elphabathroppupland

[elphabathroppupland]

Look at You: Chapter 47

Chapter 47

“What do you think?” Galinda asked.

“I don’t know.  It’s a lot to think about,” Elphaba pointed out, brows furrowed in contemplation.

“Well, which do you like better?”

“I don’t know.”

“Elphie, you have to have an opinion.  It’s only our entire future at stake here.”

“You’re so dramatic,” Elphaba sighed.

“And you love it,” Galinda grinned.  Elphaba couldn’t help but smile.  The blonde had a point. 

“Do we have to decide today?”

“Well, no.  Of course not.  We have time.  It’s just…” 

“Just what, my sweet?” Elphaba asked, knowing it was a loaded question certain to be answered by an outpouring of Galinda’s thoughts spiraling forth.  And honestly?  She was rather looking forward to it.

“It’s a name, Elphie.  I mean, it means something.  And both of our names are very well known in Oz.  Your father is a governor, and my father is a very prominent citizen in Gillikin.  So we could go with one name or both.  I know it’s common for the wife to take her husband’s name.  But what about when there isn’t a husband?  Do we hyphenate?  Do we pick one name and give up the other?  I mean, Elphie, do you want to be Elphaba Thropp or Elphaba Upland?  Or there’s Elphaba Thropp-Upland.  Or Elphaba Upland-Thropp.  And then there’s my name.  Elphie, I don’t know what to choose!  And if we have children…”  Elphaba’s brows shot up.

“Childr—you’re really leaning into the idea of me becoming an all-powerful sorceress, aren’t you?  Tell me, my sweet.  Will they have your lovely blonde hair and my emerald green skin?”  Galinda stopped in her tracks and narrowed her eyes at Elphaba.

“Are you making fun of me, Elphaba Thropp?”

“Maybe a little,” Elphaba teased.  Galinda pouted for about half a second before Elphaba’s smile had a contagious effect on her.

“I sound very silly, don’t I?”

“Not at all,” Elphaba promised.  “We’re getting a little ahead of ourselves, don’t you think?  Before we think about things like last names and…and children, we still have to tell your parents and set a date.”

“Oh!” Galinda beamed.  “Let’s talk about that.”  Elphaba rubbed the back of Galinda’s hand with her thumb, and they continued on toward Dulcibear’s cottage.  “Of course we’ll need time to plan.  How about the end of the summer?”

“The…the summer?”

“Is that too late for you?  How about the end of the school year?” Galinda asked, batting her eyelashes.  Elphaba’s jaw dropped, and Galinda smirked.  “I’m kidding, Elphie.  You’re awfully tense.”

“I’m not tense,” Elphaba pointed out.  “It’s a lot.”  Galinda’s smile faded just a touch, concern creasing her brow as she studied her fiancée’s face. 

“You still want to do this, right?”

“More than anything, my sweet,” Elphaba promised.  Galinda’s smile brightened.  “I’ll admit I’ve only thought about spending the rest of my life with you every day since I fell in love with you.  The in-betweens and the logistics of names and children that would be physically impossible without magic that might not even exist hasn’t exactly crossed my mind.  But being your wife?  That’s something I never stop thinking about.”

“Elphaba Thropp, you hopeless romantic,” Galinda sighed dreamily, leaning over to press a kiss to Elphaba’s cheek.  They continued on toward the cottage, talking quietly together.  Elphaba quite enjoyed Galinda getting excited talking about the future.  It meant everything to hear her talk about their life together.  The last name they would have.  Their children.  If that was even possible.  Curiously, as she walked hand in hand with Galinda Upland of the Upper Uplands, everything felt possible.

*~*~*~*

“Elphie?  What’s wrong?” 

Elphaba Thropp stood in the middle of the road, eyes on the carriage parked in front of Dulcibear’s cottage.  The two big, white horses hitched to the carriage stood talking quietly together. 

“My father,” Elphaba muttered.  Galinda gasped softly and linked her arm with Elphaba’s. 

“We can come back later,” Galinda offered.  Elphaba stiffened, and Galinda searched her face, watching the anxiety and dread settle into her features.  “What do you need, Elphaba?  How can I help?”

Elphaba took a deep breath, swallowed hard and lifted her chin just a fraction of an inch. 

“Just stay with me,” Elphaba said softly, turning her head to look into Galinda’s eyes.  Those deep, dark wells were a source of strength she could pull from when she felt her own faltering. 

Her chin quivered, and Galinda reached up to place her hand against Elphaba’s cheek. 

“Always,” she promised with a smile that lit up her face.  Galinda gave her arm a squeeze, and they walked up the path together. 

“That’s Maza and Lux,” Elphaba explained, nodding to the horses who hadn’t noticed her presence yet.

The front door of the cottage opened, and Frexspar Thropp came stepping out in his finest attire, popping his top hat upon his head.  Dulcibear saw him out, catching sight of the two women coming up the path before Frex did. 

Elphaba closed her eyes, took a deep breath and prepared herself for what came next.  When she opened her eyes, she turned her face toward Galinda.  The blonde gave her an encouraging smile that reminded her that whatever happened here, they were still going back home to Shiz together.  They still had the rest of their lives to look forward to that did not have to include Frexspar Thropp.

Frex moved toward the carriage and was about to climb inside when he spotted his daughter from a distance.  He nearly lost his footing, but he gripped firmly to the side of the carriage and came to stand on solid ground again. 

Elphaba glanced at Dulcibear who was watching carefully from the porch. 

“Hello, Father,” Elphaba finally spoke, keeping her arm linked with Galinda’s the entire time.  She couldn’t see it, but Galinda was staring straight at Frex with a protective warning in her eyes that left absolutely no room for misunderstanding. 

“It comes as no surprise that you’d come unannounced.  You should have written.  I’d have had a carriage for you at the train station.”  The smile on his face was insincere and didn’t reach his eyes. 

Ever the politician.

“I’m only here for the day.  I’m here to see Dulcibear.  I had no plans to disturb you.”  She cleared her throat.  Frex eyed his eldest daughter warily before glancing to the blonde at her side.  “Father, this is Galinda Upland from Gillikin.  Galinda, this is my father, Frexspar Thropp.”

“Lovely to meet you, Miss Upland.  My daughter Nessarose speaks very highly of you.  I’ve heard great things about your family.”  Galinda offered a tight smile when Frexspar held his hand out.  She did the proper thing and shook his hand but pulled back a little too fast to be polite.

“I’m fond of both of your daughters, sir,” Galinda smiled, giving Elphaba’s arm a little squeeze. 

“Yes, well, I did hear that you volunteered to share your private suite with my eldest since she couldn’t help but demonstrate her unique…abilities.” 

Galinda’s eyes narrowed just a bit, almost imperceptibly.  A little smirk poked at the corner of her mouth.

“Your daughter is very gifted.  I’ve seen her do incredible things with her gift.  She’s my inspiration.  Truly.”  She unlinked her arm from Elphaba’s only to reach down and take her hand.  “And yes, giving up my private suite was a challenge at first, I’ll admit.  But I’m thankful to have gotten to know her.  She’s changed my life, sir.  I’m truly better for knowing her.” 

Elphaba took a deep breath beside her and squeezed the blonde’s hand. 

“Yes, well, it’s nice to hear that she’s learned how to play nice with others,” Frex mumbled, shoving his hands in his overcoat pockets.  Elphaba cringed inwardly and felt Galinda’s hand tighten around hers.

“Any parent should be proud to have raised a woman as strong and smart and immeasurably loving as your daughter, sir.  Especially in the face of such hideoteous treatment by those who should love her.”  Elphaba watched her father’s right eye twitch just a bit.  She’d seen that twitch many times growing up just before he’d blown his top and shout at her until she’d torn through the halls of the mansion and hid herself away in her room and out from under his disgustified eyes.

Oh, Oz.

But, peculiarly, Frexspar Thropp did not shout.  He did not blow his top.  Instead, that same smile that didn’t reach his eyes spread across his lips.  He chuckled.

“And your parents must be proud to have raised a young lady who can adapt to any situation forced upon her, no matter how unfortunate.”  His gaze swept to Elphaba.  She bit her tongue.  Galinda, however, did not.  She straightened her shoulders and looked right in Frexspar Thropp’s eyes. 

“My parents weren’t perfect.  But they loved me, and I like to think that their love and acceptance of me is what helped me break free from the person I thought I was supposed to be and find the person I am.  The person your daughter has helped me become.  And I’m proud to say that someday soon, I can call her my wife.”  The insincere smile on Frexspar Thropp’s face faded, and his eyes widened in surprise.  Galinda jolted only just enough for Elphaba to feel the pull of it against her hand.  The realization of what she’d said sank in.  But she kept her shoulders back and straight and didn’t break eye contact with the governor. 

Frexspar Thropp’s face turned a funny shade of red before going pale.  He cleared his throat and glanced between Elphaba and Galinda and then down at their hands where beautiful gems glistened in the sunlight.  Elphaba rang her finger over her mother’s ring upon Galinda’s finger.  Curiously, there seemed to be no recognition in his eyes.  Frex dragged his gaze up to settle upon Elphaba’s again. 

“Galinda, would you give me a moment with my father, please?” Elphaba asked softly.  Galinda glanced at her, one eyebrow quirking as if to silently ask if she was sure.  Elphaba just nodded, and Galinda gave her had a squeeze before letting go of her hand.  She nodded her head civilly  at Frex before stepping around him and moving to join Dulcibear on the porch.  The bear put her arm gently around Galinda’s shoulders and guided her into the cottage.

Once they were alone, Elphaba crossed her arms across her chest.  She looked her father right in the eye.

“Do you know how this will look if it comes out that the Governor of Munchkinland’s daughter betrothed herself without his knowledge or approval?”

“I don’t need your approval.  Or your blessing.”

“I’m your father, Elphaba Thropp.”

“My father?” she choked out.  “You say that so freely when we’re here alone.  Yet where was that sentiment when you distracted me with books while you paraded Nessarose around for everyone to see what a doting, loving father you were?”

“Whatever you think my shortcomings were as a father, I’m still your father.”  Elphaba’s fingers curled into her skirt, fisting into the fabric as she took a steadying breath to calm herself.

“When it suits you.  When you want to paint the picture of a happy family.  But where was I?  Always in the background—or even better, out of sight---so I didn’t distract the public from the daughter that wasn’t a complete disappointment.  Your living doll.”  She was shaking inside.  Years of words she’d fought to find the courage to say were bubbling up in her throat and burning like acid on her tongue. 

“I—”

“You might have been disappointed to have a daughter that didn’t look or behave the way you wanted.  But I was disappointed too.  I was disappointed that I didn’t have the father Nessa had.  I didn’t have the father who loved me unconditionally.”  Frex opened his mouth and promptly closed it.  There was no regret in his eyes, but there was something deeper.  Stronger.  Was that…shame?  “I don’t need or seek your approval, because everything I’ve found since leaving home, and everything I’m working to build is because she sees me.  She loves me. And I’ve found more strength in her and in myself than I ever thought I could have.  Because you always told me I was limited.  I couldn’t do this.  I couldn’t say that.  I couldn’t be just anything, because I was different.  I know you were ashamed to have a daughter so different.  I’m ashamed to have a father who’d so blindly hate one daughter with the same heart he devoted to his other, so I suppose we do have something in common after all.” 

Frex’s face was even paler, if it was possible.  His expression unreadable. Elphaba was shaking now.  Visibly.  But she kept her eyes trained on his.  For the first time in her life, she’d said what she needed to say to him.  And now?  Now he had nothing to say.  He had no snide remarks.  He wasn’t telling her to stop jabbering.  She’d said what needed to be said.  And now?  What was left to say? 

He swallowed hard and reached up to adjust his hat on his head.  And then, without words, he turned and climbed up into the carriage, grabbing the reigns.  Maza and Lux, both having watched the entire scene unfold, bowed their heads respectfully to Elphaba before trotting off and carrying her father out of her sight. 

When he was gone, her hand flew to her stomach, and she took a gasping breath.  Her shoulders shook with a sob.  Tears pricked at her eyes, and when the heavy wooden door of the cottage flew open, Galinda practically floated down the steps and rushed to Elphaba, pulling her in close. 

They stood there for the longest of moments, holding each other while Elphaba’s tears dampened Galinda’s neck.  She took a deep, shaking breath and finally pulled back, letting Galinda reach up to wipe at her cheeks with her fingertips.

“Are you ok, Elphie?”

“I’m fine.  I’m…I am.”  Elphaba nodded her head, though she was still trembling.  Galinda wrapped her arms around her shoulders and hugged her close again.  Elphaba leaned into her, one hand stroking through the soft blonde hair against Galinda’s back.  “I said the things I needed to say.  The things he needed to hear.”  She pulled back and took Galinda’s hands in hers.  “Thank you for being here.”  Galinda smiled softly but shook her head.

“I overstepped, Elphie.  I’m so sorry.”

“You didn’t.  You were perfect.  Everything you said…I…”  She sighed softly and squeezed Galinda’s hands softly.  “I love you.”  She sniffled.

“I love you,” Galinda smiled.  “Come on.  Let’s get inside.”  She tugged on Elphaba’s hands, guiding her back toward the cottage.

[elphabathroppupland]

Clandestiney Yours: Chapter 9

Chapter 9

She’d never craved anyone this way before.  She hadn’t wanted to.   Hadn’t intended to.  But Elphaba Thropp was under her skin and wrapped around her bones now.  Her body positively thrummed in anticipation when she pushed her way into their shared suite and wondered how far behind Elphaba might be.  Would she keep her waiting?  Would she be a dutiful student and go to class despite her roommate’s wants?  Or was she close behind and about to walk through that door any second? 

Strangely, both scenarios were equally arousing. 

Galinda was overheated, and she was soaked to her thighs.  She wasn’t proud of that, but she’d been thinking of Elphaba all day.  And when she hadn’t shown up in the dining hall at lunch, she’d felt positively feral wondering what Elphaba was up to.  Was she disrupting her usual routine to drive her crazy?  Was she distancing herself because she didn’t want this? 

Galinda had sought out her answer and gotten the message loud and clear at the library.  Elphaba Thropp wanted her.  She could feel it in the way Elphaba’s gaze darkened in arousal.  She could feel it in the way Elphaba’s hands touched and held her.  She could feel it in the way Elphaba’s mouth had met hers, hungry and aching for more. 

Not here.  Not here.

She could still hear the hoarseness of her voice.  The raspy breath that accompanied a pained denial of acting on their urges right there in the middle of the library. 

Galinda deposited her bundle of books onto the seat of a chair before kicking off her heels and stepping in front of her mirror.  She looked at herself, stared right into her dark brown eyes and pursed her lips in a way that made her dimple sink in.  She turned her head from side to side, whipping her blonde locks over her shoulders. 

She ran her hand down the length of her neck, feeling her own pulse racing beneath her fingertips.  Her flesh was heated, damp, begging to be touched.  But her own hand wasn’t what she needed. 

She untucked her blouse from her skirt and quickly unbuttoned, revealing the pink lace bra underneath.  It was new and not very practical, as it was only held together with a bit of pink ribbon in the front.  She’d put it on in hopes that a certain green roommate might tear it off of her later.  Or better yet, she’d be so ready to ravish her that she wouldn’t bother to fully undress her. 

Galinda moaned softly and squeezed her thighs together at the mere idea of Elphaba feeling even half the arousal she was feeling at this moment.  She could just picture her coming through that door, eyes dark, chest heaving, fingers flexing.  She could see her tearing across the room and flinging her onto the bed and falling over her in a flurry of hot, wet kisses that would trail all the way down between her legs. 

Fuck.

If Elphaba Thropp ate pussy as well as she kissed, Galinda wasn’t sure she’d be able to survive it.

As she stripped off her blouse, she couldn’t help but wonder if Elphaba was walking around campus just as wet as she was.  She shivered, running her fingertips down between her breasts and over her stomach.  She bit her lip and unbuttoned her skirt, letting it flutter to the ground around her bare feet. 

The matching pink panties that went with her bra were positively ruined, and she slipped her fingers down the front of them, barely grazing over drenched flesh.  The moan that tore from her throat was absolutely filthy. 

Elphie, please hurry.

Her heart was racing.  Her body was starved for touch.  When she slipped her hand out of her panties, she almost sobbed.  She’d never felt this needy before.  She’d never felt her body respond this way just thinking about previous partners.  She’d never felt the carnal desire to devour and be devoured while knowing with absolute certainty that she’d never quite slake her thirst for more.

Galinda Upland of the Upper Uplands had never gone out of her way to get someone’s attention before.  She’d never been made to work for it.  Elphaba Thropp was a menace.  And Galinda fucking loved that.

Elphaba had had the audacity to not show up to the dining hall for lunch, forcing Galinda to traipse across campus to find her at the book place.  She’d tried to at least pretend she was there for a reason, but her pretense had crumbled in the heat of the moment when Elphaba had licked her lips and lit Galinda’s nerves on fire.  She could still taste her lips.  She could still feel her hands on her.  And her body was still aching for touch that only Elphaba seemed to be able to satisfy, even if the hunger would be quickly and easily rekindled by a mere look from her green roommate.

Get it together, Galinda.  Desperate is a terrible look on you.

She looked herself over in the mirror.  Her face was flushed.  Her hair was tousled.  Her skin was covered in a sheen of sweat, and her lips were just the slightest bit chapped and swollen from kisses. 

Fuck that.  Elphie’s gonna lose her mind.

She smirked and winked at her own reflection before turning and flouncing across the room.

Galinda thought about slipping out of her panties.  They were soaked and uncomfortable.  But she also thought about how good it would feel for Elphaba to peel them off of her.  Slowly. 

And where was her roommate, anyway?  Why wasn’t she coming through that door?  Why wasn’t she already pushing her onto the bed and burying her face between Galinda’s trembling thighs?  This just would not do.

She moved over toward her bed on wobbly legs, opening up her bedside table searching for something.  The something that had been helping take the edge off as of late, at least until she’d found much more fulfilling ways to scratch the itch.

She found the silk sachet in the back of the drawer and reached for it, fingers curling around the object inside.  She shivered and her clit throbbed, but she quickly dropped it and shoved the drawer shut. 

She was going to wait.  She was going to relish every moment when Elphaba came home.  If she ever came home.  She was certain it’d be worth the wait.

Galinda gasped suddenly when she heard the doorknob turn.  She whipped around to see the heavy wooden door opening up.  And there she was.  Elphaba stepped in, eyes wide and dark behind her glasses.  She was breathing heavily as if she’d run home, and Galinda found it thrillifying to think of Elphaba rushing home just to please her.

Elphaba leaned back against the door to shut it, never taking her eyes off of Galinda.  Galinda shivered under her stare, and she dragged her gaze down to see Elphaba reach behind her to lock the door.

Galinda Upland of the Upper Uplands swallowed.  Hard. 

“Elphaba Thropp, you kept me waiting,” she choked out, voice hoarse with desperation.  Elphaba narrowed her eyes for a moment before removing her glasses and folding them up.  She moved cooly toward her side of the room, depositing the spectacles on her bedside table.  She turned her back to Galinda for a moment. 

“I got to class and it was cancelled,” Elphaba shrugged, and Galinda could practically hear the smirk in her voice. 

“You went to class?”  Galinda stared at Elphaba’s back, blinking rapidly. 

The audacity.

“I waited for you,” Galinda bit out, voice tinged with annoyance, desperation, hunger, need.  “I don’t wait for anybody.”

“And yet…you—”  Elphaba turned around, the cockiness in her smirk fading as Galinda launched herself across the room, wrapping her arms around her neck.  Elphaba stumbled back, grasping at Galinda’s waist as they fell back against the wall.  Galinda’s mouth was on hers before she could take a breath.  Elphaba moaned deeply, digging her nails into the blonde’s slender waist.  “Fuck, Galin—”  

“Look at you, Elphie,” Galinda choked out between hungry kisses, hands working with buttons on Elphaba’s white shirt.  “A couple of orgasms, and you think you’re Lurline’s gift or something.  Making me wait.  Shame on you, Elphie.”

“Says you,” Elphaba bit out, pushing off the wall and walking Galinda backward toward the cot.  “You’ve been teasing me all day.”  She broke this kiss then, pushing back gently on Galinda’s waist.  Galinda fell back on her butt against the mattress on Elphaba’s cot.  She bounced and blinked up at her green roommate in surprise.  “You knew what you were doing.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Galinda huffed, reaching to finish the last two buttons on Elphaba’s shirt.  It fell open, and she immediately leaned forward, pressing hot, wet kisses just above Elphaba’s belly button, giving the sensitive flesh a gentle nibble.  Elphaba’s head rolled back, and she threaded her fingers through blonde hair, leaning her shins heavily against the cot frame to keep from toppling over.

“Please,” Elphaba moaned out.  “You knew.  Dr. Dillamond’s class…you—ohhhh…”  Galinda’s tongue darted out, swirling around her belly button as she tugged roughly at Elphaba’s skirt.  “Oz, Galinda…”

“Mmmm,” Galinda smirked, hands moving to squeeze Elphaba’s waist as she kissed over hip bones and scraped her teeth against soft curves.  “You taste so good.” 

Elphaba’s skirt and boots were soon just a pile on the floor, and Galinda’s eyes flicked upward with heavy desire before she pressed her nose right against the front of Elphaba’s underwear.  She took a deep breath in, and Elphaba’s legs gave out.  Galinda squealed when Elphaba fell over her.  Elphaba shifted above her, coming to rest her forehead against Galinda’s as she straddled her hips.  Galinda’s glossy pink nails scratched down the soft, exquisite span of Elphaba’s back, and Elphaba claimed her lips in another kiss.

“So good, Elphie,” Galinda panted, hands moving down to cup and squeeze her ass.  Elphaba groaned deeply, burying the cry in Galinda’s mouth.  Elphaba’s hand was between them in a moment, cupping over the damp fabric of Galinda’s panties.  She pulled back then, lips parting in a gasp as she felt Galinda’s wet heat seeping through.  Galinda bit her lip and flushed deeply.  She looked so shy for just a moment.  “I told you how wet I was, and you still kept me waiting.”

“Galinda,” Elphaba groaned.  “Do you always—”

“Just for you,” Galinda admitted, eyelashes fluttering as her eyes rolled back.  It was an intimate admission, but it was the Oz damned truth.  Nobody could get her worked up like this.  And when she focused on Elphaba’s gaze again, she saw the look of awe in her eyes.  Her features had softened, and Galinda felt something inside of her swell with warmth and emotion.

Oz damn it.  Don’t think.  Don’t think.  Just feel.

She wrapped her fingers around Elphaba’s wrist and guided her hand inside the front of those pretty pink panties.  Elphaba’s fingers twitched against slick folds, and she moaned, pressing kisses to the hollow of Galinda’s throat and then up her neck and behind her ear.  Galinda was whimpering now, wrapping one leg around her waist.  Elphaba wasted no time pushing two fingers inside of her, curling them gently but being mindful of her nails.  Galinda’s back arched, and her eyes rolled back again. 

Elphaba’s thumb circled her clit, and Galinda’s hips came up off the cot. 

“So good,” she moaned.  “Please don’t stop…”  Elphaba hushed her with another kiss, smiling against her lips as those nails scratched down her back again. 

She slipped her hand out from between Galinda’s legs, and the blonde whimpered. 

“So pretty,” Elphaba cooed, one hand on either side of Galinda’s shoulders, pressing into the mattress.  Galinda leaned up and bit Elphaba’s bottom lip, dragging her teeth over it before releasing it with a pop. 

“Don’t make me beg,” Galinda gasped.  Elphaba smirked, and Galinda narrowed her eyes.  “You want me to beg?”  She gasped softly and brought her hands up Elphaba’s shoulders and neck and then buried them in her braids.  “Please, Elphie.  Please touch me.”  Elphaba shifted then, and Galinda’s hands moved down her arms to grip her hips.  “Wait where—”  Elphaba moved to kneel between Galinda’s legs on the mattress, peering down at her with a shy smile.  Her hands slid up and down pale thighs, thumbs digging into flesh and muscle just enough to have Galinda leaning back against her pillow.  “That feels so good.” 

Elphaba’s hands moved again, this time coming up to the pretty pink bra, fingers toying with the ribbon for a moment before tugging until the knot fell apart.  Galinda gasped softly as Elphaba unwrapped her like a birthday present.  She pushed the fabric away, staring down at her for only a moment before she leaned in to take a hard nipple between her teeth.  Galinda sucked in a sharp breath as lips and tongue and teeth worked her over.  Her thighs trembled when Elphaba pulled back to tease the other breast, mouth curving around the soft flesh in a smile as Galinda’s fingers curled in her braids again and gave them a gentle tug.

Elphaba’s mouth was warm and wet, and Galinda was squirming under her.  She felt so good.  Too good.  Her pulse was in her ears and her neck and between her legs, and every place Elphaba nipped and sucked felt the warmth of devout worship of breath and tongue and teeth. 

She was moving then, mouth open against her sternum and down toward her stomach.  She nuzzled her nose against Galinda’s belly button, lips playing around the edge until she nipped with her teeth. 

“Elphie,” she gasped.  “Please…”  Elphaba’s mouth trailed down along the edge of Galinda’s panties.  Galinda arched up, and Elphaba stopped.  “Elphie?!”  Elphaba raised up a little, gaze searching Galinda’s face until Galinda’s brown eyes focused in on hers. 

“I’ve never…I don’t know how.”  Galinda shook her head rapidly.

“It doesn’t—oh, Oz—it doesn’t matter!  It doesn’t…ahhh…”  She squirmed and bit her lip, hips bucking up against air, desperately chasing some kind of friction.  “Please.  I just need your mouth on me.”  Galinda bit back a moan as Elphaba’s trembling fingers began to tug at her panties.  She lifted up so she could slide them off of her.  Elphaba was moving down the bed, trying to get comfortable as Galinda bent her knees and spread her legs. 

The scent of arousal was heavy in the air, and Galinda’s gaze moved down to see Elphaba staring at her with equal parts nervousness and need, and she couldn’t help the little smile that curved on her lips at the thought of being Elphaba’s first.  It was powerful.  Moving.  Erotic.  She brought her hand down between her breasts and over her stomach until she met Elphaba’s hand on her thigh, curling their fingers together gently.

“Touch me, Elphie.  Please, I need you to.”  Elphaba’s gaze snapped up to meet hers, and Galinda bit her lip, closing her eyes and resting back against the pillow.  She felt the tentative brush of fingertips over her dripping folds, and within a moment, Elphaba pushed two fingers inside of her, easing in slowly at first but finding a rhythm that had Galinda whimpering, hips jerking at each pass of Elphaba’s thumb over her clit.

She stroked her and teased her, the sounds of Galinda’s moans and whimpers emboldening her.

Elphaba slipped her fingers out, only trail the flat of her tongue up Galinda’s slit, teasing her clit with the point of her tongue before starting over.  Galinda cried out, hips jerking against Elphaba’s face.  She felt strong hands grip her thighs and keep her spread open and pinned to the mattress, and she was certain she’d lose control right then. 

It took Elphaba a few moments of stops and starts, uncertain fumblings and quiet exploration.  But soon, she had a rhythm, mouth and fingers working in tandem like Galinda had done for her, and when Galinda was trembling and muffling strangled cries into her hand, she seemed to grow more confident. 

Galinda was shaking, blood rushing hot and fast through her veins.  With every pleasurable swipe of Elphaba’s tongue, she moaned encouraging words wrapped in filthy curses, and at one point she was certain she heard Elphaba chuckle, but she was so overcome by pleasure from the vibration in caused between her legs that she didn’t question it.  And she was close.  So close.  Elphaba’s mouth was soft and warm eager against her.  Galinda reached down with both hands, curling her fingers into Elphaba’s braids to hold her in place.

“Right there.  Please don’t stop.  Oh Oz, Elphaba!”  Her hips jerked in rhythm with Elphaba’s tongue, and when Elphaba experimentally slipped her tongue inside, Galinda gasped and broke apart beneath her, coming hard and crying out Elphaba’s name over and over like a prayer to Lurline herself.    

Her legs were shaking, and when she relaxed against the mattress, Elphaba slowly lifted her head, resting her chin on Galinda’s stomach.  Galinda could barely register a thought, but as her breathing slowed and her body began to cool, she lifted her head to meet Elphaba’s gaze.  She groaned softly at the sight of Elphaba’s flushed face, lips and chin slick.  She sighed softly and let go of her grip on Elphaba’s braids, dreading what came next. 

Don’t leave.  Don’t go.  Please don’t. 

The words never left her lips, but they echoed through her head and her heart, a mantra, willing Elphaba to stay.  Willing herself to stay. 

You’re Galinda Upland.  You want something, you know what to do.

Elphaba sat up a little, and Galinda reached for her.  Elphaba’s lips curved into a small smile at the softness of the gesture, and Galinda scooted over in the bed.  It wasn’t nearly as big or comfortable as her own, but she honestly didn’t mind in the least.  She’d gotten what she wanted, but now she found herself wanting more.  And she wasn’t sure what it meant.  Did it have to mean anything? 

Still, she found herself holding her breath until Elphaba crawled up to lay on her side, one leg curling over Galinda’s.  Galinda turned to face her, moving one hand down to rest on her hip. 

“Was that…I mean—” Elphaba stuttered.  Galinda brought her fingertips to Elphaba’s lips.

“Elphie?” she whispered, brown eyes glimmering in the soft afternoon light.

“Hmm?” 

Galinda caught her bottom lip between her teeth, shy for moment.  But then she smiled and moved in a little closer.

“Would you kiss me?” she asked, words barely above a whisper.  “Hold me?  Just for now.  Would you stay?”  She watched Elphaba’s eyes searching hers for a moment, but then Elphaba leaned in and kissed her softly.  Slowly.  Opening up to her.  There was no rush now.  No desperation.  Just a need for more.  More of this.  More connection. More time.  Just more.

Between kisses, Galinda found herself smiling against Elphaba’s lips, a gentle giggle escaping when soft fingertips and strong nails discovered sensitive, ticklish areas. 

It was nice, Galinda had to admit.  It was good to be held, to be touched and kissed.  It felt good.  It felt like more.  And whatever that meant for tomorrow, at least right now she could wrap herself up in the bliss of the moment and forget about everything else.

[elphabathroppupland]

RIGHT! And now I'm forced to do what I hate to be able to afford a place to write or electricity to do the writing, and I'm so tired doing the stuff I hate that sometimes I don't have the energy to do the writing that I love.

they told me to “do what i love” but forgot to mention that writing wouldn’t pay rent

[elphabathroppupland]

Want

She’d never craved anyone this way before.  She hadn’t wanted to.   Hadn’t intended to.  But Elphaba Thropp was under her skin and wrapped around her bones now.  Her body positively thrummed in anticipation when she pushed her way into their shared suite and wondered how far behind Elphaba might be.  Would she keep her waiting?  Would she be a dutiful student and go to class despite her roommate’s wants?  Or was she close behind and about to walk through that door any second? 

Strangely, both scenarios were equally arousing. 

Galinda was overheated, and she was soaked to her thighs.  She wasn’t proud of that, but she’d been thinking of Elphaba all day.  And when she hadn’t shown up in the dining hall at lunch, she’d felt positively feral wondering what Elphaba was up to.  Was she disrupting her usual routine to drive her crazy?  Was she distancing herself because she didn’t want this? 

Galinda had sought out her answer and gotten the message loud and clear at the library.  Elphaba Thropp wanted her.  She could feel it in the way Elphaba’s gaze darkened in arousal.  She could feel it in the way Elphaba’s hands touched and held her.  She could feel it in the way Elphaba’s mouth had met hers, hungry and aching for more. 

Not here.  Not here.

She could still hear the hoarseness of her voice.  The raspy breath that accompanied a pained denial of acting on their urges right there in the middle of the library. 

As she stripped off her blouse, she couldn’t help but wonder if Elphaba was walking around campus just as wet as she was. 

excerpt from chapter 9 of "Clandestinely Yours."

[elphabathroppupland]

Clandestinely Yours: Chapter 8

Chapter 8

Elphaba wasn’t sure how long she’d soaked in the bath, but by the time she was out and dressed, Galinda was gone.  She wasn’t sure if she felt relieved or disappointed, but what she did know was that she was hungry.

She passed by a mirror on her way to gather her books, and she noticed the tiny bruises alongside her neck.  She stopped in her tracks and leaned forward, hand flying to her neck, fingertips gently tracing over the small but obvious marks.  Her jaw fell open in a gasp.

She gave me hickeys?!

She tugged at the collar of her button down shirt, praying to whatever divine power might be paying attention to her post-sex moment of mortification that nobody would notice that Galinda had marked her so…deliberately.  The mark on her thigh was no problem.  She’d spent a good ten minutes in the bath admiring it and thinking of the way Galinda’s mouth and tongue and teeth had felt on her skin.  It was something private for her.  For them.  But these were very public.

Not that she hadn’t gifted Galinda with her own little marks, but she also knew Galinda Upland of the Upper Uplands could hide anything with a bit of makeup and a fashionable scarf. 

Elphaba groaned softly and considered stealing one of those scarves, but the only thing that would stand out more than a couple of small love bites on her neck was her wearing a wildly out of character pink scarf.  No, that wouldn’t do.

So, she decided the collar of her shirt would have to do the job well enough. 

She was used to people either staring at her or avoiding looking at her completely, and today, she was hoping for the latter. 

Unfortunately, luck was not on her side that morning.  The moment she stepped into the dining hall, she was subjected to the usual stares and whispers.  She bit back a smirk and wondered if these people even knew how obvious they were being, staring at her, covering their mouth and whispering as if they were all five years old and nobody knew how to be discreet.

With a heavy sigh, she grabbed what she wanted for breakfast and settled down at a table in the far corner of the hall.  She opened up a book and ate slowly as she tried to focus on the words on the pages of her book.  She found herself reading the same line three different times without absorbing and Oz-damned thing before she gave up, closed her book and let her gaze wander about the room to the other students who’d already forgotten her presence and were wrapped up in talking and laughing amongst themselves so easily. 

When the door to the dining hall opened again and her blonde roommate strolled in looking perfectly put together, she sat up in her seat.  She watched as several students clamored to make room for her, to offer up their chairs, to get even a passing smile from the beauty as she walked over to grab a tray for her breakfast. 

It was fascinating, really, the way people reacted so differently to Galinda.  It was as if the powers Galinda possessed were all in how people paid attention and fell over themselves to try to please her.  She had a captive audience wherever she went, and honestly, Elphaba understood it.  She was…warm.  Insufferable and infuriating at times, but warm nevertheless.  And Elphaba had experienced just a portion of that in the way Galinda had prepared a bath for her and had shown such care for her that morning. 

It was confusifying and made Elphaba’s heartbeat stutter in her chest.  Still, she watched Galinda move about the room, her hair tossed over her shoulders in a way that hid the little marks Elphaba had left on her.  When her back was to the room, the smile on her face faltered just a little.  Her gaze lifted, and she looked about the room.  She was searching.  And Elphaba held her breath, waiting for those brown eyes to lock on hers.  But Galinda was quickly distracted by Boq Woodsman who came up to her and said something to her that Elphaba couldn’t hear over the din of the other students’ chattering. 

She watched Boq reach for Galinda’s tray, only for Galinda to smile—dimple dimpling—and shake her head politely.  She said something to him, and he turned to leave with equal parts defeat and hope for tomorrow etched in his features.  Elphaba cringed from the secondhand embarrassment, but her gaze focused in on Galinda who turned back to grab a muffin off of the buffet.  Galinda’s gaze lifted again.  She looked around, and Elphaba wondered if she could sense her looking at her. 

The blonde lifted her hand to her chest, glossy lips parting in a soft gasp.  Her eyelids fluttered for a moment, and she discreetly fanned her face.

Elphaba’s jaw tensed.  What was her pretty roommate thinking about?  A little half-smile lifted on Elphaba’s lips, and she felt her own face flushing with heat the longer she looked at her.

It was truly astoundifying.  The fact that neither of them could usually stand to be around the other for more than a few minutes wasn’t lost on Elphaba.  But now, it seemed, even when they were apart, they were thinking of one another.  Only now, the frustration and irritation that Elphaba had once felt for Galinda Upland had been replaced by a frustration of an entirely different nature.  Now she could still practically taste Galinda’s skin and lips on her tongue. She could still feel Galinda’s hands on her, her fingers in her, her mouth between her legs.  She shivered at the memory of sucking her own finger into her mouth and tasting what she’d done, how she’d made Galinda fall apart the way she had. 

And now there was a rush of heat beneath her skin, the hurried pulse shooting sparks through her nerve endings, straight to her core.  Her nipples strained against her bra at the mere memory of Galinda’s mouth on them, sucking and teasing them mercilessly.

As Galinda turned around once again, scanning the room for something—no, someone—she was flagged over by Shenshen and Pfannee.  She flipped her hair over her shoulders and crossed the room to join them.  Elphaba watched her sit and poke at her food and look around from time while Shenshen and Pfannee talked animatedly about something they clearly found to be amusing.  But Elphaba could see that Galinda was barely even present in the conversation.  She was lost in thought.  One hand rested in her lap, fingers skimming over the outside of her bare thigh while her other hand held the muffin she barely nibbled at.  She was distracted, and Elphaba couldn’t help but let her gaze wander up from her high heeled shoe, over her bare, pale calf and up her gorgeous thigh that Elphaba couldn’t help but think about tasting if Galinda would let her.  Marking her the way Galinda had marked her.  Tasting her the way Galinda had tasted her. 

Her clit throbbed, and she jolted in her seat, tray clattering at the sudden movement.  A few people turned to look curiously in her direction.  There were the stares and whispers again.  And her face was hot.  She dragged her gaze back to Galinda just in time to see her look over her shoulder.  Brown eyes met green, and Galinda’s eyes went wide. 

Elphaba slipped out of her seat, grabbed her books and tucked them under one arm.  She took her tray over and dumped the contents in the trash before walking out of the dining hall, feeling the eyes of one Galinda Upland following her as she walked.  As she stepped outside to breathe in the fresh air and calm her racing heart, she made the mistake of turning as the door shut behind her just in time to meet Galinda’s gaze.  The heat behind those eyes made Elphaba’s knees shake, and she took off toward her first class, hoping to Oz that she could get through this day without spontaneously combusting.

*~*~*~*~*

Elphaba had an hour to calm down before seeing Galinda again, and by the time she got to Dr. Dillamond’s class, she was completely unsurprised to see Galinda sitting across the room with Pfannee on one side of her and Shenshen directly behind her.  Curiously, there was a spot next to Galinda that was empty, save for Galinda’s stack of books occupying the space.  Elphaba’s gaze locked on Galinda’s the moment she stepped into the room.  Galinda sat up straight in her seat, mouth parting slightly as if she wanted to extend an invitation but wasn’t certain she should.  Elphaba simply chose her usual seat across the room.

It wasn’t long before Pfannee and Shenshen turned their amusement toward Elphaba, remarking on how she might want to start wearing colors that would distract from the brightness of her skin.  When the first round of giggles started, Galinda had leveled a stare at Pfannee that had him shutting up and then nudging Shenshen’s leg with his shoulder.  Elphaba cocked her  head to the side, curiously entertained by this sudden turn of events.  But before Galinda had a chance to explain herself, Dr. Dillamond arrived and class began.    

Elphaba took a few deep breaths and focused all of her attention to listening to Dr. Dillamond. She fought each distracting sigh from Galinda across the room valiantly, propping her chin in her hand and narrowing her eyes, leaning forward even to hear the professor more clearly.  However, her gaze would occasionally wander to the blonde.  At first, Galinda was just staring, her eyes narrowed slightly in quiet study.  Then Galinda’s legs parted just enough that Elphaba’s imagine began to run wild.  Next, Galinda was crossing her legs and tapping her pen to her glossy lips.  Then she was gently biting the tip between her front and bottom teeth.  And then her tongue flicked out to not only wet her lips but flick over the top of the pen in a way that sent a jolt straight to her clit. 

Elphaba sat up straight in her seat and crossed her legs.  Tightly. 

The smirk on Galinda’s lips was not lost on Elphaba, and she smirked back at her before turning her attention back to her book. 

Fifty minutes of class felt like three hours of pure, unadulterated agony.  And Elphaba was thankful when Pfannee stopped Galinda, probably to ask her why she hadn’t joined in their favorite game of Taunt the Green Girl, and she made her escape to her next class. 

She decided to switch things up at her usual lunch time.  She swung by the dining hall between classes and ate something light, so when the time came that she normally settled down for lunch, she chose to go to her favorite quiet place in the library instead. 

Part of her was looking forward to the quiet.  Another part of her was silently hoping Galinda would come looking for her, because after all, it wouldn’t be like Elphaba to not show up to the dining hall for lunch.  They never ate together, but Galinda always noticed her presence, however irritating that might have been for her. 

And much to Elphaba’s delight, she heard the click of the blonde’s heels on the floor before she saw her.  She looked around, finding herself alone save for the disembodied click click click heading in her direction.  She ducked between the stacks in the rare book section again, a fond memory playing on repeat in her head of the kiss they’d shared there just yesterday. 

She braced herself, her body positively thrumming with excitement as she waited for Galinda to appear.  But the clicking stopped.  Elphaba’s heart stuttered in her chest, and she felt like the wind got knocked out of her chest. 

She paused between the stacks, pressing her hand against one shelf as the familiar scent of vanilla wafted from two aisles down.  She took a few steadying breaths, closed her eyes and desperately tried to force out the image of Galinda looking up at her with those big brown eyes as she feasted between her thighs like a woman starved.  Her thighs twitched at the memory of Galinda’s hands gripping them as she thrust her tongue inside, and Elphaba’s hand flew to her stomach as her body jolted with desire. 

There was no escaping those memories.  They were burned in her memory, threaded into her nerves, etched in her bones.  She was embarrassingly wet just thinking about what Galinda had done to her—Oz—what she could do to her without even touching her. 

She startled when a flash of blonde hair whipped past her aisle and disappeared into the stacks behind her.  She swallowed hard.  Did Galinda know she was there?  Of course she did.  Why else would she be at the library at this time of day when she could be sitting at the dining hall with her friends.  But, judging from her behavior in Dr. Dillamond’s class, Elphaba had the sneaking suspicion that food was the last thing the blonde was hungry for. 

She stayed put.  Waited.  Listened.  She heard that delicious frustrated sigh from behind her in the stacks, and she couldn’t help the smirk that tugged at her lips.  It was good to know that she wasn’t the only one that couldn’t stop thinking about this.  And she had to admit that this was a lot more fun than constantly bickering.  Not that that couldn’t be fun, too.  She’d enjoyed the back and forth and riling Galinda up.  Maybe it wasn’t healthy, but it had led to indescribable pleasure, and Elphaba had never felt so desired before.

Elphaba took a deep breath and decided that she’d had enough of whatever little fishing game Galinda was playing in the stacks.  She took the bait.  She couldn’t help herself.

She turned into the next row of stacks, and there she was.  Galinda Upland, standing on her tip toes, heels rising out of the backs of her high-heeled shoes, stretching up to reach a book on the top shelf.  Her skirt was impossibly high, so high in fact that a light draft would have shown off exactly what she was wearing underneath.    

Elphaba stepped up behind her, reaching up to grab the same book, fingers brushing over the back of Galinda’s hand.  She didn’t startle, because of course she knew Elphaba would give in to this game she was playing. 

Elphaba easily reached the book, pulling it out so Galinda could grab it with ease.

“You realize we’re the same height,” Elphaba smirked, watching Galinda still for a moment.  Her warm breath puffed against Galinda’s hair, and the blonde trembled. 

“Well, your heels are taller than mine,” Galinda pointed out, voice steady but pinched in an attempt to sound nonchalant.  She turned, gaze flickering on Elphaba’s face for only an instant before looking down between them.  “Your fashion sense may be lacking, but you have great taste in footwear.”  Her brown eyes flicked back up to Elphaba’s gaze, and her tongue darted out to wet her glossy pink lips.  Elphaba’s eyes flicked down to the book in Galinda’s hand.  She bit the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing.  Galinda could see her roommates’s face twitch as she fought back a laugh.  “What’s so funny, Elphaba Thropp?”

“An In Depth Study of the Effects of Transfiguration and Performative Magic on the Menopausal Libido.  Aren’t you getting a little ahead of yourself?”  Galinda’s eyes went wide, and she glanced down at the book in her hand.  Her mouth fell open, but she snapped it shut immediately.  She looked up, put her shoulders back and tried to look confident despite the bright red flush of embarrassment coloring her cheeks.

“I’m checking it out for a friend.”

“Oh,” Elphaba said slowly, nodding as she watched Galinda try not to squirm.  “Which friend?”

“That’s none of your business.  Besides, there’s nothing wrong with educating myself on the future.  I do intend to be a sorceress one day.”

“Galinda, I’ve never seen you so much as boil water, let alone perform magic.”  Her voice was flat but amusement wavered along the edges.  Galinda glared at her.

“How dare you?!  You think you’re better than me because you have power you can’t control?”

“I didn’t say that,” Elphaba pointed out. “But I don’t think that just anyone can be a sorceress.  Either you have power or you don’t.  And it’s ok if you don’t.”

“It is not!”

“Why not?”

“Because I want it!” Galinda huffed.  Elphaba sighed, and Galinda scoffed, shoving the book at her.  Elphaba smirked and reached up to place the book back where it belonged. 

“I hate to tell you this, but you can’t always get what you want.”  Galinda glared at her again, smoothing her hands down the front of her dress.  She took a step toward Elphaba, a fire behind her eyes that tickled every nerve ending Elphaba possessed. 

“Unacceptable,” Galinda bit out.  She put her hands on her hips sternly, and Elphaba felt her clit jump. 

Fuck.

“Have you always been this spoiled?” Elphaba asked, cocking her head to the side.

“Yes,” Galinda huffed.  Elphaba chuckled, and the blonde made a face.  “I was taught that when you want something badly enough, you stop at nothing to get it.”

She took a step toward the blonde, watching as Galinda’s lips parted and the pinched, annoyed look on her face softened into something altogether different. 

“Well then,” Elphaba murmured, hand reaching out to brush a strand of blonde hair over Galinda’s shoulder, “I hope you get everything you want.” Elphaba’s eyes darkened when she saw Galinda’s gaze flick down toward her lips.  Those big brown eyes widened when Elphaba’s tongue darted out to wet her lips slowly. 

Elphaba wasn’t sure what had come over her, but her body seemed to have a mind of its own when it came to Galinda Upland.  And she certainly wasn’t complaining.    

It came as a surprise to neither one of them when in the next moment, Galinda’s hands were on Elphaba’s waist, pushing her back against the bookshelves and kissing her as if her very life depended on it. 

Elphaba’s hands were immediately on her face, brushing down her neck and over her shoulders, arms curling around her middle and pulling her in closer.  The softness of Galinda’s lips matched with the urgency of her tongue slipping between Elphaba’s lips had Elphaba’s head swimming in the most delicious way.

“Elphie,” she murmured between kisses.  A faint noise escaped Elphaba’s throat, something between a question and a moan.  “Let’s go home.”  The hum of Elphaba’s muffled laugh teased Galinda’s lips.

“We have class,” Elphaba pointed out before sliding her tongue against Galinda’s. 

“Skip it,” Galinda murmured, bringing her hand up to palm Elphaba’s breast, squeezing it just firmly enough to make her shudder. 

“Mmm,” Elphaba chuckled.  “I’ve never skipped a class in my life.”

“Color me surprised,” Galinda sighed, threading her fingers into Elphaba’s braids.  “Elphie, please.”  She reached for Elphaba’s hand, bringing it around to her ass.  Elphaba gave her a little squeeze, and Galinda’s teeth scraped against her bottom lip, giving it a little nip and a tug.  “Just this once?  I’m so wet, Elphie.”  Elphaba’s knees almost buckled, and she stumbled back against the bookshelf, breathing heavily as Galinda advanced on her again, hands trialing down her waist and dragging her skirt up so pale fingers to tease over green thighs. 

“Fuck,” Elphaba panted, pressing forward and claiming Galinda’s mouth in a wet kiss.  “Not here.  Not here.” 

“Come home,” Galinda begged, sucking Elphaba’s bottom lip between her teeth again.  “Don’t keep me waiting.”  She pulled back then, smoothing her hands over her rumbled dress.  Elphaba leaned back against the bookshelves, panting and wanting.  Galinda’s gaze stilled on hers for a lingering moment, and Elphaba held her breath until the blonde turned on her heels and walked away. 

Elphaba was left alone with nothing but the rush of hot blood through her veins, a thundering heartbeat and a throbbing core that made thinking impossible.  All she could hear was Galinda’s voice, strained with desire, begging for what they both so desperately needed. 

Come home.  Don’t keep me waiting.

[elphabathroppupland]

Love Bites

Elphaba wasn’t sure how long she’d soaked in the bath, but by the time she was out and dressed, Galinda was gone.  She wasn’t sure if she felt relieved or disappointed, but what she did know was that she was hungry.

She passed by a mirror on her way to gather her books, and she noticed the tiny bruises alongside her neck.  She stopped in her tracks and leaned forward, hand flying to her neck, fingertips gently tracing over the small but obvious marks.  Her jaw fell open in a gasp.

She gave me hickeys?!

She tugged at the collar of her button down shirt, praying to whatever divine power might be paying attention to her post-sex moment of mortification that nobody would notice that Galinda had marked her so…deliberately.  The mark on her thigh was no problem.  She’d spent a good ten minutes in the bath admiring it and thinking of the way Galinda’s mouth and tongue and teeth had felt on her skin.  It was something private for her.  For them.  But these were very public.

Not that she hadn’t gifted Galinda with her own little marks, but she also knew Galinda Upland of the Upper Uplands could hide anything with a bit of makeup and a fashionable scarf.

excerpt from chapter 8 of "Clandestinely Yours."

[elphabathroppupland]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Wicked (Movie 2024) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Elphaba Thropp/Galinda Upland Characters: Galinda Upland, Elphaba Thropp Additional Tags: Roommates, Modern Era, Yearning, Feelings Realization, Fluff, First Kiss, Gelphie Summary:

Galinda was never one to not reach out if she was going to be late, so Elphaba wasn’t unreasonable for worrying.

[elphabathroppupland]

Look at You: Chapter 46

Chapter 46

“Elphie, come on!”  Galinda took off down the narrow row between perfectly planted poppies, white on one side, pink on the other.  She glanced over her shoulder just in time to see Elphaba reaching her hand out as she raced to catch up with her.  Galinda laughed loudly, more freely than she could ever remember doing, and she doubled over, clutching her stomach as Elphaba caught up to her, wrapping her arms around her from behind.  “That’s not fair!”

“What’s not fair, my sweet?” Elphaba asked with a chuckle, lifting Galinda up just an inch off the ground before planting her feet safely back in the soft soil.  Galinda spun around, wrapping her arms around Elphaba’s neck. She cocked her head to the side, laughter still glimmering in her eyes.

“You weren’t supposed to catch me.”  Galinda’s lower lip poked out in a pretend pout, and Elphaba grinned, leaning in to kiss it. 

“I wasn’t?  Weren’t you the one that that said you’d get there before me?”

“Well, you were supposed to let me win,” Galinda pointed out, batting her eyelashes. 

“Oh, see, you weren’t clear with the rules of the game,” the older witch smirked.  “How was I to know?”  She glanced over Galinda’s shoulder with a glint of mischief in her eyes.  “Besides, we aren’t there yet, so maybe you’d better…run!”  And she was off, ducking out from under Galinda’s arms and rushing down the poppy rows toward the tall apple tree at the edge of the field.  Galinda gasped at her trick and turned with her hands on her hips.

“Elphaba Thropp, that’s cheating!”

“It’s just cheating to you because I’m winning!” Elphaba called back.  And off they ran toward the edge of the poppy field, the apple tree that was once a small speck on the horizon looming taller and taller the closer they came.  Elphaba had told Galinda about this apple tree and how it produced the sweetest apples in Munchkinland.  It was along a dirt road, but crossing through the poppy field was a shortcut all the kids took when they wanted to pluck an apple for a treat.

Galinda had asked Elphaba to take her there, because she wanted to pick some apples to take back to Shiz and some for Dulcibear as a thank you for raising her soulmate to be the amazing woman she’d become.  And they’d kissed on the side of the road, smiling and laughing together.  Somehow, that had turned into a race for Galinda, and Elphaba had happily indulged her in her need for play.

Elphaba reached the tree first, but Galinda was close behind, empty apple basket swinging in hand.  She held her stomach and caught her breath for only a moment before looking up into the branches and searching for the good apples.  One caught her eye, just out of reach, and she concentrated for just a moment before she was levitating off the ground.  She stretched her fingers out, lifting less than a foot off the soft grass, and Galinda stopped in her tracks when she saw what Elphaba had done.  Elphaba plucked one perfect red apple from the tree and came back down, holding it out proudly in front of herself.

“For you, my sweet,” she announced, watching Galinda step toward her with wide eyes. 

“You didn’t even have to think about that, did you?” she asked, pale fingers wrapping around the fruit Elphaba had chosen for her. 

“It’s getting easier, I’ll admit.”  The awe in Galinda’s eyes didn’t go unnoticed to her.  She stepped forward and lifted Galinda’s hand that  held the apple.  “Try it.”  Galinda brought the apple to her mouth and took a bite, a satisfying crunch filling the air.  A trickle of juice dribbled down her chin, and her eyes went wide.  She lifted her other hand to wipe it away, but Elphaba was quick to lean in and l trail her tongue up the trail of juice before pressing a light kiss to Galinda’s lips.  A satisfied moan fell against Galinda’s glossy pink lips.  “Mmm, just as sweet as I remember.”  Galinda blushed deeply.  “What do you think?”

Galinda swallowed her bite of apple and chuckled.

“Think?  How am I supposed to think when you’re looking at me like that?”

“Like what?” Elphaba asked, cocking her head to the side, lips curling into a smile that told Galinda she knew exactly how she was looking at her.

“Elphaba Thropp, if you keep looking at me like that, I’m going to be tempted to do things that would bring a scandal to both of our families.”

“The Thropp’s are no stranger to scandals.  I think I’m willing to take the chance.”  She rested her hands on Galinda’s hips. 

“I would not like to explain to Momsie and Popsicle why I was thrown in jail for public indecency,” Galinda smirked, taking another bite of apple.

“What public?  I don’t see anyone around, do you?”  Elphaba bit her bottom lip and quirked an eyebrow.  Galinda just blushed deeply and squirmed out of Elphaba’s grasp, moving around to the other side of the tree and leaning gently against it, being careful not to snag her dress on the bark.  Elphaba moved around to stand beside her.

“It really is beautiful here, Elphie,” Galinda sighed, reaching out to take Elphaba’s hand in hers.  She linked their fingers together, and Elphaba gave her hand a squeeze.  “I can’t wait to show you Gillikin.  But I think it’s far more beautiful here.”

“It is beautiful,” Elphaba agreed.  “But this isn’t home.  Not anymore.  If it wasn’t for Dulcibear, I don’t think I’d give this place a second thought.”  She smiled fondly, one hand fidgeting with the side of her skirt.  “I’m glad you’re here.”

“Me too,” Galinda smiled, taking another bite of her apple and offering it out to Elphaba who leaned in for a bite. 

They stood together for a long while, enjoying the breeze that swayed the poppies back and forth in a gentle dance.  They passed the apple back and forth until nothing was left but the core, and then they began to pick apples to fill the basket. 

Soon, they were making their way back through the poppy field in the direction of Dulcibear’s cottage, hand in hand.  Elphaba carried the heavy basket in her free hand, and Galinda went on and on about the beautiful colors of the flowers and how perfect the weather was. 

She was happy.  There was a lightness to her voice that made Elphaba’s heart sing.  As they walked, Elphaba imagined waking up with her every morning for the rest of their lives, cuddling together until the last possible second, Galinda going on and on about her dreams in vivid detail.  And she’d relish it in quiet patience, stroking a thumb lovingly over a pale, slender arm, offering soft chuckles and squeezes in encouragement to keep going.  It was a funny thing, honestly, how Galinda’s voice had become one of her favorite sounds.

“You’re very quiet,” Galinda said with a grin, breaking Elphaba out of her thoughts. 

“Hmm?”

“What were you thinking about just now?” Galinda asked, squeezing her hand.  Elphaba smiled and shrugged one shoulder. 

“Nothing much,” Elphaba offered with a coy smile.  Galinda eyed her for a moment and rubbed her thumb over the back of her hand before reaching out with her other hand and gently brushing her fingertips over the tops of the brightly colored poppies.  Elphaba watched as the sunlight lit up her blonde locks and kissed a golden hue to her pale skin.  When she smiled, her eyes reflected the golden rays, and somehow, she’d never looked more beautiful.

Without warning, Elphaba leaned down to place the basket of apples on the ground.  She straightened and turned to Galinda, green eyes meeting brown. 

“Elphie?”

Elphaba reached into her bag that was slung across her body and draped over one shoulder.  She fished around for only a moment before finding her mother’s ring.  She pulled it out and wordlessly slipped it onto Galinda’s finger.  The blonde gasped softly and held her hand out.

“Elphie, when did you…”

“It was my mother’s.  She asked Dulcibear to hold it for me.” she murmured softly.  “Today, Dulcibear gave it to me, and I couldn’t think of anyone who’d take better care of it than my wife.”  Galinda’s eyes welled with tears at the word wife and the sentiment behind the gift, and she held her hand up, admiring the dainty band and delicate jewels. 

“I’m honored,” she whispered.  She lowered her hand and lifted her gaze to meet Elphaba’s soulful green eyes.  “I love you.”

“I love you,” Elphaba echoed, leaning in to press her lips against Galinda’s.  “C’mon.  Let’s get back.”  She reached down for the basket again, took Galinda’s hand in her free one, and together, they started back to the cottage.

[elphabathroppupland]

Rules of the Game

“Elphie, come on!”  Galinda took off down the narrow row between perfectly planted poppies, white on one side, pink on the other.  She glanced over her shoulder just in time to see Elphaba reaching her hand out as she raced to catch up with her.  Galinda laughed loudly, more freely than she could ever remember doing, and she doubled over, clutching her stomach as Elphaba caught up to her, wrapping her arms around her from behind.  “That’s not fair!”

“What’s not fair, my sweet?” Elphaba asked with a chuckle, lifting Galinda up just an inch off the ground before planting her feet safely back in the soft soil.  Galinda spun around, wrapping her arms around Elphaba’s neck. She cocked her head to the side, laughter still glimmering in her eyes.

“You weren’t supposed to catch me.”  Galinda’s lower lip poked out in a pretend pout, and Elphaba grinned, leaning in to kiss it. 

“I wasn’t?  Weren’t you the one that that said you’d get there before me?”

“Well, you were supposed to let me win,” Galinda pointed out, batting her eyelashes. 

“Oh, see, you weren’t clear with the rules of the game,” the older witch smirked.  “How was I to know?”  She glanced over Galinda’s shoulder with a glint of mischief in her eyes.  “Besides, we aren’t there yet, so maybe you’d better…run!”  And she was off, ducking out from under Galinda’s arms and rushing down the poppy rows toward the tall apple tree at the edge of the field.  Galinda gasped at her trick and turned with her hands on her hips.

“Elphaba Thropp, that’s cheating!”

excerpt from chapter 46 of "Look at You"

[elphabathroppupland]

Clandestinely Yours: Chapter 7

Chapter 7

Galinda Upland had never made a habit of letting a lover sleep in her bed before.  She’d always liked her space to sprawl out in bed, and having a warm body next to her always made her feel like she had to lie still.  She’d always found it hard to sleep next to someone.

When she roused from sleep, she blinked into the morning light and felt a warm hand gently shift against her bare stomach.  She groaned softly and rubbed the sleep from her eyes, and when she finally focused on the situation she’d woken up to, she saw slender green fingers resting low on her belly.  Elphaba was sleeping heavily, legs tangled with Galinda’s, body turned toward Galinda’s, face buried against a pale shoulder.  Galinda couldn’t help the tender smile as she watched Elphaba sleep.

She’d never seen her so still before.  So peaceful.  She was pretty certain she’d never seen her so relaxed, as if all the tension and anxiety she carried around with her had melted away. 

She was truly beautiful.  Galinda couldn’t deny that.  Her hand was impossibly soft against Galinda’s stomach, and Galinda found that her body was waking up in more ways than one.  She turned ever so gently onto her side, propping her head in her hand, watching Elphaba’s head gently fall back onto the pillow.  Her hand fell from Galinda’s stomach, now resting comfortably on the mattress dangerously close to Galinda’s thigh.

She thought back to last night, to when she’d decided that she was going to make up for Elphaba’s not so stellar first time and show her what good could be like.  At least, she hoped it’d been good.  Elphaba had certainly seemed to be enjoying herself.

Galinda’s free hand moved to gently push a few stray braids out of Elphaba’s face.  When she moved them back, she noticed the small bruises on Elphaba’s neck.  She blushed at the memory.  She’d enjoyed herself thoroughly, marking Elphaba with little love bites that she realized that in the bright light of day would probably mortify her green roommate.  But the damage was done, and Galinda was instantly wet thinking of the sounds Elphaba had made when she’d marked her, when she’d teased her, when she’d sucked and licked every bit of her and made her fall apart against the bed. 

Elphaba’s shoulders rose and fell heavily with a sleepy sigh.  Galinda’s eyes widened just a little, and she watched her roommate stir beside her.  She lay very still, watching every flex of a finger, every flutter of eyelids, every scrunching of a nose as Elphaba began to come into consciousness.  She didn’t dare move.  Her breaths were shallow.  She waited.

Elphaba rolled onto her back and rubbed her hands over her face, moaning softly as her toes pointed toward the wall, flexing with a morning stretch before she relaxed and brought her hands down to rest on her stomach.  Her bare stomach.  She opened her eyes slowly to stare up at the ceiling.  Galinda let a slow breath out through her nose. 

No sudden movements.

Her gaze couldn’t help but wander down to where Elphaba’s hands rested against her stomach.  She imagined those slender green fingers touching her the way she’d touched Elphaba last night.  Oh, and she just knew it would be good.  Despite a lack of experience, the way Elphaba gripped onto her and held her told her all she needed to know.  Elphaba could work miracles with those hands, and Galinda was desperate to witness one.

Elphaba’s breath hitched in her chest, and she sat up with a gasp, hands gripping at the rumpled sheets.  She looked around, eyes wide, lips parted as she drew in a sharp breath and let the events of the previous nights settle into the forefront of her memory. 

Galinda sat up slowly next to her, hand gently reaching out for her but landing just an inch from her bare thigh.  Elphaba glanced down at her pale hand and then up at her face, blinking once, twice, three times.  She shook her head, and Galinda offered a weak smile.

“Good morning,” she said slowly.  She watched Elphaba looked down at her naked form and suddenly startle.  “Hey, you’re ok.  It’s alright.”

“What—what time is it?” Elphaba asked quickly, glancing toward the clock and squinting, unable to read the hands without her glasses.  She didn’t wait for an answer.  She turned her back to Galinda and swung her legs over the side of the bed.  Galinda flinched and reached out as if to touch her, but she lowered her hand back to the bed.  Elphaba’s words last night were now echoing in her head.

“We aren’t friends.” 

And she was right.  They weren’t friends, and maybe they never would be.  But Galinda’s body was already responsive, nipples hardening as she mapped out the plane of Elphaba’s back, memorizing the placement of a single dark freckle in the center of her back to the left of her spine. 

“It’s early,” Galinda offered quietly, flushing as the words left her lips in a hoarse whisper.  “We have some time.  We can talk, maybe.”  Her brows raised in anticipation, and she watched Elphaba’s shoulders straighten.  “We don’t have to talk, of course.  We don’t have to do anything you don’t want.  I’m sure you want to clean up.”  Galinda tugged at the sheets a little, pulling them up over her lap.  “Elphie?”  She gently bit her bottom lip and watched as Elphaba’s shoulders relaxed a little. 

She watched carefully as Elphaba looked up toward the ceiling for a moment, hand anxiously coming up to her neck.  Galinda watched her other hand grip the edge of the bed.  She watched her turn her head.  When those green eyes met hers, Galinda shivered.  Elphaba’s gaze flickered briefly from her eyes to her lips and then down over her bare breasts.  Her pupils were wide and dark, and Galinda found herself holding her breath. 

Please don’t go. 

Elphaba licked her lips, and Galinda’s heart fluttered in her chest.  She sat still, waiting for Elphaba to make the move. 

Stay or go. Please stay.

Elphaba turned then, pressing the heels of her hands into the mattress before falling over Galinda on the bed.  Galinda gasped softly and let out a little squeal when Elphaba crawled over her, nose brushing nose until Elphaba’s lips claimed hers in a needy kiss.  Galinda’s hands trailed up Elphaba’s back, one hand gently moving over the back of her neck, fingertips lightly grazing the skin there until Elphaba was moaning into her mouth. 

“Elphie,” Galinda whispered, one hand moving down over her ass and giving it a little squeeze.  She tugged at Elphaba’s bottom lip with her teeth, grinning coyly when Elphaba pulled back to stare down into her eyes.  The hint of a smile played on green lips, and Galinda felt a warmth wrap around her heart. 

Maybe they weren’t friends yet, but whatever this was that they had going on felt pretty Oz damned good.

Galinda gripped Elphaba’s hips, silently urging her to press down against her.  Elphaba’s mouth was on Galinda’s neck now as she eased down flush against the blonde, pelvis to pelvis. 

“Oh, Elphie,” Galinda gasped.  “Yes, that feels good.”  Elphaba’s lips brushed against her collarbone, teeth nipping at flushed skin, tongue soothing over the gentle scrapes until Galinda’s fingers were gripping her braids.  “Elphie, oh Oz.”  Galinda arched her neck and slid her hand down between them, fingers grazing over damp flesh as she tugged the sheet down her hips.  Elphaba raised up a little, gasping softly when she felt Galinda’s fingers curl around her arm.  “Touch me.  Please?”  Elphaba swallowed hard, and she let Galinda guide her hand up to her breast.  She gave it a gentle, experimental squeeze before grazing the pad of her thumb over one hard nipple.  Galinda’s head fell back against the pillow, and she arched her back to push herself harder against Elphaba’s hand. 

Galinda’s hand was curling at the back of Elphaba’s neck now, tugging her back down for another kiss. She groaned when Elphaba rolled her nipple gentle between her thumb and forefinger and let out a shuddering moan.

“Yes, Elphie.  Please.  Harder.”  Elphaba lifted her head then, staring down at the blonde who was writhing underneath her, and she gave her nipple a harder pinch.  Galinda’s mouth fell open in a groan. 

Galinda realized, much to her delight, this must have bolstered Elphaba’s confidence, because the next thing she knew, Elphaba’s lips were wrapped around one nipple, tugging and sucking.  And then her teeth scraped over it. 

Galinda’s thighs were damp now, and she squeezed them together, craving to be touched, craving everything Elphaba was willing to give. 

She drew her leg up, curling it over Elphaba’s thigh.  She closed her eyes and reveled in the feel of Elphaba’s mouth, hot and wet against her breast.  Elphaba’s hands were trembling when she scooted down the bed, kissing between Galinda’s breasts and then down to her stomach.  Galinda lifted her head slowly and stared down at her, watching as Elphaba hesitated.  Galinda reached down, fingers curling against Elphaba’s wrist again.  Elphaba’s head jerked up, green eyes wild and curious as she stared at Galinda. 

“I want you to,” Galinda moaned.  “Please…”  Elphaba leaned in, burying her face against Galinda’s stomach in a way that was both sweet and erotic at the same time.  Galinda’s mouth fell open in a soft moan, and she let go of Elphaba so she could push her hands into the mattress and prop herself up.  Elphaba’s hands moved down her waist and over her hips, and Galinda squeezed her eyes shut when those nails dug into her flesh.  She bit her bottom lip, moaning loudly and sliding one hand down between her breasts.  Elphaba lifted her head, watching studiously as Galinda’s hand slipped down her own stomach and down between her legs.  Pale fingers slipped against damp flesh, teasing over her own clit until her hips jerked against her hand.

Galinda forced her eyes open and smirked when she saw Elphaba staring at her hand, watching each flick of her fingers as if she was studying a great painter with their brush. 

“Have you ever touched yourself, Elphie?” Galinda asked softly.  Elphaba swallowed hard, dragging her gaze up to meet Galinda’s.  She nodded slowly, and Galinda let out a little huff of something between a moan and a laugh.  And then she quirked an eyebrow.  “Come here.”  She squirmed out from under Elphaba and stood at the side of the bed.  She motioned toward the headboard.  “Scoot.”  Elphaba stared at her for a moment, eyes darkening, but when Galinda patted the mattress, she scrambled up eagerly which made Galinda’s heart flutter in her chest.  “Sit back.”  Elphaba sat up in the bed, back against the headboard, and Galinda slid her hand gently up Elphaba’s ankle to her knee.  She gave her a little tap, and Elphaba’s legs spread for her.  Her own eyes darkened when she spotted the little love bite from last night, and she poked her lower lip out, trailing her fingertip over it, making Elphaba’s head roll back at the sensation.

“You wear it so well, Elphie,” she whispered, crawling onto the bed and positioning herself to sit between her legs.  Elphaba drew her knees up to give her more room, and Galinda leaned her back into Elphaba’s chest, blonde hair tickling against sensitive green nipples which made Elphaba shudder under her.  “Give me your hands.”  Elphaba curled her arms around Galinda’s waist, and the blonde smiled, chuckling softly.  “So eager.”  Elphaba snorted but let Galinda curl her fingers around both wrists. 

Galinda guided one of Elphaba’s hands to her breast and let go.  She leaned her head back against her lover’s shoulder and guided the other green hand down her stomach and between her legs.  She moaned softly at the first gentle touch of Elphaba’s fingers against her sensitive flesh. 

“Touch me how you touch yourself,” she whispered, angling her head back so she could nip at Elphaba’s jaw.  Elphaba groaned softly, closing her eyes as her fingers began to stroke her.  Galinda’s hips jolted, and Elphaba stilled.  “Don’t stop.  Please, Elphie.”  She smiled when Elphaba turned her face and met her with a needy kiss.  She sighed into it bringing one arm up behind Elphaba’s neck to pull her closer.  Elphaba’s hands began to work together, one at her breast, the other between her legs, fingertips slipping against Galinda’s clit and down lower to push against her opening. 

When she pressed there with two fingers, she took great care with her nails, making sure she didn’t hurt her, and Galinda thanked her with an appreciative whimper.  She broke the kiss then, resting her head back against Elphaba’s shoulder, stroking her arm up and down slowly.  She moved her hips, grinding back against Elphaba just enough that she had her muffling groans between gentle bites and kisses to her neck.  Galinda craned her neck, relishing the feel of Elphaba’s mouth on her and her fingers working steadily between her legs. 

Elphaba’s thumb swept over her clit, and she whimpered again, moving to grip Elphaba’s thigh, squeezing tightly as she clenched around her fingers. 

“Yes, Elphie.  That’s so good,” Galinda moaned.  “Right there.  Keep going…ahhhh—”  She bit back a cry when Elphaba inserted a third finger, gently pushing in until Galinda was tight around her.  “Elphie!” 

Elphaba teased and tugged at Galinda’s nipple before teasing the other one in the same mercilessly way.  Galinda shivered when she felt her nose against the back of her neck.  Knowing what Elphaba wanted, she reached up with one shaking hand and pulled her hair over one shoulder, exposing her flushed neck.  Immediately, she felt lips and tongue and teeth working over her skin, and Elphaba’s fingers were curling, just enough to get her attention.  She gasped and clenched her thighs around Elphaba’s wrist, and in moments, her body was shaking.  The coil burning low in her belly snapped, and Galinda let go, coming hard around Elphaba’s hand as she stroked and kissed her through it all.  And Galinda came apart in her arms, crying out, shoulders shaking until the last wave of pleasure faded into the blissful unknown.

And when Elphaba’s hand stilled and came to rest upon Galinda’s stomach, Galinda reached down boldly and brought Elphaba’s hand up.  She teased one fingertip with the blunt tip of her tongue before turning slightly in Elphaba’s arms. 

“Taste,” she whispered.  Elphaba’s eyes darkened, and she licked her lips before sucking her own finger into her mouth, tasting Galinda on her tongue.  She closed her eyes and made a show of sucking it clean to the last knuckle.  When she pulled her finger out, Galinda leaned in, claiming Elphaba’s mouth in a languid kiss, unwilling to let this moment go just yet.  She needed more, but she didn’t know how to say it.  She’d never been shy, but somehow, now?  Now she was terrified of losing this feeling—whatever it was—that sank into her bones in the arms of the last person she ever expected to need. 

Still, when she pulled back from the kiss, she licked her lips and glanced up at Elphaba’s face, trying to read her, trying to see into her thoughts.

We aren’t friends.  We aren’t friends.  We aren’t friends.

The last thing she wanted was Elphaba to startle away again like she almost had that morning.  The thought of it made her stomach twist into a knot, and she couldn’t bear that.  So, she took the initiative and slipped out from between Elphaba’s legs and climbed out of the bed.

She pulled a robe around herself and tied it snugly.  She noticed Elphaba watching her out of the corner of her eye and she couldn’t help but exaggerate the sway of her hips just a little on her way to the bathroom.

“Galinda?”

“Hmm?”  She turned to glance over her shoulder, eyes curious and wide.  Elphaba shifted nervously on the bed, hugging her legs to her chest.  “Yes, Elphie?”  Elphaba’s mouth opened and closed once.  Twice.  She was struggling to find words but settled on silence.  Galinda sighed softly and offered a soft smile in her direction.

“I’m drawing you a bath.  I thought that might feel good this morning.” 

“Oh,” Elphaba said slowly.  “Ok.  Thank you.”  Galinda turned and slipped into the bathroom.  She turned on the faucet, tested the temperature of the water and laid out everything she’d need for washing up on the seat of a chair she pulled up next to the tub.  She sat on the edge of the tub, glancing at her own reflection in the rippling water.  Her hair was a mess, and her lips were swollen from kisses, and it was hard to tell in the faint reflection, but she was pretty certain Elphaba had left a mark or two on her as well.  She didn’t mind at all.  In fact, she smiled as she trailed her fingers the water, watching it swirl and ripple as it filled the tub.

“Thank you.”  Galinda startled and turned to see Elphaba leaning against the doorway, naked and gorgeous.  Galinda was certain she wasn’t even trying to be sexy, but the way her hand rested on her jutted hip and her head cocked to the side painted a picture that Galinda was certain would be emblazoned in her mind for the remainder of the day. 

“O—of course,” she stuttered, caught off guard.  She turned off the water and stood, smoothing her hands over the front of her robe.  “I’ll give you your privacy.”  She felt silly the second the words left her lips, but Elphaba didn’t seem to notice.  She moved across the room and eased down into the water so elegantly that Galinda couldn’t help but watch.  She found herself staring as Elphaba relaxed with her head leaned back and her arms stretched over the sides.  The water covered her up to her chest, and Galinda found herself suddenly wanting to join her.

But that would simply be too much, wouldn’t it?  She sighed softly and left the room, leaving Elphaba to her privacy while she gathered her own things and retreated to the floor’s shared bathroom at the end of the hall of suites.  She hugged her fresh clothes to her chest and couldn’t help but feel a fresh ache settling there as her mind began to spin. 

What now?  What next?  What does this mean?

And as she slipped under the warm stream of water in the old shower stall, she scrubbed her hands over her face and tried to force herself to think of other things.  Anything but her insufferably beautiful roommate down the hall that had just given her the best orgasm she’d ever had.  Anything but that.

[elphabathroppupland]

No Sudden Movements

Galinda’s free hand moved to gently push a few stray braids out of Elphaba’s face.  When she moved them back, she noticed the small bruises on Elphaba’s neck.  She blushed at the memory.  She’d enjoyed herself thoroughly, marking Elphaba with little love bites that she realized that in the bright light of day would probably mortify her green roommate.  But the damage was done, and Galinda was instantly wet thinking of the sounds Elphaba had made when she’d marked her, when she’d teased her, when she’d sucked and licked every bit of her and made her fall apart against the bed. 

Elphaba’s shoulders rose and fell heavily with a sleepy sigh.  Galinda’s eyes widened just a little, and she watched her roommate stir beside her.  She lay very still, watching every flex of a finger, every flutter of eyelids, every scrunching of a nose as Elphaba began to come into consciousness.  She didn’t dare move.  Her breaths were shallow.  She waited.

Elphaba rolled onto her back and rubbed her hands over her face, moaning softly as her toes pointed toward the wall, flexing with a morning stretch before she relaxed and brought her hands down to rest on her stomach.  Her bare stomach.  She opened her eyes slowly to stare up at the ceiling.  Galinda let a slow breath out through her nose. 

No sudden movements.

excerpt from Chapter 7 of Clandestinely Yours

[elphabathroppupland]

Look at You: Chapter 45

Chapter 45

Galinda was nestled up against Elphaba on the uncomfortable wooden seat of the old train car.  Their arms were linked together, and Galinda’s sleepy head rested on Elphaba’s shoulder.  Elphaba stared out the window at the seemingly endless rows of brightly colored poppies that filled the fields. 

Elphaba gently bumped Galinda’s shoulder.  The blonde yawned and slowly lifted her head, opening her eyes and blinking slowly as the bright colors caught her eye. 

“Oh, Elphie,” she whispered.  “It’s so beautiful.”

“It is,” Elphaba agreed, placing her hand over Galinda’s.  But there was no nostalgia or whimsy in her voice.  There was no sense of calmness at going back to the place she grew up.  If anything, Elphaba’s voice was restrained and anxious.  Galinda leaned in to press a gentle kiss to her cheek.

“Are you ok?” she whispered. 

“I will be.  I’m just anxious to see Dulcibear.  I don’t know how I feel about…about everything else.  But I know I’ll feel better when I see her.”  Galinda’s gaze was comforting and sweet, and when the blonde brought her hand up to gently cup Elphaba’s cheek, she turned to face her.  Galinda rested their foreheads together and took slow, deep breaths.

“I’m here,” she promised.  “Just hold my hand.”  Elphaba nodded and took a deep breath before pulling back and leaning her head back against the worn velvet padding of the headrest. 

“You know, one of my earliest memories was when my mother was expecting Nessa.  She was resting a lot.  Father didn’t want me around, so Dulcibear kept me busy.  She’d take me out to the gardens or out for a walk in the woods.  I always felt safe with her.”  She smiled fondly.  “I was adventurous.”

“That doesn’t surprise me,” Galinda smiled. 

“Well, I decided one day I was going to climb a tree.  I wanted to know what the birds saw when they perched up on the top branches and looked down on the world.”  She laughed softly.  “I got too far ahead of Dulcibear, and she was calling for me.  By the time she got there, I was so far up.  It was probably only ten feet or so, but I was so small.  It felt like I’d climbed a mountain.”  She watched Galinda’s smile reach her sparkling eyes, and she squeezed her hand.  “Dulcibear stood up and reached for me as far as she could, but I was a little too far up.  I’d never seen her scared before.  I just looked down at her and said ‘it’s ok, Dulcibear.  You won’t let me get hurt.’”

“Aw, Elphie,” Galinda cooed, placing her hand against her own heart.  “What happened?”

“Well, I got hurt,” Elphaba chuckled.  Galinda’s brows furrowed in concern, her lower lip pouting out just a slight.  She cocked her head to the side and gave Elphaba’s knee a little rub.  “I lost my footing and started to fall.  I tore my dress and scraped my knee on the way down, but Dulcibear caught me.  I think that was the only time I ever saw her mad.  She looked me right in the eyes and told me to never trust that anyone can keep me safe, because bad things happen and we can’t always stop them from happening.”  She swallowed hard, eyes glittering at the memory.  She glanced to Galinda and offered a soft smile.  “That’s how I went through life, depending on myself alone.”  She shrugged her shoulders.  “I’m not sure that’s exactly what she had in mind, but I never met anybody else that made me feel safe like that.  Not until I met you.” 

Galinda’s arms were around her neck in an instant, hugging her fiercely.  Elphaba fell back in the seat, shoulders knocking against the window.  Galinda was practically in her lap, and she flushed deeply when the other passengers looked over at her.  But she didn’t mind much, because having Galinda holding her was the best feeling in the world. 

Elphaba’s hand rubbed Galinda’s back gently, and when the blonde loosened her grip on her fiancée, she pulled back a little.  The sight of tears in Galinda’s eyes took Elphaba’s breath away.  She raised her hand to graze against Galinda’s cheek and brushed a tear away with her thumb. 

“I love you so much, Elphie,” Galinda whispered.  Elphaba smiled at her and pulled her closer. 

“I love you, too.”

*~*~*~*~*

The train station was on the outskirts of the portion of the village Elphaba grew up in, so there was a short walk involved to get to Dulcibear’s cottage.  There were hushed whispers and shocked gasps from Munchkinlanders who recognized the governor’s oldest daughter.

Elphaba ignored them and arm in arm with Galinda, but she couldn’t help but feel a knot of anxiety tightening in her chest at the idea of word getting back to her father that she’d arrived.  She didn’t expect he’d be holding a parade in her honor or anything, but she did know him well enough to know that he wouldn’t want to be embarrassed by his daughter’s avoidance of him either. 

She tried not to think about it as they passed small shops and homes.  Galinda’s eyes were wide and bright taking in all of the new sights.  Elphaba would share little stories about experiences she’d had around the town.  But mostly, she just enjoyed hearing Galinda’s excited remarks as they passed new places and things. 

“When Nessa and I were old enough to look after ourselves, my father set Dulcibear up in a cottage out in the woods.  It’s quiet and quaint, and she’s happy there.”

“That seems surprisingly kind of him,” Galinda noted, unable to contain the ire she held for him in her voice.  Elphaba smirked and squeezed her hand.

“He can be quite generous when it comes to people who aren’t me,” she pointed out.  “He has a way of charming people that don’t know him well.  I suppose that’s why he’s still governor of Munchkinland.”

“Well,” Galinda murmured, straightening her shoulders and lifting her nose a little with a sniff, “he’d have to work very hard to charm me.  I have no intention of letting that happen.”

“You don’t have to hate him just because—”

Galinda stopped in her tracks and turned completely toward Elphaba, looking her in the eye.

“No father should treat his daughter the way yours treated you.  Nobody deserves that, Elphie.”  She gave Elphaba’s hand a gentle squeeze.  “Governor or not, the only thing that should have mattered to him was being a good husband and a good father.  And he clearly was neither of those things.  I don’t have to meet him to know he’s not a good man.  And you don’t have to make excuses for him.  Ever.  Not with me.” 

“You’re right.  I know,” Elphaba murmured.  “It’s strange being back here.  I grew up wanting to get as far away from here as possible.  Away from him.  But having you here with me makes everything different.”

“Because you know I’d transform anybody who looks at you sideways into a worm,” Galinda sniffed, smoothing her hands over the front of her dress and raising her chin high.  “Or at the very least, I’d try!” 

“You would,” Elphaba chuckled, smile tugging at her lips.  Galinda’s eyes sparkled, and she smiled back.

“There’s my Elphie,” she whispered, leaning forward to press a chaste kiss to her lips.  Galinda’s brows rose up, and she stared directly into Elphaba’s eyes.  “And just so you know, I’m not above transforming governors into slithering little creatures.” 

“You wouldn’t,” Elphaba choked out with a laugh, entirely unsurprised that her Galinda was ready to go to battle over someone so much as looking at her fiancée in the wrong way.

“Try me, Elphie,” Galinda teased, kissing her cheek before reaching down to grab her hand.   “How much further?”

“We’re close,” Elphaba smiled, entwining her fingers with Galinda’s.  “Come on.  I can’t wait for you to meet her.” 

They hurried along the road, eventually turning down a path that led to a quaint wooden gate.  Elphaba’s entire demeanor had changed the moment she saw the intricately carved bear on the gate post.  Her face lit up, and she tugged Galinda along, opening the gate for her and following her through. 

The lane was lined with large, green trees blooming with pink and white flowers, petals scattered over the dirt they walked upon.  Galinda sighed happily when a pink petal landed on her shoulder.  She plucked it off and gently ran her thumb over it to feel its softness.

The small cottage came into view moments later, and Elphaba’s stomach rumbled when the scent of freshly baked bread hit her and momentarily transported her back to those days she’d sit with Dulcibear in the kitchen and make sweet treats with fresh bread and sweet, sticky jam.  Her mouth was suddenly watering at the memory, and she swallowed hard.  Then she stopped in her tracks.

“What’s wrong, Elphie?”  Galinda turned to her with wide eyes. 

“I’m nervous,” she admitted.  “I’m not sure why.”  She took a shaking breath, and Galinda squeezed her hand.

“I’m here,” Galinda promised. 

“I know.  I know.  And I know she’ll love you.  I know she’ll be happy for us.  But somehow, I’m more nervous about telling her than I was about telling Nessa.”  She took a steadying breath and squeezed Galinda’s hand. 

“It’s ok to be nervous,” Galinda assured her.  She smiled.  “Come on.”  Elphaba nodded, and the two of them stepped up onto the little porch.  Before Elphaba could raise her hand to knock, the door swung open, and there she stood.  Dulcibear peered at the two girls from behind a small pair of glasses, eyes widening at the sight.  She wiped her paws upon the blue apron tied around her body, and she gasped softly.

“My girl!” she cried out.  “Hello, little one!”  Galinda looked to Elphaba who immediately ran to embrace her.  She looked so small wrapping her arms around the bear and hugging her tight. 

“I’ve missed you, Dulcibear!” Elphaba sighed, holding onto her for a long moment before she stepped back and took Galinda’s hand again. 

“Oh, look at you.  You’re glowing, Miss Elphaba.”  She wiped at her eyes and looked to Galinda.

“Dulcibear, this is Galinda.”

“Of course!  I’ve heard so much about you.  Look at you.  You’re even more lovely than I imagined.”  She reached a paw out, and Galinda stepped forward to take it, giving her a squeeze.  She could feel powerful claws under that fur, but there was no need to fear.  She smiled brightly at Elphaba’s old nanny and dipped her head in a respectful bow. 

“Galinda, this is Dulcibear, the nanny who raised me.”

“I’ve heard so much about you,” Galinda smiled, shaking Dulcibear’s paw gently. 

“Oh, look at me.  I’m getting rude in my old age.  You girls come in.  Come in.  I just took bread out of the oven.  I have some fresh blackberry jam.  I know that was your favorite, Fabala.”  She turned to guide them into the house.  Galinda glanced at Elphaba.

“A nickname.  Nessa had trouble pronouncing my name, and that’s what came out.  It stuck for a while.”  She grinned, flushing a little at the use of her old nickname.  Galinda just smiled and poked her lower lip out.

“That’s so sweet,” Galinda whispered.  “Fabala.  I like it.”

“Don’t you dare, Gigi,” Elphaba warned with a quirked eyebrow.  Galinda winked at her and nodded her head, holding her hands up in peace.

“Fair enough, Elphie.”

“That’s better, my sweet.” 

Galinda beamed, and they followed Dulcibear into the cottage, shutting the door behind them. 

Once in the kitchen, Elphaba went to work helping her nanny with the bread and jam, despite the old bear’s insistence that she sit down and enjoy a cup of tea.  Galinda watched them work together with such love in her eyes.  Seeing Elphaba with her old nanny warmed her heart.  And it became apparent quite quickly why Elphaba loved her so much.  She was gentle and kind, and Galinda knew that was exactly what Elphaba would have needed growing up with a father like Frexspar Thropp and a village of small-minded Munchkins. 

Once they settled down for their snacks, Galinda listened happily as Elphaba and Dulcibear reminisced on happier moments, and it made her feel good to know that thanks to Dulcibear, Elphaba did have those from time to time. 

Soon, however, Dulcibear’s interest shifted toward Galinda.

“I’m told you’re studying sorcery as well?”

“Oh!”  Galinda wiped at the side of her mouth with a handkerchief.  “Yes.  Elphie and I have been helping each other.  She’s quite a witch.”  Elphaba couldn’t hide the smile that reached her eyes when Galinda sang her praises.  “I’m simply in awe every time she accomplishes something.  She’s very powerful.” 

“Well, yes,” Dulcibear chuckled.  “I’ve known that since the day she was born.”  Dulcibear smiled warmly.  “She was special from the first moment.  Oh, the things she could do frightened people, but I knew she was going to do great things one day.”  Galinda looked to Elphaba who shifted anxiously in her seat at all of the praise.  Galinda reached under the table and squeezed her knee.

“Galinda’s coming into her own power,” Elphaba insisted.  She toyed with the ring on her finger under the table and took a deep breath.  “She just needed someone to help her realize the strength of that power.”

“Elphaba’s a great partner,” Galinda murmured.  “I couldn’t have done any of it without her.”

“It sounds as if the two of you were very lucky to have met each other,” Dulcibear said softly, taking a sip of tea before placing her cup down on the saucer with a gentle clatter.

“We are,” Elphaba murmured softly, running her index finger along the rim of her tea cup.  She glanced at Galinda and then to Dulcibear again.  “That’s actually why I’m here.”  Dulcibear glanced at Galinda and then Elphaba, her eyes glittering with something that Elphaba couldn’t quite decipher.  She put her hand on the table, and Dulcibear’s gaze was drawn to the pretty purple stone that sparkled in the sunlight filtering through the shutters on the kitchen window.

“Oh, that’s beautiful!” Dulcibear cooed, reaching her paw out to pick up Elphaba’s hand.  She studied the ring closely. 

“Galinda made it,” Elphaba smiled.

“You made this?” Dulcibear asked, looking to Galinda with surprise.  Galinda blushed and nodded.

“It was part of a transformation lesson.  Elphie made a beautiful book, and I made this.  I made it for her.”

“It’s beautiful,” Dulcibear sighed.  “What a lovely gift.”  Elphaba swallowed hard and nodded.

“Galinda gave it to me because she wanted me to have something from her.  I’d given her a necklace when we went to the Emerald City.”  Galinda’s hand flew to her neck, finger delicately tracing over the emerald stone.  “I gave it to her, because I saw how much she liked it.  But more than that, I gave it to her because I love her very much.”

Dulcibear’s paws came to rest in front of her on the table.  An unmistakable twinkle in her eye made Elphaba’s heart swell.

“And I love her,” Galinda offered with a soft smile.  “More than I can say.”  She swallowed hard and looked to Elphaba who took her hand and gave it a squeeze upon the table.

“Galinda and I are getting married.  I’ve already told Nessa, but I wanted you to be the next one to know, because if it wasn’t for you, I’m not sure I’d be who I am today.”  She trembled, and Galinda squeezed her hand.  “You were there for me after my mother died, and I want you to know that I’ll never forget that you treated me like your own.  You were my mother when I needed one, and you knowing this part of my life means more to me than…”  She swallowed hard and blinked back tears.  Dulcibear reached across the table, placing her paw atop Galinda and Elphaba’s entwined hands. 

“You will always be my little girl,” Dulcibear promised with a little smile.  “And I’m so proud of everything you’ve accomplished and the woman you’ve become.  And I know your mother would be just as proud.”  Elphaba’s shoulders shook as she bit back a sob.  Galinda pulled her hand away from Elphaba’s only to curl her arm around her shoulders.

“It’s ok,” Galinda whispered softly.  “I’ve got you.”  Elphaba nodded and wiped at her eyes.  She turned her head to Galinda and smiled through her tears. 

“I know,” she whispered.   

Dulcibear pushed her chair back and stood, glancing to Elphaba.

“Come with me, Fabala.  I have something for you.”  Elphaba glanced at Galinda who gave her an encouraging smile.  She pushed her chair back and followed after Dulcibear. 

Dulcibear’s room was in the back of the cottage, and Elphaba couldn’t help but notice the painting hanging in the hallway along the way.  It was of her and Nessa when they were very small.  She’d arranged for it to be done as a gift for the governor on his birthday.   It had hung in the mansion until Dulcibear moved into her own cottage.  Elphaba had always wondered where it had gone, and now she knew.  The one of Nessa by herself at this time still hung proudly in the dining room, she was certain, and despite the fact that she didn’t want to let it get to her, it hurt to think he could give that up so easily simply because it served as a reminder that he had two daughters and not one.

She averted her gaze from it and stopped just inside the doorway of Dulcibear’s room.  The bear was rummaging through a box atop her bedside table.  She paused for a moment, back to Elphaba, and then she turned. 

“I want you to have this,” she said softly, crossing the room and holding her paw out. Elphaba looked down to see a silver ring with three beautiful stones.  The one on the right was a ruby.  The one on the left was a diamond.  The one in the center, curiously, was emerald. 

“It’s beautiful,” Elphaba murmured softly.  “But it’s too much, Dulcibear.  I couldn’t…”

“It was your mother’s,” she said softly.  “She gave it to me before she died.”  Elphaba furrowed her brows and stared hard at the ring.

“I don’t remember this one.”

“No, of course you wouldn’t.  She rarely wore the items that meant a lot to her.  This one?  Well, I don’t know much about it.  I just know that she asked me to keep it safe until you were old enough to understand how much it meant to her.”  She turned her paw and deposited the ring into Elphaba’s green palm.  “I wish I knew the story of it, sweet girl.  But I know how much it meant to her that you have it.  I know your father gave your sister your mother’s jeweled shoes.  I wanted to give you this when you returned from taking Nessa to school.  But you didn’t come back, so I knew it wasn’t the right time yet.”  She smiled and curled Elphaba’s fingers over the ring.  “Keep it safe.”  She smiled.  “Or give it to someone who will do it for you.”  She nodded toward the other side of the house.

Elphaba wiped at her tears with the back of her hand, and as she clasped that precious ring in her hand, she could almost feel her mother’s arms around her.  And then she smiled.

[elphabathroppupland]

What...what does it mean when someone leaves you feedback but deletes it? I read it...it was good feedback. Idk what happened.

[elphabathroppupland]

your finger just ever hover over the delete button on your fic after 100,000 words like, ah, yes, this is the answer, but then you don't delete it because you've put so much time and love into it, but you also just kind of want to shut your brain off for 7 seconds?

[elphabathroppupland]

patiently waiting for validation 'til you're empty and unfulfilled

[elphabathroppupland]

Dulcibear

“Are you ok?” she whispered. 

“I will be.  I’m just anxious to see Dulcibear.  I don’t know how I feel about…about everything else.  But I know I’ll feel better when I see her.”  Galinda’s gaze was comforting and sweet, and when the blonde brought her hand up to gently cup Elphaba’s cheek, she turned to face her.  Galinda rested their foreheads together and took slow, deep breaths.

“I’m here,” she promised.  “Just hold my hand.”  Elphaba nodded and took a deep breath before pulling back and leaning her head back against the worn velvet padding of the headrest. 

“You know, one of my earliest memories was when my mother was expecting Nessa.  She was resting a lot.  Father didn’t want me around, so Dulcibear kept me busy.  She’d take me out to the gardens or out for a walk in the woods.  I always felt safe with her.”  She smiled fondly.  “I was adventurous.”

“That doesn’t surprise me,” Galinda smiled. 

“Well, I decided one day I was going to climb a tree.  I wanted to know what the birds saw when they perched up on the top branches and looked down on the world.”  She laughed softly.  “I got too far ahead of Dulcibear, and she was calling for me.  By the time she got there, I was so far up.  It was probably only ten feet or so, but I was so small.  It felt like I’d climbed a mountain.”  She watched Galinda’s smile reach her sparkling eyes, and she squeezed her hand.  “Dulcibear stood up and reached for me as far as she could, but I was a little too far up.  I’d never seen her scared before.  I just looked down at her and said ‘it’s ok, Dulcibear.  You won’t let me get hurt.’”

excerpt from Chapter 45 of "Look at You."