Chapter 2
Bernie’s shy, puppy-dog eyes do something to Serena; when she thinks she’s done something to upset Serena (and sometimes she does, but most of the time it’s Bernie being hopelessly clueless about when Serena’s teasing) she shuffles into their shared office, a mug of tea held protectively in front of her like a lifeline, a peace offering she really doesn’t need, eyes fixed on her shoes. And Serena feels herself smiling, quite despite herself, and then Bernie looks up at her through those angel-gold bangs, and she’s done, pushing off the edge of the table she was leaning against, unfolding her arms and reaching for the mug of tea. “Just for that, you’re doing the dishes for the week,” she’ll whisper, as she brushes past Bernie, a quick kiss to her lover’s temple and a smirk on her lips as she saunters away.