But truthfully, I didn’t care what I ate. I didn’t feel like eating vegetarian with Arthur was catering to his issues, and eating meat was just to
avoid wasting food.
More than that, I only remembered that Arthur always used two fewer pinches of salt when he cooked.
He had already noted my preferences even before I realized what flavors I liked myself.
I tossed a fruit and vegetable salad and sat on the counter to watch him wash dishes.
His black suit and his wiggling bear ears created a delightfully cute contrast.
I reached out and poked his cheek, slowly beginning to tell him my story.
“It’s true I was born into a family of snake–tamers, but I’m really not suited for it. I have a sister, though, and she’s the complete opposite of me.
“She’s tall and perfectly suited to bond with snakes. Those snake–shifters look beautiful wrapped around her, and they make such a good pair.
“Everyone called me a freak, and I believed I was.
Arthur didn’t say anything, just listened quietly, shaking the water from his hands, then gently patted my back with a b
paw.
I leaned into his embrace.
“But just now, you and I looked so good together, so perfectly matched that I forgot I was a freak.
Arthur’s arms tightened around me.
“You’re not”
I smiled, cupping his face. “You’re right, I’m not. And neither are you.
“We just can’t decide where we’re born or how we grow.
“It’s not your fault you don’t eat meat, and it’s not my fault I’m short
“The fault lies with the standards that demand us to grow in a certain way.
“We just didn’t live up to everyone’s expectations, but we’re doing perfectly fine, aren’t we?”
Arthur suddenly smiled. He leaned into my hand and kissed my forehead.
“We really are perfect for each other.”
