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[cactusy]

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[cactusy]

protecting each other is kind of what we do, Harold

you're protecting me by offering me a way to stay busy, right?

[ornithologist]

It's a convenient alignment of purposes. I do genuinely want some reconnaissance done of Garreg Mach.

And I would like a reprieve from others protecting me. I don't think I can stand it right now.

[cactusy]

I wouldn't want you to protect me in any other way than giving me stuff to do

so fair enough, I guess

[ornithologist]

[ He slowly relaxes, breathing out, when she doesn't challenge him on it. ]

I wouldn't give you busy work, in any case. That would be insulting.

[cactusy]

you never have. that IS one of the reasons I never ditched you guys.

[ornithologist]

It wasn't the impeccable employee benefits?

In all seriousness, Sameen, I treasure you and your presence here immensely. Whatever state of mind you're in, that won't change.

[ Not this time -- not again. He can do that much right by his father. ]

[cactusy]

[Best boss!!]

ok

back at you

[ornithologist]

[ He has to swallow heavily before replying. ]

Thank you. And please do keep an eye on Mr. Bossie. He's back to calling me sir again, which can't be a good sign.

[cactusy]

he came over a few days ago and was being really nice

[This isn't meant as an insult: niceness doesn't really do much for her personally, but she at least recognizes it as a generally good thing that's usually well-meant, and that most people would appreciate. But it's also not quite a compliment, either: there's a thin line between being nice and being ingratiating.]

[ornithologist]

Nice to you. Perhaps a sincere bid for connection and safety, reaffirming that he isn't on his own?

I can't help but recall Mr. Carver's initial words of caution upon his arrival.

[cactusy]

oh, yeah? what did he tell you?

[ornithologist]

To quote, that he's a "good kid" who "startles bad," and that he might kill me if I opened the door to their residence.

[cactusy]

so what should I do about it?

[ornithologist]

What was it you said, protect him by finding a way to stay busy? And just stay nearby, I think, based on him visiting you.

[cactusy]

so you're saying I should be his emotional support animal?

[ornithologist]

If that's what you want to call a friend, then yes, absolutely. Please do that.

[cactusy]

it's a style of friendship that you know isn't a strength of mine, Harold

[ornithologist]

It's not so complicated as you're making it out to be. I've asked you to help him stay busy and stay physically nearby. I think you excel at both things.

[cactusy]

I'm just saying, if it turns out he needs a hug, I'm going to need back-up

[ornithologist]

I disagree, but if you want to tap out, I can certainly provide a hug.

[cactusy]

bold words for someone who's never seen me try to hug someone

[But then, she's never seen Harold hug anyone, either. She pauses for a moment, trying to picture it; she doesn't deny that it's possible, but it's still weirdly difficult.]

you turning touchy-feely in your old age?

[ornithologist]

I have every confidence in you, like I said.

Not broadly speaking, but for someone under my care and in duress I can make an exception.

[cactusy]

good, because he probably does need it. that man has "secret heart of mush" written all over him

[ornithologist]

Yes, it's always the people insisting the loudest that they are reprehensible and unforgivable that could most use a hug.

[cactusy]

I'm not great with self-loathing people, either