[ He does. And that's what makes him feel guilty. He's still got that itch of discomfort over the fact that - well, that Vanadi loved him. Or says he did. And for Byerly, it had been just a pleasant little fling.
(And so what? How many relationships have been like that in the past? Maker.) ]
It could be a fine opportunity to meet more people. You don't want your only friend to be the person you're screwing. It makes things extra miserable if something goes wrong.
[ He takes a breath to explain, but no words suggest themselves. The silence draws out, and he brushes a nervous hand through his hair with a glance away.
Finally: ] I -- would be alone if she left, that's all. No need to tell me that's not a good thing, as you'll notice I'm not exactly proclaiming all of this from the rooftops.
Certainly, yes, I've no doubt that you're right. [ He wilts just a little more, shoulders curving in on himself. ] Unfortunately, I find I am not quite ready to return to independence.
Well, that's typically how my flawed decisions are received. [ He considers, thoughtful. ] I'm hoping my matters are too far down the scale of your concerns to bother with the effort of it. You are a rather busy man.
Then I suppose there's always the third option, to ignore this venture entirely. [ His brows knit. ] Are you offering help? Despite-- [ He waves a hand, meant to indicate the fairly pathetic show he's made of himself. ]
To be perfectly clear-- [ With a slight lean in: ] While I would certainly appreciate your assistance, this decision is well decided with or without it.
no subject
no subject
(And so what? How many relationships have been like that in the past? Maker.) ]
It could be a fine opportunity to meet more people. You don't want your only friend to be the person you're screwing. It makes things extra miserable if something goes wrong.
no subject
no subject
no subject
Finally: ] I -- would be alone if she left, that's all. No need to tell me that's not a good thing, as you'll notice I'm not exactly proclaiming all of this from the rooftops.
no subject
no subject
no subject
[ He sighs, rubbing at his face. ]
Maker. So I must sign off on this deeply flawed decision of yours.
no subject
Would you?
no subject
[ He seems rather peeved about it. ]
Stand in your way?
no subject
no subject
no subject
no subject
Am I enabling your decisions, you mean?
no subject
no subject
Fine. I've something I can have you do.
no subject
Thank you. Really. I appreciate it.