Time to stop joking

ㅤ Yuri turned the wildfowl over so it cooked evenly. He was a true cooking wizard! He'd chosen the spices so masterfully—the aroma alone was delicious. Judith couldn't wait to begin. Repede sat quietly next to him. His nose moved, making it clear he was enjoying the scent too, though dogs have different preferences. But Repede wasn't a dog… The guild was growing rapidly, with more and more complex and dangerous orders appearing. Yuri and Judith usually handled them, as they did this time. But there were plenty of harmless ones, too. Each member became famous for something special—even Repede had his own special orders. "It'll be ready soon," Yuri announced. Repede's ears twitched, perking up. Judith smiled softly, coming closer. She crouched down next to Yuri. She took a deep breath, closing her eyes. "It's a shame we don't get any culinary orders. You'd definitely be famous," she almost sang. "I'm afraid I'd lose the pleasure of cooking." Yuri shook his head. It was mostly the upper classes, for whom Yuri had no warm feelings, who needed gourmet food. And they were sometimes known for their mind-numbing whims. And while Yuri could, on his own behalf, rein in those who were particularly presumptuous, on behalf of the guild all he could do was endure: he wouldn't dare let the guild down. "Indeed," Judith laughed sweetly, lightly brushing her shoulder against Yuri's. "It's enough that I can try your dishes." The tender meat hadn't lost its juiciness, completely imbued with the delicious flavor. Perfectly salted with seasonal notes and a playful spiciness! Everything in moderation. Repede enthusiastically crunched on whatever Yuri and Judith hadn't eaten. He always looked forward to the bones. And the bigger they were, the better. "You know, rumors are spreading that we're dating." Judith broached the subject casually. She glanced sideways at Yuri with a hint of slyness, just like when they were flirting. But this time, it was different: the well-concealed undertones of seriousness didn't slip past Yuri. It was easy to guess where the conversation was heading, so Yuri didn't prevaricate, asking directly: "Do you want to turn them into reality?" "Yes." Judith's smile widened a little. Yuri had always attracted her with his sharp wit and tongue. He was an excellent cook, incredibly agile and strong, resourceful, and, of course, handsome. Wasn't he perfect? Judith couldn't boast of many qualities, but it would definitely not be embarrassing to be seen next to her. Striking, intelligent, strong. Able to remain silent and keep secrets at the right time. That's why she and Yuri clicked so well. They should have thought about developing their relationship a long time ago. Without waiting for rumors. Judith's palm rested on the ground. Yuri covered it with his own, leaning in. An innocent, teasing kiss, gradually evolving into something more. The embrace grew tighter, the kisses more passionate. At some point, Yuri pushed Judith to the ground. Repede shyly covered his eyes with his paw…

* * *

Yuri and Judith finally reached the city. The occasional whispers and confused glances from those "in the know" had never bothered Yuri, especially now that they were justified. However, they provoked him. He lingered by the jewelry rack, choosing the most beautiful stone in a gold setting, while Judith scouted the surroundings for her next assignment. "This one," he found the best possible option. Having paid for the gift, he whistled to Judith and tossed it in her direction, knowing she would catch it. "If we move, then move quickly," he said with a teasing smile at Judith’s surprised look as she held the ring. Yuri caught her off guard. Not for long… She returned the favor, quickly finding the right building with her gaze and beckoning her groom to follow her. To the church. "As you say," Judith laughed softly. Yuri wasn't prepared for this turn of events. Somehow, he'd imagined a wedding to be a more solemn occasion, requiring preparation and the gathering of friends. 'However…' "The banquet can be held afterward," he exhaled, quickening his pace to walk ahead of his future wife and lead her to the altar. ㅤ