#earthrunes

August finds Leonora a delight. Her nude from settled on him, even as he studies lawbooks, and she doesn't seem to mind. She's actually talking shop, "You know, if you want in a lawfirm, my dad has connections."

He smiles softly and sets the book aside. After all, manners. Instead of a dusty, dry tome his hands hold her warm, pliant flesh. Politely. "I should probably get through a second year of studies, at least. I would like to earn my way but in the Autumn World today... that might not be possible."

Leonora nods "I know. And it's good you want to do things fair, but you don't just need to make a living, you need to make a living that lets you handle that Banner house of yours. No shame in priorritizing right?"

"No, there is not shame in prioritizing." He agrees. "Perhaps a meeting could be arranged over the summer? Something... ah, casual. Social."

"Sure, Coradel on your arm charming them? It'll be a good approach"

"Ah. But....."

"But?" She snuggles

He strokes along her spine. "She excels at charming, far better than I." he agrees "Ah. You would arrange this social opportunity?"

She purrs

His fingertips continue to pet.

"And yes, of course I would"

"And, of course, attend." he asks/confirms.

"Surely, unless you two want me to make an excuse to step out after it starts? I'm flexible" She arches her back to demonstrate

"Aaahhhhh....." he can't help but follow the line and curves of her body "N... no, I, ah, I just wonder... ah, if the nature of our relationship were to be apparent.... if it might not shock the mortals in attendance?"

"Neither will I deny what we are."

"Oh goodness, give me some credit. " She tosses her hair "Oh, Mister Smithers... I SO have to introduce you to Chloe, she's like, my best friend. Taught me SO much about fashion... or whatevs. Oh, and this is her husband, sweet guy"

"See.. I can act"

A soft smile, a bit sheepish. "Yes, of course. They will see us as young to be married, but I won't deny that either."

"Don't bother. Admit you two took a gamble, but then.. explain how it worked out. Risk takers who have brains are NOT Spurned in legal circles"

"It may seem impulsive.... but, it was. There is truth in that. And some wisdom in the idea 'Nothing ventured, nothing gained.'" he agrees.

"See, House Fiona is rubbing off on you" And she rubs pleasantly indeed

He clears his throat. "Occupational hazard." (Was that a joke??)

She grins at that "Wait, was that a joke? Are you joking?"

This time the smile is tiny and sly. "Yes."

A throaty laugh and she has to take a moment before kissing him "August, you have come so far"

"Thank you." modestly.

"Now, you're allowed to study if you know. I can snuggle without being he center of your attention"

August smiles gently. "I appreciate the offer but, ah, truth to tell.... you're a bit of a distraction, albeit a most pleasant one."

"Oh.. maybe I should distract you more than a bit then go to sleep next to you? " A grin

"We can spend that time together if you wish. But I will have to leave well before morning. You might be more comfortable in your own room." he points out considerately.

"Oh. You have to leave early?"

He touches her cheek gently. "As always. Coradel and I wake together." he reminds her softly.

"Oh no apologies there" She kisses his hand "You've always been honest . I'll go to my room. YOu're welcome to drop by there for an hour or so if you like." She rises "And I won't be offended" Slipping on a night robe

He stands (and she knows she has affected him) and escorts her to the door, bowing and kissing her hand. "I'll follow shortly." he says.

"Such a gent" Fondly, and one last kiss in this room before she departs.

August shakes his head bemusedly when the door is shut, and goes back to his desk. He settles into his chair, but doesn't pick up the book (yet).

And Leonora goes to her room and opens up a book to read, a book she hopes somoene will interrupt

Shortly thereafter, there's a soft tap at her door.

She puts the book down, and moves to the door, night robe parting just so

August is there, with a bottle of fine wine and a small box of very select chocolates. He also has a sheepish smile.

"Oh that is so sweet, in both senses of the word. Come in, please"

SHe steps to the side

He does, setting the items down where he knows (from previous occasions) is best. "Thank you for the invitation."

"Thank you for accepting" She closes the door behind him

"I know it's a bit of cliche but... "

"It's a classic. And so are you" She dims the lights

He holds out a hand towards her, for her to take as he draws her to him.

And she does and, voila, she's in his arms

He takes the initiative, kissing her lips softly; just a gentle press flesh to flesh before they seperate.

And again.