#debukefarmhold

"...will I be able to find a place alone with thee?"

"of course, and maybe even during the dancing... you see, the dance floor is a maze... of rice paper and soft lights that cast shadows.... each couple won't even have to see each other... just other shadows dancing on the surface. Stevi and Gideon say they understand that it's supposed to be played extra softly at least at some corners... and the 'loud' corner w'll know where it is to avoid"

"couples can silp away at any time.. don't even need flicker flash to do it"

"Well... we needn't make it so soft that others would not enjoy?"

"But..."

"But?" curious

"But I agree with the idea of a reasonable volume..."

A nod "They're pretty good at gauging a crowd. I trust them' He admits "I think if you have some music you definitely want played their taking requests. I told them you like Depeche Mode"

Zara... smiles, just a little.

"Aye."

It's hard for him to see in this dark, to see the smile, but he feels something, and smiles a bit.

"Would.. would you go to the prom with me?"

He can feel her hand seeking his hand, cool fingers sliding between his fingers.

"Aye."

A definite smile, and a squeeze, "Thank you. "

"Thou art my sweetheart,"

"And you are mine " He says truthfully "Oh my. I just thought of something."

"aye?"

"Well, it's not a book, but I bet Bronte tries to add your diploma to her hoard"

"Greedy little thing." Fond.

"She is... but I wouldn't change her. Is she coming on that library trip? The big one?"

"I think she must needs. Even if it means losing her."

"A risk" he admits "But so much to be gained and learned I know."

"And I think she will be delighted."

"I hope she's too young for breeding still..." suddenly acting like a fussy father figure

"...oh... that I had not considered. She's so young!"

"Yes, sorry, probably too young" He says with growing certainty

Or maybe he's TRYING to will it so

A head on his shoulder. "Surely."

"Dragons live for centuries and she was just hatched. WHen she's a hundred and fifty, you may have to give her 'the talk'"

"Fair."

A nod and ignoring the fact neither of them might be around to give it. another squeeze "Okay. Is there anything you want me to change about the gradutation or prom?"

He can feel her head shake.

"Okay" Then "Can I stay here with you a while in the quiet, just holding hands for a bit? I missed that"

A soft nod, and she nestles against him.

And they stay together for a time in a place of dark privacy and soft sounds.

(end scene)