LJ Idol: "Steadfast"

The Steadfast skips as it goes faster and faster, trying to overcome the waves.
Mari smiles and smiles, and kicks out her feet into the spray.
Her arms are folded over the railing of the boat, her hair is blowing about in the wind, and Kathy doesn't think she has ever looked more beautiful.
Kathy's always loved the sea. It changes day-to-day but stays the same, loyal those who are loyal to it.
When the boat stops and bobs, Kathy always feels like her heart beats in time, like she's sort of part of something bigger and ongoing and wonderful.
She wanted to share that with Mari. Who is also wonderful. And has somehow agreed to go on a boat trip date with Kathy, who she has barely known for three months.
She brings the borrowed boat to a stop, thinks Thanks Dad, Sorry Dad,  as the engine makes a cheerful knocking noise and when the boat is almost stopped, makes her way to the back of the boat.
"I've never been out this far before," says Mari, sweeping an arm out to encompass the whole of the empty ocean in front of them, "it's gorgeous."
Kathy nods, pretzels herself around the railing.
"I know. So peaceful."
"Just us and the ocean."
The silence is long, but nice. Kathy gets to nudge herself even closer to Mari, almost cuddle up, while they both breathe in the salty air and peace.
Kathy lets out a long, drawn out sigh, trying to gather her courage to take Mari's hand. 
Why was it easier to bring her all the way out here than to just reach out?
"Thank you for bringing me here," Mari says, leaning in, fitting her head into the suddenly very tense crook of Kathy's neck.
"You are... welcome."
Mari reaches over, links her fingers with Kathy's, and sighs the sigh of the content.
The Steadfast bobs ever on.