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Disclaimer: I do not own RWBY.

Chapter 3. By Her Side

It wasn't long before Blake and Weiss started getting closer to one another.

They'd overcome the initial shyness around one another rather quickly, even despite the murmurs and rumors from their classmates.

Blake didn't ever think her crush on Schnee's daughter would bear fruit, especially when the family was notorious for being discriminatory against Faunus in their business.

But Weiss seemed to return her feelings, even if she demonstrated them in different ways.

After the incident in the bathroom, Weiss started to hang around Blake and the sisters as often as she could.

And they were more than happy to have her around.

They'd always been happy as a trio, but adding Weiss into the mix only made the enjoyment level rise.

They'd sit together whenever they had mealtimes, most days at lunch and every day at supper. When they had classes together, they changed their seats to sit next to one another, and even started arranging study sessions and times to work on their assignments together.

Weiss helped Ruby with a lot of the things she didn't understand, and her extensive knowledge benefitted Yang as well.

As for Blake, sometimes the Faunus girl just needed a moment of peace and quiet, away from the rowdy, excitable sisters. During those times, she would text Weiss to see if she were free, and if she was, they'd meet up and go for a quiet walk around campus together, or they'd find a tranquil spot at one of the courtyards to read.

Sometimes they talked a lot, discussing current events in the media or on-campus, or if the conversation strayed onto other topics, they'd keep going for as long as they could, just to hear one another speak.

And sometimes they wouldn't say anything at all. They found that just being quiet together was enough.

They learned more about each other, little by little.

After a lot of treading on eggshells about the most sensitive topic, Blake finally felt comfortable enough one day to ask Weiss about her family.

She learned that the Schnees had, in fact, acted horribly toward Faunus customers at one point in time. But Weiss explained that had been during her grandfather's generation, back when discrimination against Faunus was regrettably more commonplace.

But Weiss assured that her father, older sister, and herself engaged in no such practices. She assured her that whatever bad news about their family arose in the media today were simply trickles of old rumors passed down from her grandfather's time.

Blake was so relieved to know the truth, though she'd always had an inkling that it would be some kind of misunderstanding like that.

In exchange, she told Weiss about herself, how she used to be treated unfairly in middle school and high school because of her Faunus heritage.

The Faunus and human students had often formed their own groups, and not many interacted with the others. But in a certain year, there was a successful movement within the education system for teachers to help integrate the students in a safe and comfortable manner.

In this way, the human and Faunus students started to get along with one another, and even make friends.

Which was how she'd met Ruby and Yang.

She also opened up enough to tell Weiss about her first boyfriend, although it had ended in an amiable breakup. Weiss took a sympathetic interest in that subject.

"So did you find any other guys after that?" she wondered. "There are a million better ones."

But Blake shook her head and smiled.

"I'm sure there are. But I realized I'm not interested in the boys."

And it hadn't taken much more than that.

They'd both felt it, the intangible connection drawing them in to one another bit by bit.

Weiss had always thought that Blake acted differently around her, though not in a bad way. She was always much more aware around Weiss, much more open, and much more considerate.

Not to say she wasn't all of those things around Ruby and Yang, but Weiss felt it was in a different way with herself.

She didn't want to come off as conceited, so at first, she didn't mention it.

But it soon became clear - far too clear to ignore.

Blake showed her affections in the sweetest of ways.

She always asked how Weiss was feeling, because she'd come to learn that Weiss was extremely sensitive, despite the brave face she always put up.

Blake tended to talk to her in private about a lot of things, and eventually, she started to become more comfortable around Weiss as well. She would put her hand on Weiss' shoulder when she was stressed out, talk her down from episodes of distress, and try to redirect her attention to better things.

She was cautious with her touch, knowing Weiss was much more fragile than she appeared to be.

And she didn't want to overstep her boundaries or do something she might regret.

So she waited for a normal day, when nothing had gone wrong and neither of them were upset about assignments or tardiness or anything like that.

They went out for a walk together like always, sat on a bench beside the garden area, and indulged themselves in books. Blake read for fun, and Weiss read for classes.

Blake inched her hand closer and closer to Weiss', subtly, casually, as to not make a big deal out of it. Her fingers brushed against Weiss' knuckles and she paused, waiting for a reaction.

Weiss seemed to stiffen, but she didn't withdraw her hand or say a word.

So Blake took her hand, slipping her fingers in between hers, until Weiss' palm was settled against her own, shy smiles spreading across their lips.

And that was how it happened.

Quietly, comfortably, and naturally.

. . .

They told Ruby and Yang the next day, once Blake and Weiss themselves were sure this was exactly what the other one wanted.

And they both assured the other with unmistakable smiles, and a tight embrace that left no room for questions.

The sisters weren't the least bit surprised by the news. They were, of corse, ecstatic and congratulated their friends on their newfound relationship, but it seemed Ruby and Yang had been anticipating this from the very beginning.

"It was... kind of totally obvious," Yang told them.

Blake blushed and turned her face away, while Weiss tried to defend herself.

"It couldn't have been that obvious! Right, Ruby?"

She turned her attention to the youngest girl, who squeaked and hid behind her sister.

"Um... sorry, Weiss, but... yeah it was kinda obvious I think..."

Yang chuckled as Weiss' face just got redder and redder.

Weiss grabbed Blake's hand and pulled her out of the room so they could cool down from the embarrassment of it all.

But what started off with shyness and disbelief soon transformed into excitement and confidence.

They didn't hold anything back after that.

They walked to classes hand-in-hand, leaned on one another during mealtimes, and always started or ended the days with hugs. When they couldn't be together physically, they were always sending texts or calling each other.

They got attached to one another very quickly.

So it wasn't long before Yang was encouraging her best friend to ask Weiss out on their very first date.

The three of them were lying in Blake's bed that night, as they often did, discussing Weiss.

"I think it's time, Blake," Yang was saying. "You two've been seeing each other for two weeks now. You've been the talk of the college – a Schnee and a Faunus! I think it's time you guys start enjoying yourselves off-campus. Take her out to eat or see a movie or something!"

"You really think so?" Blake glanced to her left to look at Yang, pajamas disheveled and hair a mess. Her friend grinned.

"Of course! In fact, I think you guys should've already had your first date by now. You go at your own pace, but don't you think you guys are at that milestone by now?"

Blake didn't say anything right away, so Ruby spoke from her other side.

"I think it'd be nice for you guys! You've only ever been together on-campus so there's always been this... academic atmosphere in the backs of your minds. You guys should go out for a night on the town where you don't have to think about homework and essays and stuff!"

Blake had to admit the sisters made a valid point, and she also liked the idea of going out alone with Weiss. She wanted to take her somewhere nice, where there wouldn't be college-related things to distract Weiss and potentially stress her out.

So Blake glanced to Ruby and Yang each with a smile.

"I think I will," she decided. "This Saturday, I'll take her out if she's available for it."

She asked Weiss about the idea the next day, wondering if a date would be something she'd be interested in at this point of their relationship.

A part of Blake had wanted to surprise Weiss the day of the intended date by just taking her out without warning to show her a good time. But the more rational part of herself knew Weiss probably wouldn't like a surprise like that if she couldn't prepare for it properly.

Therefore, Blake made sure to ask her about it that morning before they headed off to classes.

"Say, Weiss? Do you have any exams early next week?"

Weiss pondered for a moment, her eyes shifting out of focus for a second as she went over her schedule mentally.

"No," she replied at last. "My next upcoming test isn't until Thursday. Why do you ask?"

When Weiss tilted her head to one side and gave Blake a curious look, the Faunus girl shuffled her feet a little nervously.

"Well... I was just wondering, if you're free, if maybe you'd like to... go out this Saturday evening? We could go to town and do some shopping and maybe have dinner. Does that sound okay?"

Weiss was clearly a little surprised by the offer. Her eyes widened and a faint blush appeared on her cheeks.

Blake's ears were flicking uncertainly as she waited for a reply, but Weiss didn't want her to feel uncomfortable, so she responded right away.

"Of- Of course! Blake, that sounds wonderful! I'd love to go out with you this weekend!"

With a tug of Blake's hand, she pulled the Faunus girl in and wrapped her arms around her shoulders. She wasn't sure what else to say, so she simply said what was on her mind.

"Thank you for asking me."

Blake's ears shot up happily as she returned the hug.

"You... You don't have to thank me for it. I just... figured it was something we could do now since we're..." She trailed off, but she didn't really have to finish speaking anyway.

A small purr rose up in her throat as she nuzzled into Weiss' shoulder, glad that her idea of a date hadn't been off-putting to her somehow.

A moment later, Weiss stepped back, still smiling.

"Let's work out the times and details after class."

Blake nodded.

"Sure."

After that, both of them were much more attentive during their lectures and much more eager to hold hands in the hallways or at lunchtime. With Yang and Ruby's help, they planned out the perfect time and activities for their date, which was something they were all looking forward to now.

The remaining days of the week passed by, and by Saturday morning, Blake was all jitters. She fretted about what to wear and how to do her hair, so much so that Ruby and Yang couldn't help but think it was cute how thoughtful she was being.

Yang suggested she shower in order to cool off both literally and figuratively, and Blake agreed on the idea. While she was cleaning off, she let her mind run wild about all the things she wanted to do with Weiss today. The more she thought about it, the more excited and impatient she got.

Thankfully, Ruby and Yang were there to calm her down and help her choose an outfit. Blake stayed in her sleep-clothes until after lunch so as not to make herself messy. But as soon as the afternoon was well underway, she pulled on her black jeans and low-collared purple shirt, the skin of her chest tactfully concealed by a black tank-top underneath.

She left her hair down, but Yang insisted she "spice it up a bit" and took the liberty upon herself to curl her friend's hair for her. She made sure to only style the ends though, so she could avoid putting the curling iron anywhere near Blake's sensitive ears.

The results were a very charming, never-before-seen version of Blake Belladonna.

Ruby and Yang couldn't sing her enough compliments, to the point where Blake was beginning to fear she'd overheat from the blushing long before she made it outside to go pick up Weiss.

It wouldn't be long now...

Before she headed out, Yang gave her a pep-talk, explaining things Blake could probably expect from this date, as well as things and gestures she'd be better off avoiding. Blake listened attentively, a serious expression on her face all the while. After all, she wanted tonight to go smoothly, for both Weiss' sake and her own.

Once Yang deemed her friend ready to go, she pulled Blake in for a big hug.

"Go get her, tiger!"

Blake shyly squeezed her back.

"Thanks, Yang."

"And don't forget!" Ruby pitched in. "If you need to, you can text or call us at any time!"

Blake nodded as she and Yang parted.

"I will. Thank you both. I just... I just want tonight to be perfect."

"Of course you do," Yang smiled. "I hope it will be, too."

"Me, too!" Ruby piped. "We'll be rooting for you, Blake!"

"Thanks," she chuckled. A glance at the alarm clock told her it was time to fetch Weiss. "You guys can hang out here if you want to. Just-"

"Ohhh no, no!" Yang shook her head immediately. "Not tonight! We're not gonna be crashing in your room on the night of your first date! What if you and Weiss decide you wanna come back her and have a different kind of fun?"

That turned Blake's cheeks redder more quickly than anything else.

"Y-Yang! We're not going to-"

"Buuuut just in case!" Yang continued. "Ruby and I'll chill in our own room tonight." She swept her little sister in to her side and gave Blake a wink. "Come on, Ruby. We can play that new board game."

"Oh! Oh! Yeah, I can't wait!"

As Yang led Ruby to the joint door between their rooms, Blake headed for her own room's exit door. She checked her pockets to make sure she had both her phone and her wallet, and then grabbed a small, light jacket from the back of her desk chair. She tied the sleeves of the purple plaid material around her waist so she'd have both her hands free, and then took a deep breath to steel herself.

It's fine. Tonight's gonna be great.

With that motivation in the back of her mind, she stepped out into the hallway and closed the door behind herself.

Making the walk to Weiss' room was somewhat unnerving. When Blake was alone, her mind tended to sink into the worst-case scenarios.

What if the place we go to has bad food and she gets food poisoning? What if I didn't bring enough money with me? What if her father happens to pass by and sees us together?

All of these and a million other thoughts buzzed through her head as she made her way to Weiss' room. She was so preoccupied with considering horrible thoughts that she very nearly walked right into the door.

Blake straightened herself up immediately and took another deep breath before knocking.

"On moment!"

The sound of Weiss' voice served to calm Blake down in a matter of seconds, and any doomsday thoughts were expelled from her mind the second that door was opened.

Weiss stood before her, adorning the same white dress she'd worn on the very first day Blake had ever laid eyes on her in-person. The soft, downy material fell all the way down to her knees, where it poofed up slightly and made small waves all the way around.

Her toes were visible by the straps of her fancy shoes with small heels underneath. There was a blue-tinged, faux-fur shawl around her shoulders, covering her otherwise exposed upper arms. A necklace with a simple silver pendant sat at the base of her throat, matching earrings dangling from each lobe.

Blake had never seen so much of her skin before all at once, nor had she ever seen Weiss look quite as stunning as this. There was perhaps a faint dusting of makeup on her cheeks, but the blush was genuine for sure.

And her eyes were as dazzling as ever, bright pools of the sky even as nighttime would soon be upon them.

Blake was rendered speechless for a long moment, eyes flicking up and down over Weiss, trying to visually absorb every inch of her and engrave this image into her memory.

Little did she know that Weiss was doing the same for her.

They both stood there in shocked silence for a minute or so, trying to calm down their fluttering hearts. Being the more vocal of the two by nature, Weiss inevitably broke the stunned silence.

"Good evening, Blake," she began. "You look marvelous." She stepped forward and reached out to take both of Blake's hands. Two Faunus ears perked up tall at the contact, making her realize she should respond somehow.

"I-I should be saying that! Weiss, you look... so incredible. I... I can't even describe..." She looked down at the floor, struggling to find proper words to express how she was feeling. Weiss squeezed her hands gently.

"You really think so?" she wondered softly. "You don't think this is... too much?"

Blake immediately shook her head.

"No! Not at all! Weiss, this is perfect! You're perfect!"

In her haste, she'd spoken rather quickly and without thinking it through, but the words were all truthful and stemmed from her heart.

Weiss shied her gaze away from Blake's, her voice small.

"You... do you really think that...?"

Blake wasted no time in responding. She gave a gentle tug to Weiss' hands and pulled her in closer, brushing her cheek against hers.

"I really do. Of course I do."

The smile that spread across Weiss' lips was so heartfelt that it made Blake smile as well. Weiss looped her arms around Blake's shoulders and sighed against her chest.

"Thank you, Blake."

To Blake, it sounded like she wasn't just being thanked for a compliment. It sounded as though Weiss was thanking her for something she'd been wanting to hear for her entire life.

Blake circled her arms around the small of the other girl's back, gingerly pulling her close.

They stayed there for a moment, the much-desired and long-needed contact from one another serving to ease their nerves.

Blake relished the feeling of Weiss in her arms, looking so gorgeous, fitting so perfectly.

And Weiss relished being there, feeling so warm, so accepted, so safe.

When at last they pulled apart, both girls were all excited smiles and rosy blushes.

"Well then," Weiss cleared her throat. "Shall we be off?"

Blake nodded and dipped her torso in a small bow.

"Please."

She gave her arm in a slightly-humorous display of old-fashioned courtship. Weiss played along with her and slipped her arm through the crook of her elbow, stepping close.

And just like that, the nervousness was nowhere to be found for either of them. All that radiated from them now was excitement and joy.

They headed out of the dorm building, knowing the remainder of the evening would be filled with similar emotions.

And it was.

Despite how naturally nervous they'd both been about their first date alone together, the afternoon plans went without a hitch.

Blake and Weiss did a bit of shopping together, after which they enjoyed a leisurely walk around the local park. They rested plenty in between to ensure neither of them would get tired, or Weiss' shoes wouldn't bother her.

There was no pressure for this date to be perfect as they'd both feared there might be. Rather than fretting over all the things that might go wrong, they enjoyed the evening as it went wonderfully right.

After viewing a beautiful sunset over the park's large, serene lake, the pair headed to a local restaurant for dinner.

They sat across from one another as they discussed the menu, smiling and laughing as they shared stories about humorous experiences they'd had previously, be it at family dinners or out with friends. But this was the first time that either of them were out to dinner for a romantic date rather than a family occasion or a fun night with friends.

As they waited for their food to arrive, they discussed at length how to pay for it. Both wanted to treat the other, but neither wanted to be treated. So in the end, they agreed to pay for the cost of only the other person's food. Blake gave Weiss cash to cover her portion, and Weiss would pay with her card to cover the rest.

They ate and enjoyed themselves, each admiring how the other's mannerisms changed so drastically here at a nice restaurant versus at the school cafeteria.

Blake made sure to engrave as much of this into her memory as possible, never wanting to forget her very first date with Weiss.

But she was still unsure about how they were supposed to end the night once they got back to campus. She'd intended to take her date back to Weiss' own room and wish her goodnight.

But... what about a kiss?

Blake had been internally debating all day whether or not she should kiss Weiss tonight, and she wondered how to react if Weiss ended up kissing her first.

But she'd also decided that she'd be fine if there was no kiss at all. She was just happy to be with Weiss.

For now, Blake was steeling herself to attempt a kiss on the cheek, but at the first sign Weiss wasn't interested, she'd gladly hold back.

Just thinking about it now was making her giddy as she finished her last mouthful of supper, then reached for her water glass to wash it down.

Weiss had finished a moment ago, and was also pausing for a sip. All they needed to do now was wait for the check, pay, and head home. A very simple, easygoing end to the night.

Until Blake noticed them.

A group of well-dressed young men had been sitting several tables away from them all evening, but now they were stealing glances at Blake's table. Her ears flattened when she noticed they were standing up, but not to leave. They were coming towards them.

She didn't know who they were, but they seemed to know Weiss.

Blake hastily put her glass down and straightened her posture, wondering if these were privileged family friends of the Schnees. She wanted to look presentable in case word somehow made its way back to Weiss' father.

Weiss quirked an eyebrow at her from across the table and put down her glass.

"Blake? What are you doing?"

Blake could only flick her eyes behind Weiss and swallow as the boys approached. Weiss stared at her a moment longer before her attention was forced onto the group, who startled her with a loud, rather obnoxious greeting.

"Yo! Issat Schnee's daughter?"

"No way! Funny seein' you here!"

"It's been a while, hasn't it? Not since the banquet a few months back."

"You still hate dancin'? Cuz you wouldn't dance with any of us!"

Weiss turned in her chair to face the four of them, who loomed over her like vultures.

Blake's assumption that they were family friends or cousins to Weiss was instantly tossed out the window when she witnessed the way they were treating her. These weren't amiable people – they were sore losers who couldn't take no for an answer.

Blake could see the recognition in Weiss' eyes as she looked them over, and that was shortly followed by a spark of dread and displeasure.

But Weiss had to keep up appearances, especially in a public place like this.

"Gentlemen," she said cooly. "It has been awhile, hasn't it? Though I'm sorry to say we were just leaving."

"Whoa, whoa," one boy held up his hands. "We?"

"Yo!" another shouted. "She's having dinner with the Faunus!"

"What? No way, man. Schnees hate Faunus."

"Well then what do you call that?"

The last boy rudely pointed a finger at Blake, as though he were pointing out some object in a thrift store.

She wanted to retort. She really did. So many years of abuse and discrimination had forged Blake into a person who would fight to defend herself rather than take insults without question.

But she couldn't fight back. Not this time. Not when Weiss' reputation – and perhaps Weiss herself – was in jeopardy.

So Blake held her tongue, toes curling in her boots, fists clenching in her lap, unseen.

"Weiss," she said calmly. "We should leave. We're going to be late."

"No."

Blake was more than a little surprised when Weiss refused her.

But Blake wasn't made to think that Weiss intended to go along with and entertain these boys.

Instead, her body language demonstrated just how livid she now was.

Weiss stood from her seat slowly, and even with the shawl to cover her, Blake could tell her shoulders were tense. She faced the quartet of boys, all of whom were taller than herself, but she met their eyes with unflagging ones. Sternly, she made sure she had everyone's attention before she went on in a low, almost threatening tone.

"We aren't leaving until they apologize for their inexcusable behavior."

Her voice sent a chill up Blake's spine.

But while she had to admit it was very flattering how Weiss was keen on defending her, Blake didn't want this incident to cause problems. She stood as well, reaching out for the other girl.

"Weiss-"

"Whoa, there!" One boy cut her off, though he was still looking at Weiss. "I don't see anything we gotta apologize for. All we did was come say hi to you."

"Oh, but dude! We forgot to say hi to her Faunus friend!"

"Oh, right! My bad! Hi there, kitty kitty!"

They all laughed and started making demeaning gestures at her.

Blake couldn't hide her shock that time. It had been so many years since she'd been subjected to such awful treatment, but the pain would linger with her forever, festering like a wound that would never fully heal.

Instinct told her to run, as it always did, but she had to think rationally here. She had Weiss to consider.

But it seemed... Weiss didn't require consideration for this any longer.

With a ferocious stomp that didn't at all seem to go with her small white shoe, she silenced the boys in a split second, taking them aback. Like a white tigress, she prowled forward, blue eyes burning cold fury.

Her glare told them everything her lips didn't – how she wasn't at all happy with the way they were acting, how she wouldn't hesitate to notify her father that they'd been harassing her, how her father wouldn't hesitate to take immediate action on Weiss' behalf, no matter what it cost these boys and their families.

All of this she conveyed with only her eyes, flashing her gaze to each of them so their small brains would comprehend her. But just to be clear, she made sure they understood with a single word.

"Apologize."

She wasn't asking.

The boys started to retreat, mumbled words of regret lingering in the spaces they once occupied before they hurriedly shuffled out of the restaurant.

Weiss watched them go without blinking – that same tigress watching pesky hyenas flee from her territory. She'd gone easy on them this time – just a warning growl – but if it happened again, she wouldn't be afraid to use her teeth or her claws.

Blake was transfixed in a mixture of shock and admiration. She'd never seen Weiss act like that before.

It was different from the tough-girl act she'd put on during her first few weeks of school. Rather, this was an entirely different side of her, one of bravery and protection.

Blake could feel tears welling up behind her eyes, and she reached for a napkin to dab them away.

It was then that Weiss turned back to her and noticed. Her serious expression faded into one of concern and dismay as she scurried to Blake's side.

"Blake! I'm... I'm so sorry-" She reached out her hands, but wasn't able to bring herself to touch her. She felt guilty, like it had been her fault those boys had attacked Blake.

But Blake quickly shook her head and dropped the crumpled napkin back onto the table.

"No... Weiss, it's okay. It's okay."

She lifted her face to reveal a smile. They were happy tears, tears of relief, tears of joy that someone would stand up for her the way Weiss had just done.

She could tell Weiss was trying her hardest to prevent herself from crying as well. Blake reached out and pulled her in, sighing as she rested her chin over Weiss' shoulder.

"Thank you... you didn't have to do that... for me..."

A beat of silence passed, and Weiss started to sniffle. But she returned the hug as tightly as she could, swallowing thickly.

"Of course I did... it was my fault they were so horrible to you... Because you were seen with me..."

But Blake wasn't about to let Weiss blame herself for this. She shook her head and wrapped her arms fully around her back.

"No... Weiss, people like that... they would've come to bother me even if I'd been by myself. It had nothing to do with you."

"But because I was with you, it gave them reason to be even more horrible! It's because of who I am-!"

"Weiss... please. It's okay."

Blake kept her there, in her arms, hoping Weiss knew that Blake meant every word she was saying.

Weiss didn't try to pull away, either. She just stayed there, face buried into Blake's collar, weeping so softly no one else would've ever known. But Blake could tell she was trembling, her back jolting from little hiccups.

By now, several waiters and other staff from the restaurant had approached them, asking them if they were all right. Blake could also see that other workers were lingering at the table where the four boys had sat, looking at their check, most likely to find some sort of identification so they could be tracked down and penalized for disrupting other guests' mealtimes.

Blake assured everyone that she and Weiss were fine, and after a moment, Weiss wiped her eyes and agreed. The staff apologized on behalf of the boys, while the girls ensured it was no fault of theirs. They made their payment for the evening, and then headed outside into the cool twilight air.

Weiss kept close to Blake's side, but didn't look up at her, despite how many times Blake glanced down at her. She could see Weiss' breath very faintly in the chill of the air, and when she focused on her, she could feel her shaking.

Blake brought them to a halt and quietly untied the soft little jacket from around her own waist, then draped it over Weiss' shoulders and shawl.

That was the first time since they'd left the restaurant that Weiss looked up at her. Blake smiled, but it soon faded when she realized Weiss' eyes were glazed over.

Blake pulled her in, then coaxed her to have a seat on a nearby bench. Blake sat beside her, reaching out into Weiss' lap to cover her hands with her own.

"Hey..." she murmured, golden eyes searching blue. "Weiss, are you okay?"

Her posture was slouching a bit, and her eyes were still unfocused. Blake could safely assume she was still dwelling on the incident at the restaurant, still blaming herself for it.

Weiss blinked, seemingly pulled from the trance by the sound of Blake's voice. She let out a withering sigh, clearly still distressed.

"Blake... I'm so sorry-"

"Hey, hey..." Blake hushed her, slipping a hand onto her back and rubbing gently. "I already told you, it wasn't your fault. You don't have anything to apologize for, Weiss. I promise."

Weiss still looked miserable, so Blake wasted no time in pulling her into another soft embrace. Weiss returned the contact lightly, with much less vigor than Blake might've liked. It felt like Weiss really hadn't forgiven herself. Blake hoped she was just tired from the eventful evening they'd shared.

After a few minutes, Blake coaxed Weiss to her feet again. Slipping one arm around her shoulders, she began walking back toward campus with her.

It took about fifteen minutes to make it back to the dormitory building, but once they were inside, Blake was thankful for it. Weiss was shivering so much, even with the added weight of the borrowed jacket over her shoulders.

The heat of the building was welcomed now as Blake started leading her up the stairs. That was when she was finally able to muster up the courage to ask her.

"So... Weiss? Would you like to come back to my room tonight? I-I mean just for a little while. We could watch a movie or something. Y-You don't have to sleep there."

She could feel her face heating up with every word spilling out of her mouth, and a part of her instantly regretted asking without thinking her words through properly.

But as they reached the hallway, Weiss actually smiled for the first time after the restaurant incident.

"That's very thoughtful of you, Blake. But... I'm sorry. I think I'll have to refuse for now. I'm... very tired..."

Blake couldn't help but take her words as a rejection of some sort. Her shoulders slouched visibly, and her ears drooped a little, too.

Appalled, Weiss gasped and quickly shook her head, grabbing both of Blake's hands in her chilled ones.

"No, no! Blake, please! Don't think of it like that! I'd actually... I'd love to go back with you, but I... tonight I'm just..." She sighed, dropping her gaze to the floor. "Just... maybe some other time."

Blake bit her lip, mad at herself that she'd made Weiss even more upset.

"No. I'm sorry, Weiss. I understand it was a bit of a crazy night. Of course you should get some rest. Come on." With a smile, she squeezed both of her hands. "I'll take you back to your room."

Coyly, Weiss reflected that smile, and followed after her.

They reached her room in a matter of minutes, and Weiss fished her key out from her purse to unlock the door. She flicked on the lights inside, then turned back to Blake, lingering in the threshold.

A beat of silence passed between them. Neither wanted to leave or be left, but they knew it was inevitable.

Weiss seemed to recall Blake's jacket around her shoulders and made a move to shrug it off.

"Oh. I should return this to you. Thank you, Blake."

But as she handed it over, Blake pushed it back to her.

"It's all right. Why don't you keep it for tonight? You still seem a little cold. Give it back to me tomorrow."

Weiss hesitated, then drew the jacket back to herself.

"Thank you."

"No need."

Another moment of silence.

Blake knew it was now or never.

She took a step closer, her eyes never once leaving Weiss'.

They were both uncertain, but they both wanted this.

Didn't they?

There was only one way to find out.

Blake leaned forward, until her breath was dancing across Weiss' cheek.

Weiss stayed put, inhaled, and closed her eyes.

The kiss was soft, brief, but perfect.

It was just what they'd both needed.

Blake pulled away as soon as it was over, scanning Weiss' expression for a reaction.

Weiss brought both hands to her face, hiding her mouth. She swallowed hard and whipped around, blushing madly.

"Th-Thank you for tonight, Blake."

The Faunus girl smiled shyly.

"I had a wonderful time with you, Weiss. See you tomorrow?"

"Of course."

"All right." She made a move to turn and take her leave, but something kept her there a moment longer. "Are you... are you sure you're okay? After everything...?"

That time, Weiss didn't give her a direct answer.

"Goodnight, Blake."

Perhaps it was the way Weiss' answer didn't coincide with Blake's question, or perhaps it was the slight tremor in her voice. But something made Blake linger outside her door, just for a moment...

As it turns out, a moment was all it took.

Weiss stumbled into her room, closing the door behind her, but not even thinking to turn the lock. Her legs had been wobbling ever since those boys had approached them, and her chest still felt tight, even after all Blake had done to help calm her down. There was an almost acidic feeling in her stomach, and she felt as though she might lose her supper.

She'd been so scared in front of those boys, repeat offenders who had always enjoyed harassing her in the subtlest of ways during family banquets. She'd been sacred of them hurting Blake, but most of all, she'd been scared of losing Blake.

Weiss dreaded the thought of Blake leaving her because of some thoughtless comments strewn about by rude strangers. And she hated to consider what Blake might think of her if she saw her like this, an absolute wreck who couldn't even calm herself down long after the incident was over and done with.

With a sob, she fell to her knees, the thud making a sound loud enough for keen Faunus ears to catch. Blake whipped around to face the door again, all senses on high alert now.

"Weiss? What was that? Are you okay?"

She waited anxiously, but couldn't make out a definite response. All she heard were incoherent mumbles, and the unmistakable sound of crying.

Panicked, Blake tried the door knob, and when it gave, she pushed right in, concern high in her tone.

"Weiss?"

She found her there on the floor, crumpled up into a ball beneath the white of her dress and the black of Blake's own jacket. She was hunched forward over her lap, breathing frantically, trying to no avail to get control over her sobs.

Blake dropped to her knees instantly, frightened and unsure of what to do.

"Weiss? Weiss, w-what's going on? Wh-What do I do? Weiss?"

Her hands fumbled for something to do, eventually finding their way to Weiss' back and chest. Blake could feel every desperate breath, every choked sob clogging her lungs. She was shaking, but it was a thousand times worse than before.

Blake suddenly understood that she'd never been shivering from the cold at all. It had always been from this fear, this anxious panic boiling inside of her. Now it was overflowing, and Blake didn't know what to do.

She held Weiss up as best she could, rubbing her back and patting through her hair. The sounds of Weiss' strangled whimpers made her ears hurt, and Blake was at a loss.

"Weiss, I... I've gotta call someone. S-Should I call for help? O-Or I can call Yang, m-maybe she'll know what to-"

But Weiss shook her head, broken sobs and fragments of words still pouring out between gasps. Her eyes found Blake's, and there was a plea in them.

"N-No..." she rasped. "P-Please, don't... I-I just need..."

Blake was having trouble making sense of her words, but she could understand for the most part.

"What?" she asked, relieved that there might be something she could do to help. "Weiss, what do you need? Please tell me, please-" She could feel her own tears already dripping down now, but she didn't want to let her own emotions get in the way of helping Weiss. "Please..." she begged. "Wh-What can I do...?"

She'd do anything.

She'd run across campus to fetch the nurse herself and bring her there if she needed to.

She'd carry Weiss to the first aid center if that was what she needed.

She'd do anything just so Weiss would be okay.

But even though Blake had been preparing herself to run at Weiss' request, she found it wouldn't be necessary.

Weiss managed to find the strength to reach out her arms, which she wrapped around Blake's shoulders. Her grip was so feeble her hands almost slipped right off.

But Blake was quicker. She returned the hug instantly, locking her arms around Weiss' back firmly, but with care. She pressed herself close to her, steadying Weiss' posture with her own. Weiss' chest heaved against hers as she buried her face into Blake's shoulder, hiccuping.

"J-Just this..." she whispered. "P-Please..."

Blake squeezed her tighter, giving a nod of assurance Weiss could feel.

"Okay," she murmured. "If this will help you, i-if this is what you need." She sniffled, swallowing down more sobs at the sound of Weiss' suffering. She could feel a violent throbbing in her chest, but she knew the pulse wasn't her own.

Blake tensed, nuzzling into the side of Weiss' neck, whispering as calmly as possible to her. "Hey... it's okay. I-It's gonna be okay, Weiss. It's okay..."

It was difficult to say those things when there was little evidence they could be proven, but Blake was determined to make her promised whispers into a reality. Somehow. She'd do whatever it might take.

Weiss seemed to believe her, because she kept nodding, whimpers and gasps mixing together on Blake's collar. The Faunus girl could tell that what she was doing was actually helping Weiss, so she didn't stop.

"It's all right. Just... Just take it easy, okay? You're gonna be fine. Everything's gonna be fine."

A tense moment passed by in this manner. Though Blake felt her calming words were helping Weiss a little, the relentless hammering in Weiss' chest was still troubling her greatly. Weiss was clearly still in great distress, and her sobs only quieted down, but they didn't slow very much.

Blake held her still in her arms, trying to provide a grounding sort of pressure, but not wanting it to be too much for Weiss to handle. She didn't want to hurt her.

Weiss clutched at her back as though for dear life, still trembling almost spastically.

"B-Blake..." she coughed. "I-I'm sorry..."

"Hey, hey..." Blake kept her tone low, and very, very calm. "No, don't do that, Weiss. You don't have to do that. Trust me. Please. It's okay."

She continued running her palms up and down Weiss' back, coaxing her to sit up straight so she could breathe a little better. Blake cradled the back of her head, threading her fingers into the silver locks.

"Gosh, your heart's pounding... Just take deep breaths, okay? Nice and slow. Here, try with me."

Blake took in a deep breath, slow and steady despite the situation.

Weiss did her best to copy it. Her throat was tight, and her chest still felt clogged. It was difficult for her to get the air in enough to have the desired effect, and her exhales always seemed too fast, too choppy.

But Blake didn't give up on her, nor did she let Weiss give up. She just kept up her slow and steady pace, coaxing Weiss to follow along.

"That's it. You're doing fine," she murmured. "It's okay, Weiss. You're okay. I'm here. I'm right here."

It took a while. Weiss was crying and shaking for a long time, and for both of them, it felt much longer than it actually was.

But Blake didn't give up, and neither did Weiss.

Eventually, after many drawn-out minutes of their breathing control, Weiss finally calmed down enough to breathe on her own.

Blake could feel the change in Weiss' condition. The trembling dwindled almost to nothing, and her heartbeat slowed in pace and lessened in severity. It settled back at the center of Weiss' chest, comfortably and naturally.

Blake couldn't help but let out a sob of her own now, one of the utmost relief. Weiss was still crying too, but the sobs were much less painful, and the tears were on their way out.

They stayed there a while longer, their embrace never faltering for even a second. Weiss kept trying to apologize, but every time, Blake just assured her she didn't need to.

By the time they finally parted, it was nearly midnight. Blake kept her arms loosely around Weiss' waist, allowing her to move however she needed to. But Weiss seemed content to simply stay there, tucked into her shoulder, sighing softly.

Blake didn't mind.

After what they'd been through tonight, she felt bold enough to lean in and kiss Weiss' temple.

In return, she felt Weiss' lips against her neck, light and brief.

Weiss held her in a way she'd never been held by anyone before. It made Blake feel important, like she was truly precious to someone. She wanted Weiss to feel the same way when she held her.

And judging by the way Weiss' body language had relaxed, a drastic change after the panic attack, Blake felt she'd succeeded.

The silence was comfortable now, but the two of them were beginning to realize the time, and the fact that they were still dressed in their date clothes. Eventually, Blake eased herself back, her ears flicking nervously.

"Are you all right now...?"

Weiss offered a smile and a nod. Reaching up, she gently dusted her fingers over Blake's Faunus ears, stroking them soothingly to help them perk up.

"Yes. I'm fine now. Thank you, Blake."

A sigh of relief tumbled out of the dark-haired girl's lips.

"You don't have to thank me."

"But I want to."

Weiss sidled forward, her knees brushing Blake's as she got closer. With a shy blush painting her cheeks, she leaned in to kiss her cheek again.

Only now that she knew Weiss was entirely all right did Blake let out the beginnings of a purr. Weiss rested her chin on Blake's shoulder, sighing softly.

"Blake...?"

"Yes? What is it?"

Weiss hesitated, as if bashful about what she was about to ask.

"Does... does your previous offer still stand? I... don't think I want to be alone tonight..."

Blake's response was to tighten her hug around Weiss' back.

"Of course. Of course you can stay with me."

Another sigh of relief.

"Thank you."

From there, it was a matter of helping one another to their feet. Both of them were a bit unbalanced after spending so long on the floor, but they managed to get up with one another's help.

Blake waited for a moment as Weiss went to her drawers, gathering sleepwear and other essentials for the night. Once she was ready, she returned to Blake's side and gave a nod.

They stepped out into the hallway, and once Weiss had turned off her light and locked the door, she followed Blake back to her room. It was a relief to Blake to find that Ruby and Yang weren't there as they'd said they wouldn't be.

And as Weiss excused herself to the bathroom to change, Blake scurried over to lock the joint door from her side. She knew the sisters would understand, and she'd explain everything to them tomorrow.

Even though the four of them had had little slumber parties and the like before, Blake was still enamored with the site of Weiss in her fitting blue nightgown, her silver hair wavy down her back. Blake had always wanted to tell her how lovely she looked in it, but until now, she'd never had a good reason to. So she didn't waste a second tonight.

"You look beautiful," she murmured, opening her arms to pull Weiss in. Weiss huffed in mild embarrassment.

"You flatter me too much."

"I'm only speaking the truth."

When she pulled back, she caught a good glimpse of Weiss in the dim lamplight. A healthy pallor had returned to her cheeks, and the usual spark had lit in her eyes once again. But she was clearly very exhausted after the long evening.

Blake still needed to change, but she led Weiss over to the bed first.

"Here, sit down. You must be so tired."

"I could say the same about you," Weiss retorted gently. "Don't dilly-dally and keep me waiting."

That was her own way of saying 'please come join me soon.'

Blake dipped her head in a nod, then kissed Weiss' forehead.

"I'll be out in a minute."

With that, she hurried over to her dresser, grabbed her pajamas, and slipped into the bathroom. She made quick work of changing into her loose purple top and black shorts, then brushed her teeth and did whatever else she needed to. She checked her reflection as though she were about to go on another date. But in a way, she sort of felt that she was.

All the times she, Weiss, Yang, and Ruby had held little movie nights or parties in her room, Weiss had ended up going back to her own dorm to sleep, more often than not. The few times she'd stayed over, she and Ruby had slept on the bed while Blake and Yang had taken the floor.

But tonight...

This would be the first time Blake would be able to sleep next to Weiss.

As her girlfriend.

She hadn't really considered the word until now, but now that she thought about it, that was what they were to each other.

Thinking about it made her all the more excited, but as she finally stepped back out into her room, she tried to stay composed.

Weiss was still sitting on the bed, her legs over one side, waiting patiently with her hands folded in her lap. The lamplight illuminated her skin, adding a golden highlight to her silver hair.

Blake tried not to stare as she approached and took a seat next to her on the bed. Weiss wasted no time in leaning against her side, slipping an arm around the small of her back. In response, Blake copied the gesture, letting the girl rest her head on her shoulder.

For a moment, they were both quiet, sitting together in the calm night, undisturbed. Their minds replayed events of their evening together and tried to focus on the better things.

But it wasn't long before they started to feel the effects of it all.

A petite yawn from Weiss was what motivated them to start getting ready for bed. Blake nuzzled into her girlfriend's cheek, coaxing her back a bit so she could look into her eyes.

"Tired?"

Weiss nodded.

"Just a bit."

But before they could move to lie down, Blake reached out and took both of Weiss' hands, gaining her full attention.

"Blake? What is it?"

Faunus ears flattened guiltily.

"Weiss... I'm sorry about everything that happened today. I know it wasn't either of our faults, but still I... I just wish our first date could've gone better... Why did all of this have to happen tonight...?" She blinked, realizing there were warm tears stinging behind her eyes.

Blake sniffled and hung her head, wiping her face against her shoulder.

It was Weiss' turn to reassure her now. She wiggled her hands free of Blake's grasp only so that she may cup her cheeks, pet through her hair.

"Oh, Blake..." she murmured. "Don't cry. It's all over with now. And it all turned out just fine." She curled her arms around her shoulders and pulled Blake in, letting her hide her face in Weiss' collar. "It's okay. The bad things that happened didn't change the fact that I had a wonderful time with you tonight, Blake. I've never been happier than when I'm with you." She pressed a kiss to each of Blake's Faunus ears, feeling as her girlfriend's fingers curled against her back.

Blake nodded, sniffling again.

"Me, too, Weiss. I've... I've always been happy with Ruby and Yang, but... but with you... it's different. I've never been this kind of happy before." She wiped her eyes and sat back, sunset-gold locking with sky-blue.

Another beat of silence passed, and for this, they didn't need words.

Both girls leaned in, quietly, nothing but a single breath between them. Blake's eyes asked the question, nervous, excited, and earnest. Weiss dipped her head and closed her eyes.

Blake didn't try to think about it too much. She just pressed her lips against Weiss' without sparing the time to be scared about it, or think about how monumental this moment was for each of them.

She closed her eyes too, and lingered for a moment, unsure of if she should continue or not.

But Weiss helped her decide. She returned the kiss, adding a bit of force to it, but only enough to tell Blake it was okay.

So Blake stayed, moving her lips in time with Weiss'.

When she was finally cognizant enough to realize this was actually happening, she found the ability to move her hand up to Weiss' hair and thread it through her fingers. In return, Weiss' palm found its way to her cheek, and Blake leaned into it, feeling the soft creases of her skin and the smooth curves of her nails.

Theirs was a gentle love, tentative but somehow certain, not unlike their first kiss.

It lasted for a moment or so, until both parties felt it was time to pull away.

They did so, eyelashes fluttering open, shy smiles forming on now-warmed lips.

Blake couldn't stop herself from pulling Weiss in yet again, undeniably ecstatic. She heard Weiss make a small, happy sound in the back of her throat as she returned the embrace, sighing blissfully.

Blake began to let out a purr, a full, hearty rumble that wordlessly told of every emotion she was feeling right now. Weiss cuddled into her lap, nestling into the side of her neck.

Blake held her for a moment longer before shifting a little. She flicked off the bedside lamp, leaving the room in darkness, save from a sliver of moonlight coming in through the curtains.

Carefully, she laid Weiss down on the bed, positioning her at the center of one of two pillows. Blake had never been more thankful for her oversized mattress before in all her life.

Weiss tiredly moved her legs while Blake pulled the sheets and blankets up over her. As soon as Weiss was settled, Blake laid down beside her.

Her enhanced night vision had never been more appreciated than it was at this moment.

She propped herself up on her elbows and gazed affectionately down at her sleepy girlfriend.

Weiss always looked so beautiful. She had ever since Blake had first laid eyes on her.

But there was something particularly charming about getting to see her curled up in Blake's own bed, hair slightly frazzled and clothes slightly ruffled from the soft passion of their first kiss.

She must've been staring for too long, because Weiss cracked open an eye and gave her a pout. Blake chuckled sheepishly and moved closer, dipping down to kiss her cheek again.

Weiss opened her arms, and Blake eased herself down into them. She draped one arm across Weiss' stomach and bent the other off to one side of the pillow.

Weiss stayed on her back and lowered Blake down on top of herself. Her hands found their way to the top of her head, and the soft ears that perked there. Slowly, Weiss began to massage them, scratching the sensitive fur lightly, with always the perfect amount of force.

Blake absolutely melted in her arms, letting out a low rumble from her chest.

For a while, Weiss' fingers stroked from her ears, through her hair, and all down her back. And Blake's purr never lessened or slowed as she pressed close, her presence providing a steadying pressure for Weiss.

But eventually, the exhaustion caught up to them both.

Weiss' ministrations slowed gradually to a halt, both hands going still in a loose embrace around Blake's shoulders. Her breathing became much slower and much deeper, until Blake knew for certain she was asleep.

Only then did she turn her head sideways to rest it over her girlfriend's collar and allow her own body to beckon sleep. Her ear found itself over Weiss' heartbeat, and for a long time, she simply listened, committing the rhythm to memory.

Memories of the night replayed in her mind, but Blake tried to focus on the here and now.

Weiss was here with her, safe and peaceful, and that was all she needed to know.

She fell asleep in the arms of the girl she'd once been nervous about, of the girl she'd seen the more delicate side of, and of the girl she'd grown to love.

Blake considered herself the luckiest girl in the world.

After all, Weiss was the best chance she'd ever taken, and the only one she'd ever care to succeed with.

A/N: Thanks so much to Bjorn for their continued support and for the nice fic idea! I hope you all enjoyed reading! There will be an epilogue, too!

If you'd like rewards like these, you can support me on P-a-t-r-e-o-n as Kiria Alice!

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