Page 17 of Swipe Right for Orcs
Tonight was incredible. I can’t wait to see you again. I need to go check on my sister—she was upset earlier, and I didn’t hear from her. I’ll call you tomorrow.
Osric
So he didn’t just leave;he had a reason, a good one. He plans on calling me. Okay, I can deal with that. Still, a small part of me is annoyed that he left in the middle of the night, like I was just some casual fling. But then, another part of me—a more understanding part—can’t help but think how sweet it is that he felt compelled to check on his sister.
You only get one family, and if I’ve learned anything, it’s that you don’t get to keep them forever. The thought makes my chest tighten, memories of my parents flickering at the edges of my mind.
I pop a mini muffin into my mouth, the sugary sweetness a temporary comfort as I reach for my phone. It’s on the floor beside the couch, probably fell there last night when I was too distracted to care. I pick it up and scroll to our text thread before shooting him a message.
Me: Good morning. I was sad when I woke up without you. How is your sister? I hope she’s okay?
But then,as I wait for his reply, something gnaws at the back of my mind, pulling my thoughts back to last night.
The realization hits me like a cold splash of water—oh my god; we didn’t use a condom. I scramble through my foggy memories, trying to recall if we talked about it or if I was just so caught up in the moment that I forgot.
Do orcs even use condoms? How does orc reproduction work, anyway? I mean, I was so caught up in him and everything that happened—his green skin, his powerful body, the way he made me feel—I didn’t think to ask.
Why did I let myself get carried away like that? The thought of being irresponsible—of maybe being pregnant with an orc’s child, if that’s even a thing—makes my stomach flip. Christ, why am I such a slutty idiot?
Osric: Morning pretty girl. She is fine. Just had a rough day yesterday and when I left for our date, she was upset and going to take a nap. But I didn’t hear from her, so I was worried. She’s had a rough time since we moved here.
Osric: Are you upset with me?
A smile tugsat my lips. He’s worried that I’m mad at him for caring about his sister. It’s endearing, really, how thoughtful he is.
Me: No, I’m not upset. I was a little annoyed at first. But then I saw your note and we are good. Family comes first. Is there anything I can do to help?
Osric: I’m so glad. I had an amazing night with you. Can I see you again?
The butterfliesin my stomach flutter at his words, my mind already racing with the possibilities.
Me: When?
Osric: Dinner Wednesday at my place? You can meet my sister.
Me: Sounds perfect. Send me the address.
Osric: 1313 Shadowmoor Lane. And Fairlie?
Me: Yeah?
Osric: Bring an overnight bag. Once I have you with me again, I won’t be able to let you leave.
Me: Promises, promises.
Me: One more thing. I was just thinking... last night, we didn’t use a condom. I’m kind of clueless about orc reproduction. Should I be worried?
Osric: Oh, don’t worry about it. Orcs aren’t as complicated as some other species. I’ll be happy to explain everything when you come over. Everything will be fine. Don’t worry.
His reassurance easesmy anxiety a little, though I still feel a tingle of apprehension.
Osric: Have a good day, beautiful.
I devourthe entire bag of muffins, the sweet crumbs still on my lips as I gulp down the water. I can’t help but smile as I prepare to dress for the day. It’s another day with Mrs. Gilmore, another day of her terrible attitude. But now, I have something to look forward to. Wednesday I’ll see Osric again, and I’ll meet his sister. I don’t know what her situation is, but if there’s any way I can help her, I will.
OVIVIA
The smell of coffee brewing fills the air, mingling with the subtle scent of freshly cut grass from the open window. Osric is lounging on the couch in the living room, his face illuminated by the glow of his phone. He’s grinning like a fool, texting away furiously.
