Tag

"You're serious?"

Alek shifted uncomfortably. "Yes. I already told you—"

"Aye, I know." Deryn was grinning. "But you've really never even heard of tag?" Alek gave her a cool look. She laughed. "Alright, but it's time for you to learn." She hit him lightly on the shoulder. "Tag, you're it."

Then she bolted.

Alek whirled, watching her go. "Deryn!"

"You're supposed to chase me!"

Alek looked at her doubtfully, then up at the grey sky. It was early spring in London, but still cloudy and damp. The two were in Regent's Park, outside the London Zoo, enjoying an afternoon off. Sort of.

"Deryn, it's going to rain!"

"Stop being a ninny!"

Alek looked around. The park was deserted. Deryn had stopped halfway through the park, at the crossed paths the Leviathan had made its descent over, or so Deryn had told him. She held her arms out, beckoning.

Catch me if you can.

With a final and brief moment of hesitation, Alek took off after her, chasing laughter through the mist. He felt childish, but it was actually a bit….fun.

If only Deryn would let him catch her.

She dodged and sprinted, dashing away right before he reached her. He could hear her panting, but still somehow laughing, though breathlessly now. They ran all over the park, stumbling sometimes, and shouting insults at each other.

Finally they came to a group of trees and Deryn was forced to slow a bit so she didn't trip. Alek gained ground, leaping recklessly over tree roots. As they ran out from under the cover of the trees, the sky opened and it began to rain.

Deryn looked up, startled for a moment, and Alek took his advantage. He'd only meant to grab her, but it turned into more of a tackle as she lost her footing and their feet tangled. They collapsed onto the ground, limbs in knots, rolling across the wet grass.

He landed on top of her. "Got you." The words were mostly breath.

Deryn glowered for a moment, then pulled his head down abruptly. Her lips were warm on his. Momentarily distracted, Alek let out a surprised grunt when she rolled over on him. He pushed her back down.

"No chance."

She laughed. "That's what you think." It took more of a struggle, but finally she had him trapped beneath her again. Alek had planned to protest, but she was kissing him silly before he could even begin.

So he forgot all about it.