lancifolium | inbox for eastbound

[Well.

Eleven glanced off, his face heating to match.

She certainly had him there]

..I suppose I can't argue. You can be awfully captivating.

[ The compliment got a quiet laugh out of her, and she had to look down at her tea for a moment before her gaze returned to him. ]

I suppose that means the answer is yes - you don't mind being my prisoner for the day.

[Ducking his head, some of his hair had the decency to partially cover his face. He cleared his throat]

Well, you make a compelling argument.

[ After setting her empty cup down she leaned back slightly, propping herself up on her hands as she peered over at him. ]

El, can I ask you something?

[Eleven blinked over at her, lowering his cup. Nerves shivered through him, but surely it couldn't be too awful]

Of course. What is it?

It's just - I said it, and then...

[ Lily winced, losing the battle against her nerves. It always seemed to happen like this - she'd decide to be the bold one only to end up tripping all over herself. She hoped this would get easier as time passed. ]

What, um. That is, would girlfriend be, uh - the correct word?

[Oh. That.

Eleven fidgeted, not quite able to maintain eye contact]

Ah, as I understand the translation, the word would be similar to 'ladylove'- which is, yes, rather accurate, I'd say.

[ Not expecting his version of the term to be quite so, well, oddly romantic she flushed a bit before nodding. ]

Is it meant to imply a successful courting in progress?

[He nodded, swallowing down another burst of nerves]

It rather does. ..Unfortunately, I haven't had much in way of time to work on your gift, but I intend to quite soon.

[Maybe spend some time sketching designs while she read or some such]

My gift?

[ Wishing she still had her tea to fidget with Lily shook her head, momentarily flustered. ]

I promise this courtship is just as successful without a gift.

[ Pulling away enough to stretch her legs out in front of her Lily's arms went around his middle. ]

You're captivating too you know.

[Eleven huffed short amusement and freed up one hand to go around her shoulders]

Successful, perhaps- though not complete.

[He drained the rest of his tea quickly to set aside]

And here I'd thought myself rather plain-looking next to many of the other men among us.

Complete? How do you know when it's complete.

[ Scooting downward into more of a laying position she pulled him with her. ]

I can't say I've given the other blokes that much attention. At least, certainly not the same sort of attention I give you.

[He moved with her urging, settling together with a content sigh]

Well, you'd said you'd consider yourself thoroughly courted, so..

[Eleven's hand drifted over her shoulder, then settled there] But I'm honored that I've earned such favor.

[ Keeping her arms tight around him she draped a leg over him comfortably so that she could pull him nearer. ]

You're the only person I've ever shared a bed with like this, so yes I'd say soundly courted.

[ She paused looking up at him. ]

I think I'm getting used to this if I'm honest. I miss you when I sleep alone.

[The emotion behind that soft sentiment thickens his throat and unfurls a well of tenderness in his heart. His arms come around her, holding her tight to him for a long moment]

..I understand that well. I haven't wanted to ask too much of you.

[ More than content to cozy up against him as he held her tightly Lily turned her head to hide her face in his hair and closed her eyes. ]

I wish you would. You could ask too much of me - I'm nearly certain it would not be too much at all.

[Yes it would. Because Goddess, does he find himself wanting sometimes and it's the only reason he's relieved they don't stay together every night]

Hm.. I'll give the matter some thought.

[ His answer came across as vague, and she pulled back enough to look at him, wondering if she ought to be concerned. ]

You don't have to stay with me every night of course, but you don't have to worry about asking too much of me either.

[Guilt manifested in the small wince of his eyes. It was his favorite non-answer and not one she deserved after everything. He breathed]

..I think I do, still. It's okay. I'm.. I want you to be happy with me.

Why?

[ Wondering if she had done or said something he might have taken as dismissive she continued to search his face uncertainly. ]

What could you say or do that I wouldn't be happy with? Did I do something?

No- no, you didn't-

[Goddess grant him some ability to speak well]

I just- everything has- quickly, already. I don't want you to think that I- that I don't.. value you properly.

[ Oh.

Oh. ]

I know you value me, and, I don't -that is to say, I'm not certain if I'm, but. You know, it's nice being close to you. I'd like to continue to be close to you.

[His insides squirmed with uncertainty and at cross purposes. Hoping as much as fearing she'd interpreted correctly. But neither could he brave any nearer to the subject, and took what ground he could latch onto]

Yes. That's- of course. ..I'd like that.

[ Somebody had to get it together and form full, helpful sentences and Lily was trying so hard to have it happen sooner rather than later. ]

If you want something more between us, I think- I mean not everything more so quickly but, if that's what it is then I wouldn't feel not valued.

[ Was this making it worse? This was probably making it worse. ]

[Goddess have mercy on him for wanting such things.

Miserably red-faced, Eleven nodded shortly]

Okay. ..Sorry. It's all.. very improper, I know. But it doesn't have to be. I like you, like this. Being close.

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