#earthrunes

A deep breath. August offers his arm, walks her to a private spot, and tells her everything. "He is.... very much like me, but without the defenses and strengths I have."

"Wait, he.. how mUCH like you? I mean.. not to be shallow but he sounds like your mortal twin"

"That is an accurate assessment, Leonora."

"His appearance is very much like mine, he is withdrawn as I am. He studies law, and considered a career in ministry. His mother looks very much like Coradel which is an entire therapy session on its own......"

"WOW.. that's.. that's a bit freaky" She looks thoughtful

"You are not wrong."

"May I ask a favor?"

"Always" A cautious look "You want me to turn him down don't you? Gently"

"No. I would like you to be gentle."

"Whatever you, and he, choose.... be gentle."

"August I'm not often into the whips and chains.. not on the first date." She strokes his face "I think I see your point. I'll.. let him know I"m not looking for anything serious"

He nods. "Thank you."

"If... if it were me... if I were him.... I would fall forever in love with you. It would ... damage him irreparably."

"Maybe I should just say no thanks.." She blushes "But better to have loved and lost they say?"

"Be kind." he asks.

"Am I ever cruel?" A beat "WHen it's not called for?"

"No." with a genuine smile "Never maliciously or on purpose."

"Good. Relax. I'll handle it. And I can resist him, after all, he probably doesn't have that spit curl you have" A wink

"Ahhhh......"

His expression says it all.

"He has a spit curl like yours?" She steadies herself "Okay, yeah this could be harder than I thought"

August nods. "Perhaps you should see him for a distance. Just.... to gauge things."

"I'll see if I can spy on him.. yeah, tha'ts healthy" She kisses him on the cheek

"Not -spy- ... per se.... just...." helplessly "The Castles are under my protection." he gestures to the posted notice.

"Yes, August. I .. I don't think you need to protect them from ME" She adds

"Of... of course not."

"But i see you care for them and I'll .. I'll try not to dissapoint you"

"You won't." And, being they are secluded, he presses a gentle kiss to her cheek.

She enjoys it, a light blush

"Thank you."