Page 94 of Beyond the Storm

Baxter:Okay, this question is from someone who wants to know where you learned to dance. They also added that you’re the most handsome of your brothers. Surely that makes Envy less pissed about being here?

Daman:A bit, I suppose. [sighs] Fine. I’ll humor you this once. I learned to dance in Athens many, many years ago. Lazarus had just released us from our training, and we went wild, experiencing so many things for the first time. Drinks, sex, you name it. While visiting a tavern, I saw a male dance and was fascinated by his fluid movements. I asked him to teach me. That’s when I fell in love with the art form. It was a nice distraction from the stresses of war.

Baxter:Wow. I don’t think I’ve ever heard you say so much. You normally just hiss at me. Wait! That was a poor choice of words.

Daman:Don’t make me kill you.

Baxter:Can I get you a refill on your coffee? It’s delicious, remember?

Daman:[narrows eyes] Ask the next question.

Baxter:Fair enough. [clears throat and scans list] Ah, this is a good one. There was an overwhelming number of questions about you and Bellamy. Specifically, your bromance.

Daman:Bromance? I wouldn’t call it that. He’s my best friend.

Baxter:Describe what he means to you.

Daman:[drinks more coffee] I needed more caffeine before I could even begin tackling that question. What does he mean to me? Like I said, he’s my best friend. Bell is my opposite. He’s outgoing and funny, whereas I’m introverted and cynical.

Baxter:Is that so? I haven’t noticed.

Daman:Okay, smart-ass.

Baxter:Tell me more. Why are you two so close?

Daman:I’m not exactly a lovable person. I’m bitter and hateful. But Bell understands me. When I need him, he’s there. It’s always been like that. Before I met War, Bell was my rock. He still is. They both are. Both keep me grounded. And when Envy tries to hurt me or starts screaming in my head, they bring me back to myself. They show me what true love is. They make me believe I’m worthy of it too.

Baxter:[wipes away imaginary tear] That’s so touching.

Daman:Well, I hope you got it all because I’m not repeating it.

Baxter:You and Warrin have recently become dads. How’s fatherhood treating you?

Daman:Sorin is a good baby. He’s curious about the world and stares at everything. He cries when he sees Castor though, which makes me laugh.

Baxter:You think it’s Castor’s red hair and piercings?

Daman:Probably just his dumb face.

Baxter:I feel the love between you. Okay, last question. I’m asking your brothers if they want kids someday, but since you already have a bouncing baby boy, I’ll tweak the question. Do you ever want a second kid?

Daman:[softly smiles] War said he wants an entire house full. But I’m good with the one for now.

Baxter:[silence]

Daman:What? You never shut the hell up and now you’re quiet?

Baxter:I’m just… stunned. Your face really lights up when you smile. No, I’m not flirting. I’m just not used to seeing you so happy. Picked out a middle name yet for the little guy? I think Baxter would be a great, strong name.

Daman:I wouldn’t curse my son like that.

Baxter:Wow. Rude. [places hand on chest] I’m wounded. Know what would make me feel better?

Daman:I don’t really care.

Baxter:So nice of you to be concerned. Okay, I’ll tell you. A little birdie told me that during a recent visit to your home, it was revealed that your husband may have a cosplay fetish. Has anything happened to prove this theory true?

Daman:[stares]