I am sorry. [It's genuine, if not awkward... Everything about her is awkward. She wants to get out of the hug but she isn't sure if she should squirm or not. What if he gets mad? Aaaahhhh she sucks at this.]
Good... I would not know where to find you in another city. I know this one well.
[She wipes at the corners of her eyes and looks at her fingertips. Yep, that's tears.]
I will tell you all about what I have seen when I return.
[At least Zulius understand she's an awkward duck, so he does eventually let her go, patting her arm gently.]
Zero, Sweetie, you've got nothing to be sorry for. And right? Luckily I've made my MARK here. Nowhere else is fabulous enough for me.
[Nowhere!!!]
I'm looking forward to it!! [Genuinely. He wants to know how she did, out there in the big wide world. Finally finding herself now that she's got a 'herself' to find. He offers her a smile, not as big and obnoxious as usual. A little more gentle, genuine. ] Literally anytime. You go out there and have ALL the adventures. I'm rooting for you.
[She's grateful at being released, and surreptitiously rubs her face on her sleeve. Definitely not tearing up, not at all.]
I should go. [She starts toward the door, hesitates, and adds:] This place... and the people in it... are precious. I will not forget what you have done for me.
Farewell for now, Zulius.
[She smiles at him, a more tangible and soft thing, and then tucks her hat as goodbye.
Things will certainly be interesting in Europe the next few months.]
no subject
Good... I would not know where to find you in another city. I know this one well.
[She wipes at the corners of her eyes and looks at her fingertips. Yep, that's tears.]
I will tell you all about what I have seen when I return.
... Thank you again for everything.
no subject
Zero, Sweetie, you've got nothing to be sorry for. And right? Luckily I've made my MARK here. Nowhere else is fabulous enough for me.
[Nowhere!!!]
I'm looking forward to it!! [Genuinely. He wants to know how she did, out there in the big wide world. Finally finding herself now that she's got a 'herself' to find. He offers her a smile, not as big and obnoxious as usual. A little more gentle, genuine. ] Literally anytime. You go out there and have ALL the adventures. I'm rooting for you.
no subject
I should go. [She starts toward the door, hesitates, and adds:] This place... and the people in it... are precious. I will not forget what you have done for me.
Farewell for now, Zulius.
[She smiles at him, a more tangible and soft thing, and then tucks her hat as goodbye.
Things will certainly be interesting in Europe the next few months.]