Chapter 126: A vaguely familiar thirst
Everyone was surprised, except Cass, when he shakily raised his hand to place it on top of Sam’s, holding onto the bottle as the liquid poured down his throat. The thick liquid coated his mouth, the taste of herbs, the bite of mint, and the slight metallic taste washing away the remnants of the healing tonic that he hadn’t even been aware of that remained.
The bottle emptied, and Cass sighed, licking his lips. His gaze slid towards where Charles stood, and he jerked, crouching down and grabbing another bottle, opening it and handing it off to Sam, who stood there in shocked silence.
Everyone did, except Vespertine, who had a calculating, curious expression on his face. His arms were crossed, his bright blue gaze watching Cass as he vaguely grabbed for the new bottle, licking his lips as he waited for Sam to lower it to his lips. He didn’t know why he was so thirsty, but he was, as this liquid was hitting the spot.
Cass spilled slightly, and Draken’s thumb wiped away the small drop. Cass didn’t know what he’d done with the drop until he made a hissing noise above him.
"Oh yuck. That’s disgusting. Ugh, still tastes like-" He cut off when Vespertine gave him a glare and cleared his throat.
"I would watch what you’re saying, since Cassian is guzzling it down like water." Vespertine’s voice was tight, and Lady Fiona jerked. It was like hearing it out loud made it real to her, while Cass wasn’t fully paying attention to the trio. He was busy finishing the second bottle.
His hand was still shaking where it held it, but his grip was stronger. Sam was watching him, worry coating his expression. His gaze scanned his face, looking him over.
"Do you want another?" He asked quietly, and Cass took a few deep breaths. The rattle was gone when he breathed, and his head didn’t feel as foggy.
"Give me a moment." Cass rasped, and Sam backed up, nodding as he took the bottle with him. Cass closed his eyes, leaning his head back. His body yearned for another bottle, another taste, and now that he had enough strength, he wanted to fight that instinct.
He’d never had it before. This cloying thirst that filled him. The desire to have more, need more, want-
Cass’ eyes snapped open suddenly, and he turned his gaze sharply towards the crate as he realised suddenly, and with horror that no, this wasn’t the first time he’d craved something this deeply. He just hadn’t had a clear mind about it the last time he’d craved it. He had no idea what that meant, and it only made things more confusing.