded almost like a laugh. “Elphaba…that’s…that’s good. That’s really good.”

“I just…” Her voice cracked a little. “I’m terrified of letting myself be happy, but I need her to know.”

“I didn’t want to tell you before,” Fiyero said, gentler than she’d ever heard him, “but I think she’s really good for you. I was hoping you wouldn’t mess this thing up.”

She huffed a short, shaky laugh.

“Go get your girl,” he said. “Don’t worry about work. I’ve got it.”

Elphaba stared out the window again, her heart pounding but lighter than it had been. “Thanks,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “Really.”

Elphaba sat curled into a stiff terminal seat, hood pulled up, sunglasses shielding her from the fluorescent burn of the lights above. Her phone sat heavy in her hand, screen glowing faintly as she scrolled through photos of them online.

Each photo was one the press had taken over the last couple of months during their ridiculous fake dating charade; red carpets, backstage shots, blurry paparazzi snaps of them walking into cafes. But as Elphaba looked at them now, her chest ached in a new way. Galinda’s eyes, so open, so impossibly full, kept finding her in every frame.

How did I miss it?

In one picture, they were walking arm in arm, laughing. Elphaba had always dismissed the expression on her own face as performative. But now… she looked happy. Really happy. And it didn’t look fake. It looked like someone seeing the world in colour for the first time.

She turned her screen off for a moment and leaned back against the cold plastic seat. Her throat was tight. All night she had rehearsed it, what she’d say when she saw Galinda. How she’d tell her she overheard Crope saying Galinda was in love with her. How she’d admit she wanted to make it real, that she was scared and slow and messy, but she wanted her. She chose her.

The boarding announcement for her gate crackled overhead, but she barely heard it.

Her phone buzzed.

1 New Article: “New Flame for Galinda Upland?”

Without thinking, Elphaba clicked.

There was a photo. Galinda, outside a bar. Milla’s arms wrapped around her. Milla’s lips pressed to the top of Galinda’s head. The headline screamed:

“Galinda Upland Sparks Romance Rumours with Co-Star Milla”

Are things over with Elphaba Thropp? Or is this an overlapping affair? Sources say the couple hasn’t been spotted together in two weeks, while Galinda’s been inseparable from Milla, her co-star on ‘Wicked Intentions’. The pair, who reportedly attended college together, may be rekindling an old flame…

Elphaba felt the words crawl under her skin like ants. Her heart squeezed painfully in her chest. Her first thought was No. This isn’t what it looks like.

But then that other voice, the darker, older one, cut in.

You idiot. You really thought you were different?

She stared at the image. At Galinda, in someone else’s arms. At that soft, familiar smile on her face, the one Elphaba thought was hers. She suddenly hated how exposed she felt. How visible her hope had been.

She stood, too fast. Her legs wobbled under her, but she pushed forward, phone shoved in her pocket, not even glancing toward the boarding gate. She needed air. She needed out.

The buzz of the terminal faded behind her as she strode down the corridor, away from her gate. Away from the flight. Away from what she’d thought was a beginning.

She didn’t even realise she was crying until the first tear hit her collarbone.

Galinda groaned as she woke for the second time that morning. She cracked one eye open, her head pounding like a bass drum. The sunlight was far too enthusiastic for how awful she felt. Her limbs were tangled in the sheets, and the faint taste of tequila still haunted her tongue. She blindly reached for her phone on the nightstand.

The moment she touched it, it started buzzing. A FaceTime call from Pfanee lit up the screen.

She winced, squinting. “Why are you calling me?” she muttered, swiping to answer. The screen opened to Pfanee’s ‘serious business’ face.

“Galinda,” he said, urgent. “Tell me you’ve seen the news.”

She blinked at him, puffy-eyed and disoriented. “Pfanee, I just woke up. I haven’t seen anything.”

He sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose, then tapped his screen. “Check your messages. I just sent you the link.”

Galinda pulled it up with one eye open.

“Galinda Upland Sparks Romance Rumours with Co-Star Milla”

She stared at the headline, then scrolled down to the photo of Milla kissing her on the head. Her stomach dropped. “You have to be kidding me.”

Pfanee’s voice was tight. “So… is it true?”

She groaned and dropped her head back on the pillow, covering her face with her hand. “No, of course it’s not true. Milla is just a friend. We were outside talking, and I was upset, and she hugged me. That’s all. No secret romance. No cheating. God.”

He relaxed visibly. “Okay, okay, good. That’s all I needed to know. But listen, the press is already running with the ‘cheater’ narrative. It’s ugly. We need to go on the offensive. We’ve worked too hard on this relationship with Elphaba to just let a well timed photo ruin all of our progress. Maybe a statement or…hold on, getting another call…ugh, it’s Morrible. I’ll call you right back.”

The screen went dark.

Galinda stared at the blank screen, heart rate officially in the stratosphere. Her head still pounded, but she was wide awake now.

Why was this all happening again? She hated that her private life was something that was used for entertainment. She thought about Elphaba and how, yet again, she had been pulled into a situation she hadn’t asked for. She didn’t think Elphaba would worry about the article, she would probably say something sarcastic. She was pretty sure that Pfanee would have them meeting up in the next couple of days to shut down the rumours, but still, part of her wanted to explain.

She sat up, hair a mess, and immediately pulled open her texts.

Galinda: I’ve just seen  what they’re saying online. Milla is just a friend. The photo is completely taken out of context and this whole thing is ridiculous. I imagine we will be seeing each other again, sooner than we thought x

Her thumb hovered, then she hit send, watching the message fly off with a little whoosh.

Her phone buzzed again. She answered on the first ring.

“That was Morrible,” Pfanee said without preamble. “She wants to see us now. Something about ‘media optics.’ They are calling in Milla too. You need to get dressed. The car’ll be there in ten.”

Galinda groaned again and flopped back against her pillows.

“Can I at least have coffee first?”

“Nope. Get dressed. Let’s go.”

Galinda hung up, tossing the phone aside, and dragged herself out of bed. She rubbed her temples, muttering to herself as she stumbled toward the closet.

Galinda stepped out of the car behind Pfanee, her oversized sunglasses doing little to hide the tension in her jaw. She spotted Milla waiting just outside the double doors, nervously scrolling her phone.

“Hey,” Milla said, slipping the device into her pocket.

“Hey,” Galinda echoed, giving her a quick hug. Milla looked as nervous as she felt, though she tried to muster a smile.

Together, the three of them entered the studio lobby, as a receptionist waved them through. The room was already lit when they stepped in. Sitting at the long table were two figures.

Morrible, sat ramrod straight in a pristine lavender blazer. Her expression was smooth as porcelain, and just as cold.

Next to her was a man Galinda didn’t immediately recognise; tall, silver-haired, and wearing a dark suit that looked impossibly expensive. His eyes were sharp, but his smile was all charm.

“Ah, Galinda,” Morrible said, standing with mock warmth. “Thank you for coming on such short notice. You too, Pfanee. And Milla, dear…welcome.”

The man stood as well, offering a hand. “Oscar Diggs,” he said, shaking Galinda’s hand with a grip just a little too tight. “Legal counsel for the production. Though in this town, most people just call me the Wizard.”

Galinda glanced at Pfanee, whose brow immediately furrowed in recognition.

“We’re here,” Pfanee said, setting down his bag, “because of the article, I assume?”

“Correct,” Morrible said, settling back into her seat. “Let’s not waste time. We’re concerned. The optics are spiralling. And we need to know now, are you and Milla in a relationship?”

Galinda blinked. “What? No. We’re friends. That photo is nothing. I was upset, and she…”

“Comforted her,” Milla said quickly. “That’s it. Nothing romantic.”

Pfanee nodded. “We’ve got this under control. I’ll be issuing a clarification through Galinda’s channels by end of day. We’ll make it go away. Let people scream into the void for 24 hours, and then it’s old news.”

Morrible’s expression didn’t change. “That’s exactly what we were worried about.”

Oscar steepled his fingers and leaned forward, voice smooth and calm. “You see, when the girls signed their contracts, they agreed to a clause. Page thirty-two, subsection B. It stipulates all public relations and press matters will be handled solely by the production company. That includes anything involving personal matters, Mr. Pfanee.”

Pfanee frowned. “With respect, I represent Galinda.”

“And we represent a multi-million dollar franchise,” Oscar interrupted, still smiling. “Which means our say is final. We’re not looking for a rebuttal. In fact, we insist there isn’t one. No statements. No social media posts. No side interviews. Nothing that isn’t approved by us.”

“You can’t be serious,” Pfanee said, incredulous.

“Deadly,” Morrible replied. “The integrity of the Wicked Intentions brand is more important than any misinterpreted cuddle photo. We will not have the press turning this into a circus.”

“But they’re saying I cheated,” Galinda cut in, frustration rising. “They’re painting me as some slut having an affair! You can’t expect me to stay silent about that.”

“If you speak out,” Oscar said mildly, “you will be in breach of contract. That means a lawsuit for damages that could total in the millions. And as for Miss Milla here…”

He turned toward the younger actress, his smile dimming by a fraction.

“We can afford to lose her.”

Milla stiffened.

“You wouldn’t,” Galinda said quietly.

“We will,” Morrible replied. “If it protects the project. You’re the big name here. She is expendable.”

Pfanee leaned forward, voice rising. “You can’t threaten them like this. We’ll take this public.”

Oscar cut him off with a sharp look. “You take this public, and I promise you, we will be seeing you in court. You may be a great publicist, but I’m the Wizard in the court room, and I guarantee you that I will take you both for everything that you have.”

The room went still.

Galinda looked at Milla, whose eyes were wide with shock. Then at Pfanee, who looked like he was holding back an explosion. And then back to Morrible and Oscar; calm, ruthless, and utterly in control.

“Now,” Oscar said, standing and straightening his cuffs. “If we’re all clear, we’ll expect your silence to be your signature.”

The doorbell rang precisely at eleven-thirty, just as Galinda had asked. She’d barely had time to pull on leggings and a hoodie, her hair tied up in a messy bun, when the doorbell had gone off. She padded barefoot to the door and opened it to reveal Crope and Tibbett, both of whom were holding coffees.

“Hello, sunshine!” Crope chirped, leaning in to kiss her cheek. “You look…tender.”

“She looks hungover,” Tibbett said, handing her the coffee. “Also, is that last night’s eyeliner?”

“I’m not hungover,” Galinda muttered, stepping aside to let them in. “I just…didn’t sleep.”

Tibbett raised an eyebrow. “Glin, you didn’t text us back. At all. Yesterday. You go dark for a whole day and then ask us to come over like it’s totally normal?”

Crope added, more gently, “We were seriously worried.”

Galinda nodded, swallowing thickly. “I know. I’m sorry. I didn’t know what to say. I’ve been…” She broke off and waved vaguely at her face. “…crying. Mostly.”

Galinda collapsed onto her couch while they settled either side of her.

“So,” Crope began, “we didn’t come here to gossip. But also…we very much came here to gossip. What the hell is going on? That photo with Milla? Reddit is up in arms.”

Tibbett leaned forward. “But seriously, are you okay? That comes first.”

Galinda stared into her coffee cup. Her voice came out cracked. “No. I’m not okay. But I’m really glad you’re here.”

Crope reached over and squeezed her knee. “Always, darling. So tell us what happened.”

Galinda took a shaky breath. “The photo was nothing. Milla was comforting me. I was upset, we hugged, and some photographer managed to get a photo.”

Tibbett frowned. “So why didn’t you just post something? Clarify it?”

Galinda’s tone turned tight. “Because I wasn’t allowed to. Morrible and her lawyer ambushed us. Said if I tried to speak out, Milla would be fired. They reminded me of the gag clauses in our contracts.”

Crope’s mouth fell open. “Wait, they blackmailed you with your friend’s career?”

Galinda nodded. “And not subtly. Said she was ‘expendable.’ Told me I’d be in breach if I contradicted the press narrative.”

Tibbett swore softly.

“I thought it would blow over,” Galinda said. “I thought Elphaba would trust me. That I could talk to her before she believed the worst. But…”

She took a shaky breath.

“She blocked me.”

“What?” Crope blinked.

“She blocked me. Her legal team sent Pfanee a formal notice yesterday, to terminate the contract. No contact. Full stop.”

Crope stared. “That sounds extreme.”

Galinda laughed, bitter. “I know. But there’s more.”

She glanced between them. “There’s a woman. Trying to sell a story about Elphaba. She claimed something happened in a club two nights ago, something non-consensual. It lines up with a blind item that is obviously about her, and people are already speculating.”

Tibbett’s eyes widened. “Are you serious?”

Before Galinda could answer, her phone buzzed sharply on the coffee table. She flinched, then reached for it, swiping to answer the call.

“Pfanee?” she said, already holding her breath.

On the other end, his voice was low but urgent. “I found her.”

Galinda sat straighter. “You did?”

“Yeah,” he confirmed. “I tracked her down through a friend who works at a magazine she was in contact with. Took some convincing, but she agreed to sign the NDA.”

Galinda exhaled, her shoulders slumping with visible relief. “Oh, thank God.”

“She asked for a hundred thousand,” Pfanee added, sounding almost apologetic. “She wouldn’t go lower. I tried.”

Galinda didn’t hesitate. “That’s fine. I told you, give her what she wanted.”

There was a pause, then a quiet, “Okay. Just wanted to confirm. It’s done.”

“Thank you,” she said, her voice softening. “Truly. I know this isn’t what you wanted, but I needed to do this.”

She hung up and set the phone down gently on the couch beside her. Crope and Tibbett were staring, their eyes questioning.

“I asked Pfanee to find the woman,” Galinda explained. “The one who was trying to sell the story. And he did.”

Crope blinked. “You actually got her to back off?”

I couldn’t just sit and watch it happen. So I paid the woman to sign an NDA. To shut it down. Completely.”

Crope sat back, stunned. “You…you paid someone off?”

“She wanted a hundred grand,” Galinda said. “And I gave it to her.”

Tibbett let out a low whistle. “Damn.”

“I just needed to protect her,” Galinda said, voice breaking. “Even if she isn’t talking to me.”

Tibbett looked heartbroken. “She doesn’t even know you did that for her, does she?”

Galinda shook her head. “No. And now I can’t tell her. She probably thinks I’m off with Milla and letting her burn in the press.”

“What happened the last time you two spoke?” Crope asked.

Galinda closed her eyes. “She messaged yesterday morning. Said she broke her phone and just got a new one. Said she’d explain everything later and asked if we could talk. But then nothing. No chance to tell her what happened. Or why I stayed quiet.”

Tibbett leaned in gently. “So what now? What are you going to do?”

Galinda blinked at him.

“I mean,” he continued, “do you give her space and wait for a chance to explain? Or do you try to move on?”

Crope added, “Because no judgment either way. But you have to know what you’re reaching for. Is it closure or another chance?”

Galinda’s voice was barely a whisper. “I want her. But not if it means bulldozing her boundaries.”

“Then let this breathe,” Crope said softly. “Let the media cycle move on. Let her head clear.”

Tibbett nodded. “And when the dust settles…find a way. Not through lawyers. Not online. In person.”

“And if she still doesn’t want to see me?” Galinda asked.

“Then at least you’ll know you did everything you could,” Crope said. “But I don’t think it ends here. Not for you two.”

Tibbett brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. “And until then? We’re here. You fall apart, we’ll glue you back together.”

Galinda gave a weak laugh, covering her face with one hand. “I don’t even know what I’m doing anymore.”

“You’re surviving,” Crope said, poking her knee. “And frankly? Doing it with a lot more grace than I would. I’d have gone full scorched-earth and set Morrible’s office on fire by now. Dramatically.”

“I’d have helped,” Tibbett chimed in.

Crope raised his coffee like a toast. “To surviving terrible press cycles and the toxic hydra that is the entertainment industry.”

Tibbett clinked his cup. “To gag orders and gay orders.”

Galinda choked on a laugh.

“But seriously,” Crope said, his voice softening as he reached for her hand again, “what you did? Paying that woman off to protect Elphaba? That wasn’t just brave. That was love. Stupid, inconvenient, love.”

“You’re like the romantic lead in a queer indie film,” Tibbett added.

“I’m not a lead,” Galinda muttered. “I’m just an extra.”

“Oh, nonsense.” Crope sniffed. “You are the entire third act. And if Elphaba can’t see that right now, then fine. Let her catch up. But you…” he gently tapped her forehead, “don’t let this mess define you.”

Tibbett nodded solemnly. “You are more than the worst day of your life, babe.”

Galinda stared down at her now half-empty cup. “I’m scared she won’t believe me.”

“You know what’s scarier?” Crope said. “Never trying. Sitting at home, wondering forever if you should’ve fought harder. You’re already in pain, don’t make it pointless.”

“And besides,” Tibbett added, “if she knew everything? I think she’d run to you. Like, full rom-com airport chase. Minus the TSA.”

Crope nodded. “I’d give anything to see her storm a terminal.”

They all sat in a pause of silence for a moment.

Galinda whispered, “Thank you.”

Crope squeezed her hand. “Anytime, darling. We’re your emotional pit crew.”

Galinda smiled at him and snuggled her body into his side.

“I don’t know what I’d do without you two. Seriously…thank you.”

Crope rested his cheek gently against the top of her head. “You’ll never have to find out.”

Tibbett stood and stretched. “Okay. Enough moping. I’m hungry.”

Galinda sat up just enough to reach for her phone. “My treat.”

“Absolutely not,” Tibbett said firmly. “You’ve already shelled out a hundred grand this week. We can spot lunch.”

Galinda gave a tired smile. “Fine.”

Crope grinned. “And after lunch, we’re watching something deeply trashy. I’m talking reality dating show levels of trash.”

“Binge mode activated,” Tibbett confirmed, already pulling out his phone to place the order. “And just so you know, we’re staying the night. No arguments.”

Galinda didn’t argue. She just leaned back again, pulled the throw blanket up to her chin, and let her eyes drift closed for a moment. The tight coil in her chest hadn’t disappeared, but it had loosened, just enough to breathe.

She would give Elphaba space. Let the storm pass. And when it did… she’s be ready.

Until then, she’d rest. Heal. And be held up by the people who saw her, even when she couldn’t see herself.

Two days later, Elphaba sat alone in her office, the steady click of her keyboard the only sound. The blinds were drawn just enough to keep out the morning light, and a half-drunk mug of coffee sat cold beside her.

The door burst open without warning.

Nessa wheeled herself into the room, her jaw set, eyes already narrowed. Elphaba didn’t even flinch. She just looked up from her laptop, one brow raised.

“You ever heard of knocking?” she asked, voice dry as paper.

Nessa didn’t slow. “Where the hell have you been?”

Elphaba’s fingers paused mid-keystroke. “Home.”

“Bullshit,” Nessa snapped. “I went to your place. The concierge hasn’t seen you in three days. Your phone’s been off. You just show up here like nothing happened? No calls, no texts, nothing. What is going on with you?”

Elphaba leaned back in her chair, arms folding tightly across her chest. “I just needed some space.”

Nessa stared at her, incredulous. “This is about Galinda, isn’t it?”

Elphaba’s expression didn’t shift, but something flickered behind her eyes, something like warning.

“I’m not talking about that,” she said evenly.

“She’s all over the internet with that photo. Everyone’s talking. What did she say about it? About the cast mate?”

“I don’t know,” Elphaba said flatly. “I haven’t asked.”

Nessa blinked. “What do you mean you haven’t asked?”

Elphaba’s composure cracked. She sat forward, voice rising.

“I mean we’re over, Nessa. I told her not to contact me anymore. I don’t want to talk about it.”

The air in the room shifted. Nessa recoiled slightly, her mouth falling open as if Elphaba had just spoken in a language she didn’t understand.

“You ended it? Without even asking her what happened? Without giving her a chance to explain?”

Elphaba’s silence was answer enough.

Nessa stared at her, genuinely stunned. “You haven’t even seen her. You haven’t even tried. God, Elphaba. You’re being so stupid.”

Elphaba’s shoulders tightened, but she didn’t respond.

“I haven’t seen you this happy in five years,” Nessa continued, her voice softer now, almost pleading. “Actually, no. I’ve never seen you as happy as you were with her.”

Elphaba looked away, jaw clenched so tight it trembled.

“She looked at you with so much love,” Nessa said quietly. “Like she couldn’t believe you existed.”

Elphaba gave a bitter laugh. “Of course she did. She’s an award-winning actress. Convincing people is what she does.”

Nessa flinched. She didn’t say anything right away. She just stared at her sister, trying to see through the armour Elphaba had clearly welded shut over the last few days.

Elphaba turned away, gaze falling back to her screen as if she could pretend the conversation had never happened. Her voice was clipped, cold.

“I’ve got three days of work to catch up on. So unless you have anything else to say, please leave.”

But Nessa didn’t move. Her hands tightened around the wheels of her chair.

“I actually do have something else,” she said, her tone steady. “The charity gala is coming up.”

Elphaba didn’t look up. “What about it?”

Nessa inhaled, bracing. “Where does that leave us now?”

Elphaba glanced over, brow furrowed. “What does that mean?”

“It means Galinda volunteered for the auction, remember? She’s the headliner.”

Elphaba’s response was immediate and final. “Absolutely not.”

Nessa didn’t flinch. “We’ve already announced it. She’s on the promo materials. Do you have any idea how much interest we’ve gotten because of her? How many RSVPs came in the day we revealed her name?”

Elphaba’s jaw tightened again. “Find someone else.”

“We can’t just pull her,” Nessa said. “You do that now, and it will derail the whole gala.” 

Nessa pushed further. “We’ve already had one sponsor triple their donation because of her involvement. If she backs out now, they’ll walk. And we’re talking about paying for critical care beds. Equipment. Medication. If you yank her from this out of spite, the only people who suffer are sick kids who don’t deserve to lose out because of your relationship drama.”

Elphaba rubbed both hands hard over her face. She stayed like that for a moment, breathing through her teeth, the weight of everything threatening to crush her chest. When she finally dropped her hands, her face was pale and tight with frustration.

“Fine,” she said hoarsely. “Leave her in.”

Nessa nodded once, her voice cool. “Thank you.”

She turned and began wheeling toward the door. Just before she crossed the threshold, she paused. Didn’t look back.

“But Elphaba?” she said, her voice quieter now, laced with something more than frustration. “You should find out the truth. From her. Not from the headlines. Not from your own fear.”

She lingered just a moment longer. “What you had with Galinda, it deserves at least that.”

Silence stretched between them. Then, finally, Elphaba spoke.

“I appreciate your concern, Nessa.”

She turned her eyes back to the screen, fingers poised again over the keys.

“But I’m done with that.”

“And finally, our last auction of the evening, and I think you’ll all agree we’ve saved the best for last.” 

Chairs shifted. A murmur rippled through the room.

Fiyero paused in the doorway for a moment before stepping inside.

“Sorry I’m late,” he said with a soft smile. “You look lovely.”

He leaned in and pressed a kiss to her cheek. She didn’t quite lean into it, but she didn’t flinch either. Instead, she offered a tight smile that didn’t reach her eyes.

“How are you?” he asked gently as he took the seat across from her.

She didn’t answer right away. “Why?”

Fiyero blinked. “Why what?”

“Why did you bid on me?” she said, cutting straight through the niceties. “Why a million dollars?”

He leaned back slightly in his chair, then gave a half-smile. “Surely you’ve guessed.”

She frowned. “I don’t know what that means.”

Fiyero folded his hands on the table. “As lovely as you are, Galinda, I definitely do not have a million dollars.”

She stared at him. “Then how did you win?”

He looked at her for a long moment. Then, simply said, “I don’t have a million, but we both know someone who does.”

Galinda’s breath caught. She stilled, as if the realisation had only just fully clicked into place.

“…Elphaba,” she whispered.

He nodded once, slow. “She was telling me when to bid. How much. I was just the hand.”

Galinda’s heart thudded in her chest. “She got you to bid for her?”

“Yes.”

Her voice was quieter now. “But why?”

Fiyero gave a small shrug. “She didn’t want you to have to be alone with Avaric. Not for even one second.”

Before Galinda could respond, the door to the private room eased open. A sharply dressed server stepped inside, carrying a bottle of wine in one hand and a tray with two small plated starters in the other.

“Good evening,” the server said smoothly. “Your wine, as requested.”

He set the bottle down on the table, presented the label with a courteous tilt of the bottle, and poured a small taste for Fiyero, who nodded.

“It’s perfect, thank you,” Fiyero murmured.

The server filled both glasses and then placed the starters before them.

“If there’s anything else you need, just let me know,” the server added before quietly withdrawing and closing the door behind him.

Fiyero hesitated. “She didn’t want anyone to know it was her and she told me she wouldn’t come.”

Galinda’s laugh was soft, a little sad. “Of course not.”

There was a long silence between them. The waiter entered briefly, filled their water glasses, then disappeared again.

Galinda glanced up. “Nessa said she isn’t happy.”

Fiyero nodded. “She’s not.”

“She blocked me,” Galinda said, her voice cracking slightly. “I thought she hated me.”

“She doesn’t.” His voice was gentle now. “But the pictures of you with that actress…” He trailed off.

Galinda closed her eyes. “That wasn’t what it looked like.”

“I figured.”

Galinda’s throat tightened. “She didn’t even ask.”

“She assumed the worst,” he said, not unkindly. “It’s what she does. She thinks it’s safer.”

The silence stretched again.

Galinda took a sip of her water and then took a breath. “I have to tell you what happened. With Morrible. With Milla. All of it.”

Fiyero put down his glass, suddenly alert. “Okay.”

“We went outside during cast drinks,” she said. “I was upset, Milla hugged me, kissed the top of my head. That’s it. But someone took a photo and ran with it.”

He nodded slowly, not interrupting.

“The next morning the picture was published and Morrible dragged us in…me, Pfanee, and Milla. There was the production company’s lawyer there too.” Her voice was flat. “They said I wasn’t allowed to deny the story and had to stay silent. No statements, no clarifications.”

Fiyero frowned. “What the hell?”

“They made it clear. If I spoke up, they’d fire Milla and sue me for millions.”

His face darkened. “Jesus.”

“I wanted to call Elphaba. I texted her right after I saw the photo leak. I told her it wasn’t what it looked like, but she didn’t respond. I tried to call after the meeting… but I realised she’d already blocked me. Her legal team sent me a notice, terminating everything, and authorising me not to contact you or her.”

Fiyero stared at her. “She blocked you? Without even talking to you?”

Galinda nodded, blinking hard. “Yesterday, she agreed to talk to me today. I thought…I thought she’d let me explain, but I’ve not heard from her since then.”

He leaned back in his chair, mouth tightening. “She’s going to kill me when she finds out I’ve told you this,” he muttered.

Galinda looked up sharply. “What?”

“She told me not to say anything, but I should’ve said something. Ages ago. This is ridiculous.”

Galinda’s eyes narrowed. “Told me what?”

Fiyero hesitated, then sighed. “Where she was when she saw that article. The one with you and Milla.”

She stilled. “Where was she?”

“She was at the airport.”

Galinda’s breath caught. “Why?”

He looked her straight in the eye. “Because she was catching a flight to L.A. To see you.”

Her voice came out almost as a whisper. “Why?”

“Because,” Fiyero said gently, “she wanted to tell you that she wanted to be with you. That you were it for her.”

Galinda froze. The noise of the restaurant seemed to vanish.

“She was fighting it for a while,” Fiyero said quietly. “You know how she is. Her last relationship wrecked her. She wasn’t sure she could trust anyone again, but she’d finally figured it out. She wanted you. She was on her way to tell you that. And then she saw the headline.”

Galinda’s hand went to her mouth. “Fuck.”

Fiyero gave her a sympathetic look.

Galinda let out a sharp, bitter laugh. “You know what the ironic thing is about all of this?”

He tilted his head. “What?”

“That day, she asked if we could talk later. Obviously that didn’t happen, but I…I was going to tell her…” Her voice cracked. “I’d fallen for her.”

Fiyero barked a disbelieving laugh. “God. She’s an idiot.”

Galinda didn’t reply. She needed him to find Milla. She needed to know why.

She paused in front of the mirror, arms folded tightly across her chest. Her reflection looked like a stranger.

Her phone rang again. She froze at the name.

Fiyero.

She didn’t even hesitate.

Morrible smiled, but it didn’t reach her eyes. “We wanted a word about Galinda.”

Milla shook her head. “I don’t know. Galinda’s my friend. I wouldn’t do that to her.”

The hospital was crawling with press. 

Galinda pulled up her hood as she stepped out of the car, trying not to draw attention. She had decided she couldn’t wait at the hotel any longer and had quickly called for a car to take her there. Cameras flashed across the street, panning for any glimpse through the main doors. They had obviously gotten word of the accident. She ducked to the side and hurried, trying to remain incognito. She somehow managed to make it to the front entrance without being seen and slipped inside.

Inside, a familiar sterile hospital smell overhwlemed her. A nurse behind the reception desk looked up. “Can I help you?”

Galinda stepped forward, lowering her hood. “I’m looking for Elphaba Thropp. She was admitted earlier today. I’m a friend.”

The nurse’s expression didn’t change. “I’m sorry, but we can’t give out information about patients unless you’re listed as next of kin.”

Galinda’s heart hammered. “I’m not just… I…” She swallowed. “I’m not, but I need to know if she’s okay. Please.”

The nurse offered an apologetic smile. “I’m really sorry.”

Galinda stepped away, fumbling her phone out of her pocket. Her hands were shaking as she found Fiyero’s contact.

He answered on the third ring. “Galinda?”

“I’m here,” she said breathlessly. “I’m at the hospital, but they won’t tell me where to go. They won’t even confirm she’s here.”

There was a pause. “You’re here?”

“Yes,” she said. “I had to come. I know you said to wait and she probably won’t want to see me, but I couldn’t…Fiyero, I had to.”

Something in his voice softened. “Okay. Alright. Stay there. I’ll come find you.”

He found her near the elevators, half-concealed behind a vending machine.

“Galinda,” he said, relief flooding his face.

She didn’t say anything. Just looked at him, eyes red, jaw clenched tight.

Fiyero stepped forward and tugged her into a hug. She collapsed against him, chest heaving with silent sobs.

“C’mon,” he murmured. “We’re just down the corridor.”

He led her through a set of double doors and down a quiet hallway. Just outside a waiting room sat Nessa, curled in on herself, arms wrapped tight around her middle, and Boq sat with his arm around her shoulders.

They looked up when they heard footsteps and Nessa’s eyes went wide when she saw Galinda.

Galinda stopped. Her heart ached. “Nessa,” she whispered. “I’m so sorry,” voice breaking as she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around her.

Nessa clung to her, burying her face into Galinda. “She’s such an idiot,” she choked. “But I’m really glad you’re here.”

Galinda nodded against her. “Me too.”

They pulled apart when the door nearby opened. A man in navy scrubs stepped out, clipboard in hand.

“Are you Elphaba Thropp’s family?” he asked.

“I am,” Nessa said immediately, and then without hesitation reached back and laced her fingers through Galinda’s.

Galinda’s throat tightened, but she didn’t say anything.

The man gave them all a quick, professional nod. “I’m Dr. Thomas. I just came from surgery. Everything went as expected.”

They all exhaled at once. Galinda’s knees nearly gave out from the wave of relief.

“She sustained several injuries,” Dr. Thomas went on. “Three fractured ribs, a broken clavicle. There was also some swelling on the brain, so we’ve placed her in an induced coma.”

Nessa stiffened. “A coma?”

“Medically induced,” he assured them. “Just to give her body the space and time it needs to recover. It’s precautionary. Not permanent.”

Galinda squeezed Nessa’s hand, and Nessa held on tighter.

Dr. Thomas glanced toward the hallway. “We’re transferring her to a private room now. Once she’s settled, someone will come and bring you in.”

“Thank you,” Nessa whispered.

He nodded once more and disappeared back through the doors.

The hallway fell quiet again and Galinda didn’t let go of Nessa’s hand.

For a moment, Nessa didn’t move. Her eyes stayed locked on the door the doctor had gone through, as if still trying to process the words. Then, slowly, her fingers began to tremble.

“She was fine this morning,” she said, barely above a whisper. “She was fine. She was yelling at me about something stupid and I told her to…” Her voice caught. “I told her to go to hell.”

Galinda’s breath hitched. “Nessa…”

Nessa shook her head violently. “I didn’t mean it. Of course I didn’t. I was just mad and she was being impossible and now she’s…” Her voice cracked. “Now she’s lying there, alone, with a machine breathing for her.”

Boq moved to her other side, placing his hand gently on her back.

“I’m scared,” she whispered, and then it was like the dam broke. She began to sob, quiet but ragged, like she was trying to keep it in and failing miserably.

Galinda wrapped both arms around her and pulled her close. “I know,” she murmured. “I know. But you’re not alone. We’re all here for you. We’re all here.”

Boq rested his forehead against Nessa’s shoulder, eyes glassy, his hand still rubbing slow circles on her back.

Nessa clung to Galinda like a lifeline, her small frame shaking. “She has to wake up. She has to.”

“She will,” Galinda whispered, though her own voice wasn’t entirely steady. “She’s Elphaba. She doesn’t know how to give up.”

The three of them stayed like that, pressed together in the quiet of the hallway

Galinda was still seated, one leg crossed over the other, her phone pressed tightly to her ear. Across the corridor, Nessa sat curled into Boq’s side, her eyes rimmed red. He held her hand silently, his other arm resting behind her shoulders.

“Yes, Pfanee, I heard you,” Galinda said into the phone. Her voice was tight, brittle. “You want me back in L.A. tonight for some emergency strategy session. You’ve been fielding calls from Morrible…again. She’s trying to get me into a room before this all explodes. I get it.”

She pinched the bridge of her nose, eyes shut. “But I’m not coming back tonight. I’m at the hospital. Elphaba is in a coma, and I’m not leaving her. I’m not making any decisions until tomorrow. And Pfanee…don’t contact me again tonight. I mean it.”

She ended the call just as Fiyero returned, balancing a tray of four paper cups.

“Hospital grade,” he said with a wince. “But it’s technically coffee.”

“Thank you,” Nessa murmured.

Boq took his with a grateful nod. “You’re a good man.”

Galinda reached for hers but didn’t drink it. She looked pale, tired, her phone still clutched in her hand.

Fiyero sat beside her. “What’s going on?” he asked gently.

Galinda shook her head slightly. “Everything.”

“Be specific.”

She looked down at her coffee cup, barely able to meet his eyes. “Milla.”

Fiyero stiffened. “What about her?”

“She’s been working with Morrible and Oscar from the start. The photo…it wasn’t an accident. She acted like she didn’t know what was going on, like she was just trying to be there for me. But it was all fake.”

Boq blinked, stunned. Nessa’s brows furrowed, her focus narrowing.

“That interview today,” Galinda whispered. “Morrible told her what to say, and she went along with it. She said everything. The way they wanted the story spun. And now Elphaba’s in there, because of it. Because of me.”

Her voice cracked on the last word.

“If I hadn’t trusted her… if I hadn’t been so…so naïve, none of this would’ve happened. Morrible wouldn’t have had her mouthpiece. They wouldn’t have been able to twist everything. And Elphaba wouldn’t have gotten hurt.”

Nessa suddenly sat forward, her voice sharp and clear. “Hey. Stop.”

Galinda looked at her, startled.

“This is not your fault,” Nessa said. “Do you hear me? It’s not.”

“Nessa…”

“No,” she said firmly, eyes wet but fierce. “Yes, Milla betrayed you. Yes, Morrible is disgusting. But Elphaba made her own choices too. She shouldn’t have let the press get in her head. She should’ve listened to you. You tried.”

Galinda’s mouth trembled.

“Please don’t blame yourself,” Nessa said, quieter now. “This was never on you.”

Fiyero reached for his phone, typing something. “Well, whoever is to blame… they’re going to regret it.”

After a beat, he looked back up. “I’ve set up a meeting for you tomorrow. With the Thropp Enterprises lawyers. Just a conversation, but…they’re the best. Elphaba only works with people who fight tooth and nail.”

Galinda blinked at him, stunned. “Fiyero…”

“I know you have your own team,” he added. “But you shouldn’t face this alone. And I trust them. So would she.”

Galinda looked around at the three of them, then she leaned in and hugged him, holding on.

“Thank you,” she whispered.

“You’ve got us,” he murmured back.

And they went back to silence as they waited.

The door at the end of the corridor creaked open, and a nurse stepped out, scanning the group.

“You’re here for Elphaba Thropp?” she asked gently.

Boq, Fiyero and Galinda suddenly stood.

“She’s settled in her room now,” the nurse said. “You can see her…two at a time.”

Fiyero immediately looked to Nessa. “You and Boq go first.”

Nessa hesitated, glancing at Galinda.

Fiyero gave her a quiet nod. “Go. She’s your sister.”

Nessa nodded, squeezing Galinda’s hand before she and Boq followed the nurse down the corridor and through the heavy door.

And then it was just the two of them.

Galinda let out a shaky breath and sat back down. Her fingers fidgeted around the rim of her coffee cup, untouched and now cold. Fiyero sat beside her again, resting his arms on his knees.

“She’s going to be okay,” he said quietly.

Galinda nodded, staring at the floor. “I know. I just… I still feel like I’m holding my breath.”

He gave her a small smile. “One day, we’re going to look back on all of this. And you and Elphaba are going to be annoying and in love and throwing the world off its axis again. I can’t wait for your wedding. Genuinely. That’s going to be a party for the history books.”

Galinda let out a laugh that cracked halfway through and turned into tears. “That would be some comeback, wouldn’t it?” she said, wiping her eyes.

Fiyero smiled. “Yeah. But if anyone’s capable of it… it’s you two.”

Galinda looked down the hallway where Nessa and Boq had disappeared, then leaned her head briefly on Fiyero’s shoulder. “Thank you. For everything.”

“Always,” he said, softly.

And they waited, together.

The door creaked softly as Nessa and Boq came back into the corridor. Their eyes were red-rimmed, Nessa’s face still blotchy from crying. Boq gently touched Galinda’s shoulder in quiet solidarity.

“She’s stable,” Nessa said, her voice thick. “Just… go see her.”

Galinda stood, smoothing her outfit with trembling fingers. “Right,” she said, breathless. “Let’s go.”

But when she looked over, Fiyero wasn’t moving. He stood there, hands in his pockets, watching her gently.

“I’m going to wait,” he said. “You go in first.”

She blinked. “Are you sure?”

He gave her a soft smile. “She needs to hear your voice. And I think… you need to be with her. Just you.”

Galinda nodded, her chest tightening. “Thank you.”

He nodded back, eyes warm and knowing.

She turned and walked slowly toward the door at the end of the hallway. Her heart thundered in her chest as she reached for the handle, hesitating just a second. She took in a shaky breath, then pushed it open.

The room was dim and quiet, save for the steady beeping of a heart monitor and the sound of the ventilator. There was a deep purple swelling beneath one eye and a cut across her brow. She could see bruises covering her exposed skin. Her arm was in a sling. There were bandages along her collarbone. Her chest rose and fell with mechanical rhythm.

Galinda’s breath caught in her throat. She felt sick.

She stepped in slowly, barely daring to move too fast. Her eyes never left Elphaba. She walked around the bed, knees weak, and lowered herself into the chair beside her.

Her hand trembled as she reached out. Gently, shakily, she took Elphaba’s hand in her own.

“Elphie,” she whispered, voice cracking. “It’s me. It’s Galinda.”

Her throat burned. “You might not want to hear from me right now. I wouldn’t blame you. But I needed to see that you were okay. Or… as okay as you can be right now.”

She gave a weak, watery laugh. “God, I hate seeing you like this.”

Her hand curled tightly around Elphaba’s, her thumb brushed across her knuckles like she was trying to memorise the shape of her. The bruises on Elphaba’s face looked darker this close. The cut on her forehead had been stitched neatly, but it looked raw and angry, and seeing it hurt more than anything Galinda expected.

She shifted forward in the chair, leaning in, eyes never leaving her face.

“I don’t even know where to start,” she said, her voice trembling. “I thought maybe if I rehearsed this enough in my head, I’d get it right. But I didn’t think it would be like this…you unconscious and me… well, talking to myself.”

She let out a small breath, almost a laugh, but it broke on the end.

“You have no idea how much you’ve turned my life upside down. You just…waltzed into it with your scowl and your sarcasm and your absolute refusal to let me get away with anything. And it terrified me. Still does.”

Her eyes stung.

“I’ve never felt like this about anyone. Not even close. I thought I knew what love was. I thought it was something… safe. Simple. Tidy. But you’re none of those things. You’re complicated and sharp and brilliant and you ask me questions that no one’s ever dared ask. And it scares me because I never know what I’m doing around you. I never feel like I’m in control.”

She pressed her lips together, blinking fast.

“But maybe that’s the point. Maybe love isn’t about control. Maybe it’s supposed to make you messy and unsure and brave.”

She squeezed Elphaba’s hand a little tighter.

“I’ve done so many things wrong, Elphie. I kept quiet when I shouldn’t have. I let other people manipulate me. I let them turn me into someone I barely recognised…someone who looked brave on the outside, but was too afraid to tell the truth.”

Her voice dropped and broke.

“I should’ve told you sooner. That I liked you. That I more than liked you. That I think about you all the time, even when I try not to. That I’ve been so afraid of ruining everything that I ended up ruining it anyway.”

She moved closer, brushing Elphaba’s fingers with her lips.

“I know you might not want to give those another chance, but I want one. I want to fight for you. I want to be the kind of person who shows up, not just when it’s easy or pretty or convenient. I want to be there for all of it, even the messy and stubborn parts of you.”

Her throat tightened again.

“I just… I want you to wake up. I want you to open those ridiculously intense eyes and say something scathing and roll them at me.”

She swallowed, tears started falling freely.

“I think I fell for you that very first night, and I think… I think I’ve been falling ever since. Every moment. Every time you made me feel seen. Like I wasn’t just… some polished version of myself.”

Her voice softened to a whisper.

“I love you, Elphaba. I don’t know when exactly it happened, but it did. And it’s real and huge and terrifying, and I don’t want to imagine a world without you in it. So please. Please wake up. I want to tell you all of this again when you’re looking at me. I want you to hear it. I want you to believe it.”

She rested her forehead against the back of Elphaba’s hand.

“I’m here. Just…come back to me.”

There was a gentle knock on the doorframe.

She sat up quickly, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand.

Fiyero stood there, a silhouette in the dim hallway light. “Hey,” he said softly. “Sorry to interrupt. They need to do some checks in about ten minutes.”

Galinda nodded, brushing a hand through her hair. “Of course. No, it’s fine.”

He stepped in carefully. “Mind if I come in for a minute?”

“Not at all,” she said, getting to her feet. She glanced back at Elphaba and smiled faintly. “I should probably head back to the hotel anyway. I need to try and sleep… deal with all of the mess tomorrow.”

Fiyero nodded, understanding.

Galinda leaned down, taking Elphaba’s hand again and pressing a gentle kiss to her knuckles. “I’m going to go now, Elphie,” she murmured. “So Fiyero can spend some time with you.” Her voice caught. “Please…get better.”

She lingered a second longer, then straightened and walked to the door. She stopped in front of Fiyero, eyes shining.

He opened his arms without a word, and she stepped into the hug.

“Any change at all,” she whispered into his shoulder, “please let me know.”

“You’ll be the first to know,” he said, voice steady. “Be careful with the crowd outside.”

They held onto each other a moment longer, then Galinda pulled back, nodding once, before slipping into the hallway and out of sight.

Fiyero turned toward Elphaba, his expression quiet, then closed the door behind him.

It was the next evening, and Galinda felt like she had aged a decade in a single day.

She sat slouched on the couch in her New York hotel suite, her body heavy with exhaustion. A tray of room service sat untouched on the table, long gone cold, next to a mess of notepads, printed contracts, and scribbled drafts. Her laptop was still open, its screen casting a blue glow over the dim room, and her phone lay face-up beside her. It was on speaker, still connected to the call that had been going for nearly two hours.

She’d been in meetings all day with lawyers from Thropp Enterprises, with her own legal team, with agents, and publicists. One meeting had blurred into the next until her head ached and her throat was raw. The adrenaline that had gotten her through the day had drained away completely, leaving behind only fatigue and a dull, aching anger.

“…so this is the final version,” Pfanee was saying from the other end of the line. “You post it now, and there’s no backing out.”

Galinda didn’t blink. She was staring at the screen in front of her, where the final version of her statement was queued up and ready to go. The words were hers, carefully shaped and reshaped over the course of the day, cut to be as honest as she dared, but still precise enough to stand up under legal scrutiny.

“I know what this means,” she said quietly. “I’ve known all day. I just… I didn’t know if I had it in me.”

Pfanee was silent for a beat. “And now?”

Galinda didn’t answer right away. Her eyes remained locked on the screen. She had gone through every possible consequence. The fear, the backlash, the headlines.

“I’m sure,” she said, her voice low but steady. “I don’t care anymore, Pfanee. I really don’t. They’ve hurt enough people. I let them. I’m done.”

There was a pause on the line. Then a sigh.

“Well then,” Pfanee said, and she could hear the shrug in his tone. “Let’s burn it all down, baby.”

Her lip twitched in the ghost of a smile. She looked down at her phone, hovered her finger over the “post” button…and pressed it.

It was done.

She leaned back into the couch, her whole body sagging under the weight of the moment, and listened to the silence as the post went live.

Galinda stood at her hotel room window and stared out at the sky. She had hardly slept at all, distracted by a phone that hadn’t gone silent all night. It had buzzed incessantly with text messages, phone calls, and notifications.

The only messages that mattered to her were from Fiyero. His last, just after 3am, read: No change. Nessa is with her. I’ll let you know the moment something happens. That hope anchored Galinda and kept her from being suffocated by the complete chaos.

She had tried,  just after dawn, to venture outside for a walk, to clear her mind and ease her nervous energy. She made it as far as the hotel’s lobby before turning back. The moment the elevator doors opened, a wall of journalists rose, camera flashes ignited, and a dozen voices called her name. Galinda turned on her heels and pressed the “12” button, letting the lift carry her back up.

Safe in her room, she drew a shaky breath. The mattress was rumpled from a restless night, and the were pillows tossed aside. She caught herself in the mirror and saw how exhausted she looked. Her eyes were puffy, her hair was disheveled, and she had a nervous tremble in her hands.

She turned back toward the window, phone in hand, reluctantly unlocking it to see what the world was saying.

BREAKING: Galinda Upland Exits Wicked Intentions, Cites ‘Manipulation and Exploitation’

Then another headline appeared, which had her rolling her eyes.

Morrible and Oscar Diggs Release Statement Denying Galinda’s Accusations; Raise Defamation Concerns

The article quoted their joint release: “We are dismayed by Galinda Upland’s false and unfounded attacks. We have gone out of our way to accommodate her and her unrealistic demands. We are currently in the process of building a legal case for defamation.”

Hazy Days Productions, meanwhile, kept their silence, stating: “We will not be making a comment at this time while our internal investigations are ongoing.”

None of this surprised Galinda. This was exactly what she had expected, but it made her stomach knot all the same.

She forced herself to continue looking at headlines.

Milla Statement Confirms Galinda’s Accusations: “I Stand With Her”

That one made her freeze. Milla’s own statement, posted just an hour ago.

“I wish to confirm that everything Galinda said in her statement is true. Everything.

I was scared, and I went along with something that I knew was wrong. I should have refused all of their plans. I didn’t because I was a coward. 

Galinda showed me more kindness in her statement than I deserve. I wholeheartedly apologise to her. I abused our friendship and cannot apologise enough for any hurt I’ve caused. I’ve also stepped away from the film. It’s the least I can do.”

Galinda opened her texts and saw that she had received a message from Milla at around the time the statement had been posted.

Milla:  Thank you for the understanding in your statement. I don't deserve it. I’m so sorry. You are really brave.

Galinda stared at the message for a long time. Her fingers hovered over the screen.

Galinda:  I did it because I know you were placed in a difficult position.

The response came faster than expected.

Milla: I was, but I’m still so glad you understand.

Galinda read the message twice, then sat upright. The exhaustion, the weight, the emotion, all of it gave way to her anger.

She typed again.

Galinda: Don’t mistake my understanding with forgiveness. You were put in a difficult position, b ut you had a choice. And you chose to play me.

You could’ve told me the truth. You could’ve warned me what they were doing.

Instead, you let me believe you were on my side. You watched what that picture did to me and Elphaba. You comforted me. And all the while, you were lying.

And then you did that interview.

She didn’t give Milla a chance to respond, as she typed out her next message.

Galinda: You were complicit. In everything.

Stay away from me from now on. I don’t want to hear from you again.

You used me, and you helped them to hurt me.

I no longer wish to have anything to do with you.

And if you ever do anything to hurt Elphaba again, I will come after you too.

She hit send and threw her phone down onto the bed, ready to shut the world out some more.

There was light. Soft and grey, but even that sliver of brightness hurt. It pierced behind her eyes and made her skull feel full, like it would split open if she moved wrong.

She flinched without meaning to, and that’s when she noticed the pain. A sharp, slicing ache in her chest. Something wrapped tight around her shoulder, something foreign holding her arm still. Her head throbbed like it had been in a boxing match.

She tried to shift, just a little, and a gasp escaped her throat.

“Elphaba?”

A familiar, worried voice.

“Ness…?” Her own voice felt distant and raw, like she hadn’t used it in years.

Nessa appeared at the side of the bed, blurry at first, then slowly coming into focus. Her eyes were rimmed red. She had clearly been crying.

“Oh my God,” Nessa whispered, and leaned over to stroke Elphaba’s hair. “You’re awake. You’re really awake.”

“What…” Elphaba winced as she tried to lift her arm. The sling tugged. “What happened?”

Nessa’s breath hitched. “You’re in the hospital. They had to induce a coma because of swelling on your brain. You were hit by a cab.”

Elphaba blinked, trying to piece the words together. “A…cab?”

Her ribs burned with every breath, her arm was immobile, and her brain felt heavy.

“I don’t remember,” she whispered.

“That’s okay,” Nessa said quickly. “That’s normal. The doctors said some confusion might happen when you woke up.”

Elphaba let out a shaky breath. She felt like she’d been shoved into a body that wasn’t quite hers. Like someone had been living inside her skin while she was gone.

She tried again to remember. Something about…drinking. Being upset. Something that had exploded in her chest and made her reckless. But the image faded before she could grab hold of it.

“Where…was I?” she asked. “When it happened?”

“You were in the city,” Nessa said eventually. “That’s all you need to worry about right now. You’re safe.”

Elphaba narrowed her eyes, but the ache in her skull flared and she gave up.

Her hand shifted slightly under the blanket. Nessa grabbed hold of it and gave it a squeeze.

“You’ve been out for a long time,” Boq said. She finally noticed that he was stood just behind her sister. “But your vitals are good. They were just waiting for you to wake up.”

Elphaba swallowed hard. “How bad…is it?”

Nessa’s expression softened. “You’ve been lucky.”

She gave a bitter little smile. “Lucky,” she echoed.

Boq gave a small laugh, one that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “You scared the hell out of everyone.”

“I didn’t mean to,” she said, her voice barely a breath.

“We know.” Nessa reached out to tuck a piece of hair behind Elphaba’s ear. “All that matters now is that you’re going to be okay.”

Boq gave a nod toward the hallway. “I’m going to go tell the doctors she’s awake.”

Nessa nodded and gave his arm a gentle squeeze as he left the room.

The silence that followed was heavy, but not uncomfortable. Nessa brushed her fingers across Elphaba’s knuckles.

“Do you remember anything? Even little bits?”

Elphaba shook her head slowly. “Just flashes. Emotions. I was…angry. And drinking.”

“That sounds right,” Nessa said carefully.

Elphaba stared up at the ceiling. “I don’t want to be that person.”

“You’re not,” Nessa said firmly. “You had a bad moment. You were hurting. That doesn’t define you.”

Before Elphaba could respond, there was a soft knock at the door. It opened slowly, and Fiyero stepped in.

His hair was messy, like he hadn’t bothered with it. His shirt was slightly wrinkled, and there were dark shadows beneath his eyes. But his expression, when he saw her, was filled with relief.

“Elphaba.”

Her chest clenched. She hadn’t realised until that moment how much she’d been waiting for his voice.

He crossed the room in a few long strides. Nessa gently excused herself, brushing her hand along Elphaba’s arm as she left.

Fiyero sat beside her, his hand reaching without hesitation for hers.

“You’re awake,” he said, the tension in his voice breaking.

“I guess so,” she whispered.

For a long moment, neither of them spoke. Then she asked, “Was it bad?”

He swallowed. “Yeah. It was bad.”

She let her eyes fall closed, guilt sitting in her throat. “I don’t even remember the accident. Just that I was upset. I said things I didn’t mean.”

“You were hurting,” he said gently. “But Elphaba…you can’t keep burying everything under alcohol. It’s not helping you anymore. It’s hurting you.”

She blinked hard, trying to keep her emotions in check. “I feel like everything’s falling apart.”

“It’s not,” Fiyero said. “You’re still here. That’s not nothing.”

He leaned back in the chair, eyes never leaving hers. “You don’t need to say anything else right now. Just rest. You’re okay.”

Elphaba shifted slightly, her ribs flaring with pain, and bit down a soft gasp. Fiyero noticed and straightened, brows knitting.

“You okay?”

She didn’t get a chance to answer. The door creaked open, and a doctor stepped in, clipboard in hand, a calm but alert expression on his face. His ID badge read Dr. Thomas.

“Good to see you awake,” he said warmly, stepping to the side of the bed.

She nodded slowly.

“I’m Dr. Thomas. I’ve been overseeing your care since you were admitted. You’ve been here for three days.” He gave a sympathetic smile. “How are you feeling?”

She blinked at him, the pain radiating in pulses from her shoulder, down her ribs and spine. “Like I got hit by a truck.”

“Well…it was a cab,” he said gently. “But not far off.”

Fiyero gave a short, humourless laugh. Elphaba didn’t.

“I can get you something for the pain,” Dr. Thomas said, already jotting a note on the chart. “Would you like that?”

“Please,” she whispered.

“Good. We’ll start with something mild and adjust if needed. You’re already on anti-inflammatories and a sedative that helped with the swelling in your brain.” He looked up at her carefully. “Can I ask…do you remember what happened?”

She hesitated. “Not all of it.”

“Do you know where you are?”

“Hospital,” she said slowly, eyes flicking toward the machines. “You said…three days?”

He nodded. “You were in an induced coma. Swelling on the brain from the accident, a broken clavicle, some fractured ribs. You’re lucky it wasn’t worse.”

Her eyes dropped to the sling again. It made more sense now.

Dr. Thomas offered a professional, reassuring tone. “Memory loss is common with trauma like this, especially surrounding the incident. It may come back in pieces. If anything feels fuzzy or overwhelming, let the nurses or me know.”

“Okay,” she murmured.

“I’ll get that medication sorted,” he said, giving her a nod. “You’re doing well. Rest is the best thing you can do right now.”

As he left, Elphaba exhaled slowly and turned back toward Fiyero.

“I didn’t remember at first,” she said quietly. “But it’s coming back now. You found me at the bar.”

He nodded.

“I was drunk. I yelled at you.”

“You were upset.”

“I pushed you.”

“Yeah.”

She grimaced, whether from pain or shame wasn’t clear. “I don’t remember getting hit.”

Fiyero’s voice was low. “You were just…emotional. You lost your balance when you pushed me, and then the cab came out of nowhere.”

She blinked. “You saw it?”

“I tried to grab you just before it hit. Not fast enough, obviously, but…it could’ve been worse.”

She closed her eyes again. “I could’ve died.”

“You didn’t.”

Her hand twitched slightly in his.

“I don’t want to keep doing this,” she said finally. “Lashing out, drinking, pushing people away.”

“Then don’t,” he said again, steady. “You don’t have to. You’re not alone, Elphaba.”

“I felt alone.”

“I know.”

She looked at him. “I bet Avaric’s having the time of his life.”

Fiyero scoffed. “Don’t waste your breath. That piece of shit doesn’t deserve it.”

Something about the way he said it relaxed her.

“You’re here,” she said softly.

He met her eyes. “Of course I am.”

“Thanks for always being here.”

She let her eyes close, succumbing to the exhaustion.

The next two days passed in a blur of sleep, painkillers, and visits.

Nessa and Boq came in every morning. She would brush Elphaba’s hair back and tell her what she missed. And Fiyero was there more than anyone. She had noticed that he always looked relieved and slightly guilty.

Elphaba didn’t talk much. Mostly, she listened, and when they left, she slept. The physical pain was manageable. It was dull and persistent, always humming behind her ribs or throbbing in her shoulder, and when it got too much, she would take something. But the shame…that hurt in a different way.

She remembered everything now. The bar. The drinking. The yelling. The pushing. It was embarrassing. Humiliating. Now she was here, broken and stuck in a hospital bed with nothing but time to think about what a mess she’d made.

She had just started drifting again, that hazy space between dozing and waking, when the door creaked open. She expected another visit from Nessa or Fiyero, but instead it was the day nurse, the one who’d been taking care of her since she woke up. Marley. Elphaba liked her. She was cheerful but not annoying, kind without being coddling, and had a bluntness Elphaba appreciated.

“Morning, sleeping beauty,” Marley said, walking in with her usual clipboard and a tray of meds. “How are we doing today?”

Elphaba gave a faint, croaky, “Still here.”

Marley grinned. “Good answer. Time for your next round of pain relief. Want them?”

“I’d marry them.”

Marley laughed and began checking her IV line. “You’re still on the mild stuff for now, but if that changes, just holler. We don’t do martyrdom in this ward.”

Elphaba managed a small smile.

Marley moved around the bed, then paused, glancing toward the little table by the window. “Do you want me to move these?” she asked. “Make room for the new ones coming in today.”

Elphaba turned her head. There was a cluster of flower arrangements; four, maybe five. She’d barely looked at them.

“Actually,” she said slowly, “I’ve been meaning to ask…who are those from?”

Marley raised a brow, amused. “Who do you think?”

Elphaba blinked. “I…I don’t know.”

The nurse grinned and gave her a playful look. “From your gorgeous girlfriend, of course.”

Elphaba stared. “My…girlfriend?”

“Galinda has got great taste in flowers, I’ll give her that.” Marley gestured at the arrangement. “Classy, and expensive. You’re a lucky girl.”

Elphaba’s heart gave a strange lurch in her chest. “Wait…Galinda?”

Marley looked at her, like it was obvious. “Who else would it be?”

Elphaba’s mouth opened, then closed again.

Galinda. Galinda had sent them?

But that didn’t make any sense. They weren’t “dating”. Hadn’t been for months.

And she’d been furious. That’s what had started the whole thing. Her anger, her heartbreak, her stupid decision to drink, to spiral, to push Fiyero away.

She stared at the flowers like they might offer some explanation. But they just sat there, beautiful and silent.

Her throat tightened. Galinda had sent them. No one had mentioned her. Not Fiyero. Not Nessa. Not Boq.

So why…?

She didn’t finish the thought. She was too tired to try. She let her head fall back against the pillow and closed her eyes again.

A while later, Elphaba found herself staring at the flowers again, when the door creaked open.

She expected the nurse again, maybe with her lunch or another check of her vitals, but instead it was Fiyero. He gave her a small smile as he stepped in, one hand behind his neck, the other holding a bottle of something he must’ve grabbed from the vending machine.

“Hey,” he said gently, “how’re you doing?”

She nodded once, lips pressed into a tight line. “Okay….the nurse dosed me up. I think my clavicle’s decided it hates me personally.”

He gave a sympathetic wince and sat in the chair beside her. “Well, at least you’re coherent enough to complain. That’s progress.”

She offered a half-smile, but her eyes drifted back to the flowers. Her mind was too full now with all those unanswered questions tumbling around.

Fiyero must’ve noticed the shift, because he leaned forward and studied her face. “Okay,” he said quietly. “What’s going on? I know that look.”

She hesitated.

“I just…” She drew a breath. “I need you to be honest with me.”

His brow furrowed. “Of course.”

She nodded toward the flowers. “Who are they from?”

He froze for a fraction of a second. Not long, but long enough. And Elphaba knew. Her heart beat a little faster.

“Galinda,” he said finally.

She stared. “So…Galinda’s been sending flowers to the hospital?”

He looked at her, like he was questioning himself on what his answer should be.

“No,” he said.

“No?” Elphaba repeated slowly. “What do you mean, no?”

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. “She hasn’t been sending them.”

“Okay, then who?”

“She’s been bringing them,” he said gently. “Herself.”

The words didn’t make sense at first. Elphaba blinked at him.

“She’s been here?” Her voice came out quiet.

Fiyero nodded. “She was here the night you were brought in. She’s been here every day since….and she’s here now.”

The shock hit her like a wave. Her throat went dry. “She’s…here now?”

He looked sheepish. “Yeah. She’s actually just outside. Well, not right outside, but…she’s in the building.”

Elphaba’s stomach twisted. “If she’s been here,” she said slowly, “why hasn’t she come to see me?”

Fiyero looked down, fidgeting with the cap of the drink he hadn’t opened. “She has,” he said.

Elphaba stared at him. “What?”

“She has come to see you…but only when you’ve been asleep.”

She gaped. “What? Why?”

“She didn’t want to stress you out,” he said gently. “You were so angry about her before…and the doctors were clear that you needed calm. She didn’t want to make things worse.”

Elphaba sat back, absorbing that. She was too tired to untangle all the emotions coiling around her.

“I don’t really know why she’s here,” she said. “We haven’t exactly been friends lately.”

Fiyero looked at her for a long moment, then sat forward, resting his elbows on his knees.

“I wasn’t going to bring this up until you were a lot stronger,” he said. “But…a lot’s happened in the last few days.”

Elphaba frowned. “What’s happened?”

He reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone. “You should see this.”

He passed it to her, and swiped open to a webpage.

Elphaba held it with her good hand, scrolling slowly. The statement from Galinda stared up at her, every word clearer than the next. By the time she reached the end, her chest was tight, her eyes wide.

She looked up at him. “This whole time…they were setting her up?”

Fiyero nodded grimly.

“I’m such an idiot,” she whispered. Her voice shook with a mix of anger and shame. “All that time I thought she was using me, laughing at me, and she was being blackmailed. She was being played.”

“Yeah,” he said. “They really screwed her over.”

Elphaba rubbed her forehead, overwhelmed.

“She’s a great girl, Elphaba,” Fiyero said softly. “She really cares about you.”

Elphaba gave a skeptical look, but he continued.

“Remember that girl? The one you tried to sleep with and couldn’t?”

Her cheeks flushed. “Unfortunately.”

“She tried to sell a story about you…she was saying something happened…something non-consensual,” Fiyero said. “Galinda found out and she paid her off. She got her to sign an NDA. This was after you stopped talking to her. She didn’t tell anyone. I didn’t even know about it until a few days ago.”

Elphaba sat in stunned silence. Her mouth opened, but no words came.

“Yeah,” he said, watching her. “She did that for you. Protected you…and you didn’t even know.”

Elphaba’s eyes were glassy, not from the painkillers this time. Finally, she exhaled shakily and said, “You should go.”

Fiyero nodded, not offended. “Yeah. You probably need some time.”

She gave him a small, knowing look. “I think I need to sleep.”

He raised an eyebrow. The corner of his mouth twitched.

Elphaba closed her eyes and let her head rest on the pillow.

Fiyero smiled.

“Yeah,” he said. “You definitely should sleep.”

And then he left her there, alone with her thoughts, and a sudden aching in her chest that had nothing to do with broken ribs.

Elphaba lay perfectly still in the hospital bed, eyes closed, heart hammering.

If Galinda only came in when she was asleep, then fine. She’d give the performance of her life. The best bit of acting Galinda Upland had ever witnessed.

She focused on breathing slow and even, and she stayed still. Perfectly still.

It wasn’t long before the door opened with a quiet creak, followed by the sound of soft, careful footsteps. Galinda. Elphaba didn’t need to open her eyes to know it.

There was a rustling, and then a faint clink of glass. She was doing something with the flowers. Probably bringing in new ones, going by what Marley said.

Elphaba tried to focus on the sound of it, tried to let it soothe her, but her heart was pounding so hard it felt like it might shake the bed. Surely Galinda could hear it.

The rustling stopped. Silence settled over the room again. Then she heard it, the whisper of fabric against vinyl as Galinda sat down in the chair beside her.

Elphaba braced herself for the usual silence. Maybe a sniffle, a deep sigh, the kind of things people let out when they think no one’s watching.

But then she felt it. A warm hand, gently sliding into hers. Galinda’s fingers wrapped around her own and Elphaba almost flinched.

It had been so long since she had held Galinda’s hand.

She focused on keeping her muscles relaxed, on staying in character, on not reacting, but the feeling of their joined hands sent a relief through her.

She stayed like that for several minutes, or maybe it was only seconds, but it felt like a lifetime, just letting Galinda hold her hand and pretending to be asleep so she didn’t lose it.

Eventually, the ache in her chest grew too heavy to ignore. She had questions. She needed answers. She needed to look at her.

So she opened her eyes.

Galinda was staring down at their hands, her thumb absentmindedly tracing the back of Elphaba’s fingers. She looked completely lost in thought, somewhere far away.

Elphaba squeezed her hand.

Galinda jolted like she’d been shocked.

She looked up, startled, breath catching in her throat, and her wide eyes locked with Elphaba’s. 

“You’re…” she gasped, blinking fast and releasing her hand, “you’re awake! I didn’t…I mean…I thought you were…I was just…”

Elphaba gave her a tired, lopsided smile. 

Galinda looked like she might burst into tears. 

“We should talk,” she said softly.

Galinda nodded, lips pressed together. “Yeah,” she whispered. “We should.”

Galinda sat alone in the corridor, just outside the hospital room. It was quiet in this part of the ward. She had memorised this hallway, every crack in the flooring, every scuff mark along the wall. She could hear the faint sound of Fiyero talking to Elphaba inside of the room. Her heart clenched at the sound. She wished she could hear her voice herself, but she couldn’t because she only visited when Elphaba was asleep.

It was cowardly, maybe. But she told herself it was kindness. The doctors had said Elphaba needed rest, peace, and calm surroundings. Galinda didn’t want to be the one to make a scene, not when she knew she might be the last person Elphaba wanted to see.

So she came with her flowers, fresh ones, every day. She changed the water herself when the nurses forgot. She arranged the stems with trembling fingers. She sat in that same chair, silently holding a hand that never held back, and each time she left, it felt heavier in her chest.

She hated seeing Elphaba like this. The bandages, the bruises, the sling. 

Galinda bit her lip and looked down at the fresh bouquet in her arms. Elphaba didn’t like receiving flowers, but it was all Galinda could do, offering something living, something beautiful, when everything else felt broken.

She wished things could be different. Not just the accident. All of it. The weeks that had torn them apart, the silence that had grown between them.

The hospital door opened, and she startled, heart stuttering. Fiyero stepped out quietly. His eyes softened when he saw her.

“She just fell asleep,” he said, voice low. “You can go in now.”

Galinda nodded, clutching the flowers tighter. “Thank you.”

He gave her a small, knowing look but said nothing else as he turned and walked down the hall.

She waited until his footsteps disappeared before she pushed the door open.

Machines hummed softly, blinking in time with Elphaba’s pulse. Galinda moved carefully, quietly, worried that she might wake her.

Elphaba lay still in the bed, her face turned slightly toward the window. Her skin was pale, but the bruises were fading around her eyes. Still, the sight of her like this, hooked up to wires and immobilised, made something twist deep in Galinda’s chest.

She moved toward the table by the window and set the flowers down beside the others. Gently, she reached out and took out the flowers that were starting to wilt. She replaced them with the new ones and moved them around until she was happy with how they looked. It was one of the only things that made her feel useful now.

She crossed to the chair beside the bed and sat down. For a moment, she just watched Elphaba breathe. Then, hesitantly, she reached out and took her hand. She half-expected Elphaba to flinch, but she didn’t.

Galinda stared down at their joined hands. Her throat tightened. She rubbed the back of Elphaba’s hand with her thumb and watched the movements. She didn’t expect anything to be different this time.

But then she felt it. A squeeze.

Galinda’s breath caught.

Her eyes flew up, just in time to see Elphaba’s already open and watching her.

She pulled her hand away.

“You’re…” she gasped, blinking fast, “you’re awake! I didn’t…I mean…I thought you were…I was just…”

Elphaba gave her a tired, lopsided smile. 

Galinda looked like she might burst into tears. 

“We should talk,” Elphaba said softly.

She nodded, lips pressed together. “Yeah,” she whispered. “We should.”

For a moment, neither of them spoke. They just looked at each other, both taking the time to think of what they wanted to say.

“I’m sorry,” they both said.

Elphaba let out a quiet, breathless sound. She blinked at Galinda. “Wait…why are you saying sorry?”

Galinda’s shifted, shrinking and then straightening again as if she couldn’t quite settle.

“Because I’m here,” she said. “And I know I’m probably not exactly your favourite person right now. Or…maybe ever. But I just…” she paused, swallowing. “I needed to know you were okay.”

Elphaba stared at her. Her throat worked. Her eyes dropped, then lifted again. She opened her mouth, stopped, then tried again.

“You don’t have anything to apologise for,” she said, her voice hoarse and quiet. “I’m…glad you’re here.”

Galinda blinked, not quite trusting she heard right.

Elphaba’s jaw tightened. “I’m the one who should apologise,” she said, steadier now. “For how I left things. For what I said. For walking away and pretending like it didn’t matter.”

She hesitated, then looked Galinda right in the eyes. “It did matter. You mattered. And I’m sorry I made you feel like you didn’t.”

Elphaba drew in a breath, held it for a moment, and let it go.

“I was hurt,” she said quietly. “And angry, yes, but more than that…I felt like I was being used. Again.”

She glanced at Galinda, then looked down at her own hands, like she wasn’t sure she deserved to meet her eyes.

“All my life, people have wanted something from me…but not me. Never me. And for a moment, I thought maybe you were different.”

Her voice wavered slightly.

“And then I saw the article and I thought… god, I thought I’d been used again.”

Galinda’s lips parted, but Elphaba held up a hand, not harshly, just asking for a second more.

“But I didn’t give you the chance to explain. I shut you out because I was scared. I told myself that you’d made your choice, but I know now I didn’t even let you speak…and that’s on me.”

She looked up then. Right into Galinda’s eyes.

“I saw your statement. And I’m so sorry. I let them turn me against the one person who ever really…” Her voice cracked. “The one person who...I played right into their hands.”

Galinda swallowed hard. “Everything I said in that statement was true,” she said quietly, but with conviction. “Every single word.”

She shook her head, her voice tightening. “Nothing happened with Milla. Nothing ever would’ve. I couldn’t believe she…I still can’t believe she did that to me.”

There was a flicker of pain in her eyes.

“I kept thinking, if you’d just listened to me, you would’ve known. You would’ve known it wasn’t true. But I also get it,” she added quickly.

Galinda’s voice drifted, and for a second she looked like she might fold in on herself.

“I shouldn’t have let you shut me out. You’re…” She stopped herself, breathing in sharply. You’re…” She stopped, like the words were caught in her throat. But she said them anyway. “You’re the only real thing I had.”

It had been a week since Elphaba was discharged from the hospital.

She was healing, slowly. The sling was still necessary, and the pain hadn’t vanished entirely, but the worst of it was behind her now. When the doctors released her, Galinda had been there, hand resting gently on Elphaba’s uninjured arm. She’d kissed her cheek and promised, “I’ll be back in one week and we’ll go on our date, just like we said. But you need time and I have things I need to do.”

So Elphaba had nodded, understanding even if she didn’t love it. Galinda had to return to L.A. and keep her own promise to meet with Pfannee and the studio executives conducting their internal investigation. The meetings had been long, formal, and emotionally draining. Galinda’s version of events were scrutinised from every angle, but she hadn’t backed down, and she’d told the truth. As soon as they were done she’d flown straight back.

Tonight was the first time they’d seen each other in a week.

The doorbell rang just after 7.

Galinda, standing in front of the mirror in the room she’d been staying in, froze with her fingers at the clasp of her necklace. Her breath hitched slightly in her chest. She wasn’t sure if it was the nerves or the anticipation. Maybe both.

She glanced down at herself again. The dress clung to her body in all the right places, fitted black and a dramatic plunge down the front that skimmed her sternum.

The bell rang again and Galinda gathered her breath, steadied her hands, and walked to the door.

When she opened it, she forgot how to breathe.

Elphaba was standing there, her posture still a little stiff from the pain in her shoulder. She was in a fitted suit with her arm held in a black sling. Even injured, she looked good.

In her good hand, she held a bouquet, which contained blush roses, eucalyptus, and gypsophila.

Her eyes met Galinda’s and she froze.

“Wow,” Elphaba said, barely louder than a breath. Then, catching herself, she blinked hard and cleared her throat. “I mean…you look…”

She laughed under her breath, eyes scanning her slowly from head to toe and then back again. “You look incredible.”

Galinda flushed, lips parting slightly as she leaned against the doorframe, one hand toying with her earring. “Thank you,” she said softly. “You clean up okay yourself.”

Elphaba gave a crooked grin. “Was hoping to do better than okay.”

She held out the flowers, her expression shy underneath the smirk. “I know you’re usually the one with the bouquets these days, but I thought I’d return the favour.”

Galinda reached out and took them carefully. “They’re beautiful.”

“You’re beautiful.”

Galinda’s eyes lifted from the bouquet to Elphaba’s face, and for a moment, the air between them stilled. Neither spoke. The words seemed to echo around them. 

Then Galinda blinked, a quick smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. “I missed you,” she said quietly.

Elphaba’s breath caught, and her expression softened. “Yeah,” she murmured. “Me too.”

Galinda smiled again, warmer this time. “I’ll just…go put these in water,” she said, her voice a little breathless. “Then I’ll be ready to go.”

She turned and disappeared back into the house.

Elphaba exhaled slowly, staring at the spot where she’d just stood. She shifted her weight, adjusted her sling, and muttered under her breath, “Smooth.”

Galinda returned a minute later, her clutch in hand, and smiled like nothing strange had happened. Her hand brushed Elphaba’s arm as she passed, and they walked down the steps together toward the car that was waiting.

Elphaba opened the rear door and gestured for her to get in. Galinda slid across the seat, smoothing her dress as Elphaba followed and shut the door behind them.

As the car pulled away, Galinda glanced sideways. “So…are you going to tell me where we’re going?”

Elphaba just looked ahead, a small, secret smile playing at her lips.

“Nope.”

They stepped out into the open air of The Edge together, the city sprawling beneath them. A soft breeze caught Glinda’s curls as she looked up, blinking at the sight. The entire deck was empty, save for the two of them. Soft ambient lighting ringed the glass walls, and a table was set, lit by flickering candles. Somewhere, low atmospheric music played.

Galinda turned in place. “You rented the whole thing?” she asked, only half-whispering. “Elphie…”

Elphaba gave a one-shouldered shrug, hands tucked in the pockets of her coat. “It seemed easier than dealing with people staring.”

“You hate places like this.”

“I do.”

Galinda faced her fully now, her expression searching. “Then why?”

Elphaba didn’t answer right away. Her gaze moved over the skyline until she looked back at Galinda.

“Because everything we’ve done,” she said quietly, “it’s all been for other people. Tonight…” She took a breath. “I wanted something that was just for us.”

Galinda’s smile was small and appreciative.

She stepped closer, slipping her arm through Elphaba’s. “This is ridiculous.”

“I know.”

“And beautiful.”

Elphaba didn’t respond, but her fingers curled softly around Galinda’s.

They walked to the edge together, the city quiet around them in a way it never really was. The music shifted into something warmer and slower. Galinda leaned her head against Elphaba’s shoulder and Elphaba closed her eyes.

Elphaba woke to a dull, throbbing ache in her shoulder. Her face twisted as she reached blindly for the water bottle on the nightstand. The painkillers rattled in their bottle as she shook two into her hand and swallowed them down.

She shifted carefully, wincing, and picked up her phone from where it had fallen between the sheets.

Galinda:  Thank you for last night. That was incredible. I’m still smiling, just so you know xx

Elphaba stared at the message for a moment, her lips tugging slowly into a crooked smile. She typed back.

Elphaba: Morning, gorgeous girl. Don’t thank me. I like being the one who puts that smile on your face x

She barely had time to set the phone down before the phone started buzzing with an incoming FaceTime call from Galinda.

Elphaba hesitated only a second before answering. “Hey.”

Galinda’s face filled the screen. Her blonde hair was still mussed from sleep, and she had a mug cradled in her hands.

“Hi,” Galinda said, a lazy grin playing on her lips. “I just…wanted you to see the smile you put on my face this morning.”

Elphaba exhaled a laugh through her nose, trying not to grin too obviously. “Smooth.”

“Thank you, I try,” Galinda replied, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Did you sleep okay?”

Elphaba hesitated, adjusting the pillow behind her. “Not really.”

Galinda’s expression shifted, more concerned now. “Was it the pain?”

“Yes,” Elphaba said, then added with a smirk, “But mostly because I couldn’t stop thinking about this date I had last night with this ridiculously sexy woman.”

Galinda gave a knowing little smirk. “Oh yeah? She must have been something special to have Elphaba Thropp, notorious ladies’ woman, so thoroughly distracted.”

“You have no idea,” Elphaba murmured.

Galinda took a sip of her coffee, then asked, voice teasing, “So…did the date go well?”

Elphaba nodded slowly, her eyes steady on Galinda’s face. “It was the best date I’ve ever been on.”

Then she tilted her head, pretending to consider it. “Although…”

Galinda’s brow lifted. “Although?”

“Well,” Elphaba said, shifting slightly, “my extremely attractive date did invite me to stay the night. And I, very stupidly, didn’t say yes.”

Galinda bit her lip, her smile catching at the corners. “Oh?”

“All I could think about for the rest of the night,” Elphaba said, her voice low now, “was what I wanted to do to her. Honestly? It’s still all I’m thinking about.”

There was a pause as Galinda’s cheeks went a shade pinker. Her lips parted slightly, and she drew in a slow breath.

“I have a feeling your date probably really respected the way you treated her last night,” she said softly. “But if I had to guess…I’d say she’s been thinking about that too.”

Elphaba’s tongue darted out to wet her lips. “Good to know.”

She paused for a moment to just look at Galinda on the screen.

“What are you doing later?” she asked. “Because I’m ordering Thai, and I may not be able to cook right now, but I am able to offer extremely charming company.”

Galinda pretended to consider. “Hmm…Thai food, and Elphaba Thropp, notorious ladies’ woman? Sounds like an offer I’d be stupid to refuse.”

Elphaba laughed. “So stupid.”

They grinned at each other through the screen, and for a moment, neither said anything. 

Then Elphaba grinned. “So…Pad Thai or Drunken Noodles?”

Galinda smiled back. “Both…and spring rolls.”

“You got it.”

“See you tonight?”

“I’ll be there,” Galinda promised. Then, softer, “Don’t overdo it today. Rest.”

“I will,” Elphaba said. “Promise.”

Galinda smiled, that same unmistakable warmth glowing behind her eyes. “See you tonight.”

“See you tonight.”

The call ended and Elphaba let the phone fall gently back onto the mattress beside her and stared at the ceiling for a long, still moment. Then she exhaled, and let her smile settle on her face.

Galinda’s muscles ached in that satisfyingly sore kind of way as she stepped out of the shower, skin pink from hot water and the five mile run through Central Park. She wrapped herself in a towel, trailing wet footprints across the hardwood floor as she moved toward her phone.

It was buzzing on the bed, ringing with Pfanee’s name lit up on the screen.

She groaned.

Answering with a flick of her thumb, she pressed it to her ear. “Pfanee, I just got out of the shower. Please tell me there isn’t a problem.”

“There’s a problem.”

She dropped her head back, dripping water onto the floor. “I swear to god, if it’s about Milla again…”

“It’s not about Milla,” he interrupted. “A photo’s leaked and you’re trending everywhere.”

Her stomach dropped a little. “What photo?”

“I just texted you the link. Check it.”

Her screen blinked with a new message. She opened it and the headline hit her first.

“Galinda Upland’s Mystery Woman: Who’s the Blonde Bombshell Kissing in new photo?”

Her breath caught. The image beneath the text showed her in a dark bar booth, her hand curled behind a woman’s neck, the two of them mid-kiss. She recognised the place and the woman.

“Oh, come on,” she muttered.

The photo was from three years ago. A bar near the set of Firelight. The woman, a makeup artist, had worked on the film. They’d hooked up casually for a few weeks.

“Pfanee, this is from three years ago.”

“I know,” he said flatly. “It’s the one I killed back then.”

“So why now?”

“Because you’re single, Galinda. And single means speculation. I made sure it disappeared, but now someone’s sat on it long enough to make it valuable again.”

She felt beyond frustrated. “I’m not single.”

There was a pause. “You’re not?”

“No. Elphaba and I…we’ve decided to try for real this time.”

Pfanee’s silence was louder than any gasp. “You’re dating Elphaba?”

“She’s not…” Galinda exhaled sharply, shifting her towel. “She’s trying. She’s getting better, and I care about her.”

“Galinda,” Pfanee said gently, like someone tiptoeing toward a landmine, “you and I both know she can’t handle the press. She can’t handle the stories that they create about you. Honey, she’s not made to be with someone in the public eye. She’s too…unpredictable.”

Her grip on the phone tightened.

“She’s really trying, Pfanee,” Galinda snapped.

“And what do you think she’s going to do when she sees this photo?” he said.

Galinda didn’t reply because she knew.

Last time Elphaba had thought Galinda was playing her, playing with her, she’d gotten drunk, and fallen straight into traffic.

Galinda’s heart pounded. “I need to go.”

She hung up without waiting for his reply, scrolling immediately to Elphaba’s contact. She pressed call.

Straight to voicemail.

“Fuck,” she hissed, pacing toward the bedroom. She was already pulling on jeans over damp skin, tugging a sweater over her head with trembling fingers.

She called again.

Voicemail.

She swallowed the knot of fear rising in her throat and hit Fiyero’s name instead.

He answered on the second ring, his voice light. “Morning, G. How’s your…”

“Have you seen Elphaba?”

That got his attention. His tone dropped. “She went home early. She was struggling with the pain. What happened?”

Galinda’s voice cracked, just slightly. “An old photo has appeared online of me kissing someone. It’s from years ago, but it’s all over the internet, and she won’t answer her phone. I’m scared she’s going to freak out.”

There was a brief silence on the other end of the phone. When he spoke again, Fiyero’s voice was steady, but she could hear the tension in his voice that he was trying to disguise. “Okay. I’ll call around the usual places. You’re closer to her apartment, so you head there.”

She was already pulling on sneakers.

“I’ll have a car outside your building in five,” he added. “Don’t wait, just go.”

Galinda grabbed her keys with shaking fingers. She didn’t even bother with makeup. She couldn’t even bring herself to think about what it would mean if she was too late.

Elphaba rolled her shoulders as she stepped into her office, wincing slightly at the tight pull in her muscles. Painkillers were helping, but only barely. Still, she had work to do and no time to sit around feeling sorry for herself. Not when Galinda was being dragged through the mud by the likes of Morrible and Diggs.

She set her bag down on the edge of the desk and reached for the intercom button.

“Rachel?”

Her assistant’s voice came through instantly. “Yes, Ms. Thropp?”

“Tell Legal I want to see them in the Conference room. Now. I don’t care what meetings they’re in.”

Rachel didn’t hesitate. “Understood. I’ll let them know you’re requesting their presence immediately.”

“Not requesting,” Elphaba said coolly. “Demanding.”

“Understood. I’ll make the arrangements and confirm shortly.”

“Thank you.”

She disconnected and leaned back in her chair, exhaling slowly. Her fingers drummed on the surface of her desk for a few seconds before her phone buzzed. A new message was waiting from Galinda.

Galinda: The note was very cute, Elphie, but I’d rather have woken up next to you. I especially liked the part about the things you’d do to me if you didn’t have a meeting. Next time, just wake me up and do them xx

Elphaba: Good morning, darling. I thought about it, but I had to get in to the office x

Galinda: I guess I can forgive you. I know you have important people to boss around. Try not to be too sexy and seductive, Ms CEO xx

A second message came through as soon as the first arrived.

Galinda: But seriously, are you okay? You seemed sore last night. Did you take anything this morning? xx

Elphaba: Yes, the painkillers are kicking in now. Im a bit stiff today, but I’ll manage x

Galinda: I know, but you don’t always have to be the indestructible one, Elphie. I like taking care of you xx

Elphaba: Y ou already take care of me more than you realise x

Galinda: God, you being sweet is such a turn on.  Completely unfair. I’m supposed to be the soft one xx

Elphaba let out a slow exhale and pressed the intercom.

“Thanks, Rachel.” She clicked off and turned her attention back to her phone.

Elphaba: I’ve got to go to my meeting now, so you can go back to being the soft one x

Galinda:  Are you free for lunch after you terrify whoever you are meeting? I assume there will be some light punishment involved…don’t have too much fun without me xx

Elphaba:  I only punish the guilty. So, if you misbehave before 1pm, I might be free around then ;) I’ll message you when I’m done making grown adults cry x

Galinda: Well, I’ll see if I can find a little trouble to get into before 1pm…Love you xx

Elphaba: I love you too. Now behave…or don’t. I’ll deal with it at lunch x

She stood, phone in hand, squared her shoulders, and tried to put her mind into battle mode. Galinda had done so much for her already, and now it was her turn.

Elphaba stepped into the conference room, nodding at the two members of her legal team already seated.

“Ms. Thropp,” Mr Williams greeted with a slight bow of his head. “You wanted to see us?”

“I did,” Elphaba said, sitting at the head of the table. “This is about Galinda Upland. The defamation suit against her.”

Ms. Lewis nodded. We’ve escalated the defamation case internally. All hands on deck. I’ve assigned every available resource to the team.”

“Good…that’s good,” Elphaba said, pleased at that piece of information.

Lewis tapped her tablet. “There is one significant development. We have been in contact with Milla. She’s agreed to cooperate and is willing to testify if needed.”

Elphaba’s brow lifted slightly. “Really?”

Lewis nodded. “Yes. She said that she hates how she hurt Ms Upland and wants the opportunity to rectify her mistake.”

“Well,” Elphaba said dryly, “as much as I dislike her, that will be good for the case.”

She leaned back in her chair, her voice sharpening. “Make sure that she fulfils her agreement, but keep her away from me. I’m not as forgiving as Galinda, and I do not wish to be involved in anymore legal issues.”

Lewis straightened. “Yes, ma’am.  We’ve assigned two of our best litigators to the case.

“Good,” Elphaba said. “If you win this, there will be significant bonuses in it for all of you. Whatever incentive you need.”

The lawyers exchanged a glance, visibly pleased but maintaining their professionalism.

“Understood,” Lewis said. “We’re treating this as a top-tier priority.”

Elphaba leaned forward slightly, her expression hardening. “Have either of you worked with private investigators before?”

Williams blinked. “Yes. Occasionally, depending on the case.”

“I want the name of the best one that you can find,” Elphaba said. “I want to know everything there is to know about Morrible and Diggs. Skeletons, any side dealings, personal connections, parking tickets. Everything.”

“Just to be clear,” Lewis said carefully, “we won’t be able to use that kind of information as evidence, unless it’s…”

Elphaba cut her off. “If something is found, it will be your job to ensure you find a way for it to be used. Do you understand me?”

A moment passed and Williams gave a brisk nod. “Crystal clear, Ms. Thropp.”

“I’m not interested in playing by the rules, when the people who’ve made it their mission to destroy someone I care about have been using dirty and underhanded tricks,” Elphaba said. “I don’t want to be reactionary. I want to be three steps ahead of them at all times.”

Lewis nodded in understanding. “We’ll get to work on the investigator contacts immediately.”

“Have them contact me directly. I don’t want to play phone tag through a third party. I also want an update on where the Studio are with their internal investigation.”

Lewis jotted something quickly into her tablet. “We’ll arrange that today.”

“Good.”

A brief silence fell over the room.

“What’s your coffee order?” Elphaba asked, seemingly out of nowhere.

Williams blinked. “Excuse me?”

“Your coffee order,” Elphaba repeated. “You’re going to need one. Because you’re about to take me through every single file we have on this case. Every page.”

Williams nodded, “Of course.”

“I want details,” Elphaba said, crossing to the other side of the table. “Every threat, every contact, every witness, every line of testimony. If they are going after the person I love, I’m going to understand this better than anyone.”

She folded her arms.

“David…we’ve always had a good working relationship, but if anything is missed that could damage Galinda in that courtroom…or anywhere else, for that matter…you’ll be explaining it to me. Alone.”

The silence that followed was heavy with understanding.

“You’ll know everything, Ms. Thropp.”

“Good,” Elphaba said again. “Because I don’t lose, and neither does she.”

Without hesitation, Elphaba rounded the table and took the seat beside her. Her jaw was set and her eyes focused. Whatever it took, however long it took, she would see this through. For Galinda.

It was almost time to meet for lunch as Galinda stepped inside a local coffee shop. She took off her sunglasses, and made her way to the counter. 

Behind the counter stood a young barista, with her dark hair pulled into a loose ponytail and a bored expression on her face, until she looked up. Her eyes widened and mouth fell open.

Galinda smiled politely. “Hi! Can I get a medium oat milk latte, please?”

The barista stared at her. “Oh my god.”

Galinda’s smile turned amused.

“You’re…You’re Galinda Upland,” the girl breathed, her voice trembling slightly. “I can’t believe you’re actually here. Oh my god. I love you so much. I’m your biggest fan.”

Galinda laughed, her voice light. “You’re so sweet. What’s your name?”

“Emily,” the girl said, cheeks turning red.

“Hi Emily. It’s lovely to meet you. How old are you?”

“I just turned eighteen last week.”

“Eighteen? Wow, such an exciting time.” Galinda leaned on the counter, genuinely interested. “Are you in school?”

“I start college this fall,” Emily said, her nerves slowly giving way to excitement. “Pre-med. I’m gonna be a doctor.”

Galinda’s eyes lit up with admiration. “That’s amazing, Emily. Truly. That’s far more important than anything I’ve ever done.”

Emily’s face scrunched in disbelief. “What? No…what? You’re Galinda. You’ve made me laugh and cry and…you literally changed my life.”

Galinda’s expression softened. “And one day, you’re going to change someone else’s. You’re going to help people in ways I never could. Don’t ever forget that. Okay?”

The girl nodded, clearly overwhelmed.

“Thank you, so much. I’ll just get your drink for you.”

Galinda smiled and checked her phone as she waited. She saw she had a message from her agent, Cam, asking her to call.

“Here’s your coffee, Galinda. Have a great day.”

Galinda reached into her purse, pulled out a $100 bill, and slid it across the counter.

Emily looked down at it like it might burst into flames. “I…I can’t take that.”

“You absolutely can,” Galinda said gently. “Consider it a tip for the future. You’re going to do great things.”

Emily covered her mouth, her eyes glassy. “Thank you. Seriously, thank you.”

She hesitated. “Would you…would it be okay if I got a picture with you? I totally understand if not…”

Galinda grinned. “Of course.”

Emily hurried around the counter, still in awe, and passed Galinda her phone to take a selfie.

“Thank you so much,” Emily said breathlessly.

“Go be amazing,” Galinda replied with a wink. She gave Emily one last smile before pushing through the door and pressing dial on her phone. 

“Hey, Cam,” she said, a warmth in her voice. “How are you? And how’s Joe? Is he still obsessed with his new pasta maker?”

Cam laughed on the other end. “He’s driving me insane with it. Every night is pasta night now. But hey, he’s happy.”

“I love that. So, what did you want to talk about?”

“I’ve got an offer you need to hear,” Cam said.

Galinda stopped walking.

“What kind of offer?”

“A good one. Huge, actually. Last year, you were wanted for the lead in a movie, but I never mentioned it to you because it clashed with filming for Wicked Intentions.”

Galinda’s face dropped in confusion. “Okay?”

“Well, the lead actress just checked into rehab. Filming starts in three weeks and they are desperate to have you as their lead, now that you are no longer busy.”

Galinda blinked. “Wait…seriously?”

“Dead serious. It’s based on that best-selling book, ‘A Key, a Note’. Ring a bell?”

“Oh my god…yes,” Galinda said, eyes widening. “That one about the woman whose husband turns out to be a serial killer?”

“That’s the one,” Cam said. “She’s a wife, mother, teacher…completely ordinary life. Then her husband’s arrested, and everything unravels. She loses her job, gets hounded by the press, has to move…and eventually she rebuilds herself and becomes a motivational speaker.”

Galinda was silent for a moment, processing.

“It’s a phenomenal arc,” Cam continued. “Heavy, but inspiring. There was awards buzz as soon as the rights were bought.”

“That’s…crazy,” Galinda said slowly. “But it sounds incredible.”

“I’m sending you an extract of the script. They need an answer by this evening, Galinda. Filming is in Vancouver and they are scheduled for two months. Time is tight, so if you agree, you would need to fly out tomorrow.”

Galinda exhaled, the coffee cup warm in her hand.

“Wow,” she said softly. “Okay. Send me the script. I’ll read it and let you know my answer as soon as I’ve decided.”

“Will do,” Cam said. “This is going to be a huge film, so really think about it.”

“I know,” she said. “Thanks, Cam.”

They hung up, and Galinda stood for a moment on the sidewalk, the coffee in her hand suddenly forgotten.

It was an amazing opportunity, but two months was a long time when your heart was finally starting to feel like it was home.

Galinda took a sip of her coffee and started the walk toward Elphaba’s office. She had a lot to think about and for the first time ever, she had someone else to consider.

Elphaba stepped out of the building, her eyes scanned the sidewalk automatically, searching until she saw her.

Galinda was leaning against a streetlamp just outside the lobby doors, radiant as always in a cream sundress and sunglasses, a warm smile tugging at her lips the moment she spotted Elphaba. She pushed off the post and strode toward her.

“Hey, you,” Galinda said softly, sliding her arms around Elphaba’s neck and pressing a kiss to her lips without hesitation.

Elphaba’s hand moved instinctively to Galinda’s waist, fingers curling possessively into the fabric of her dress as she returned the kiss. “Hi, gorgeous.”

Galinda grinned and took a step back just enough to look her over, her eyes sweeping down Elphaba with exaggerated appreciation. “God, I will never get tired of seeing you in a suit.”

Elphaba smirked, the tension in her body finally started to ease. She gave her a deliberate wink. “What do you want to do for lunch?”

“Well,” Galinda said, lifting a small brown paper bag. “I went to that little place you love around the corner and got your favourite sandwich…don’t look at me like that, I remembered your order…and I was thinking…”

“Mm?” Elphaba tilted her head.

“…we could take it to the park, sit on the grass, and pretend we’re two normal people.”

Elphaba laughed and reached out to take Galinda’s hand. “God, I love you.” She kissed her again, slow and deep this time.

They walked down the street hand in hand. A few heads turned, but neither of them paid any attention.

Once in the park, they found a soft patch of grass beneath the shade of a tree. Elphaba sat first, stretching her long legs out with a small wince, and Galinda settled in beside her, swinging her legs comfortably over Elphaba’s lap.

They unwrapped their sandwiches and began eating.

“So,” Galinda asked between bites, “how was the meeting?”

Elphaba swallowed and took a sip from the bottle of water Galinda had packed. “I met with Legal and asked for an update on your case.”

Galinda’s brows rose. “You did?”

“Of course.” Elphaba glanced sideways at her. “They say it’s their top priority. Milla’s cooperating with them, and the studio’s close to wrapping up the internal investigation.”

Galinda blinked. “Wow. That sounds positive.”

Elphaba set her sandwich down in its wrapper and leaned back on her good arm. “I also asked them to hire a private investigator. I want everything we can get on Morrible and Diggs. I don’t want to be caught off guard.”

Galinda stared at her for a moment. “You’re doing all that…for me?”

Elphaba gave her a look. “Of course.”

“You’re wonderful,” Galinda whispered. “And…amazing. I didn’t think I could love you more, but…”

She was cut off by the sound of footsteps rushing toward them.

“Oh my God,” a girl gasped. “Galinda Upland?”

Galinda turned, already slipping into her public smile. “Hi!”

“I…I love you,” the girl said breathlessly. “I didn’t think it was you at first, but then I was sure it was and I…sorry, I don’t want to interrupt, but…could I maybe get a photo with you?”

“Of course,” Galinda said, already moving to stand.

Elphaba took the fan’s phone without needing to be asked, holding it up with practiced ease. “Say cheese.”

The girl giggled and leaned close to Galinda, beaming. Elphaba snapped a few shots, then handed the phone back with a polite nod.

“You’re so kind,” the girl said. “Thank you. And you…” she looked at Elphaba now, clearly aware of who she was, “you’re beautiful together. Like…wow.”

Galinda smiled. “That’s very sweet. Thank you.”

“Thank you so much for your time. Have a great day!” the girl practically skipped away.

They sat back down, and Galinda laughed quietly. “You’re good at that. Taking photos.”

“I’m multi-talented,” Elphaba said dryly, brushing a crumb off Galinda’s thigh. 

Galinda grinned and leaned into her.

They both went back to their lunch, easing into conversation again.

“There’s something I need to tell you,” Galinda said after a pause.