[The small amount of hope and relief he feels when their eyes finally meet again and he sees that realization doesn't quite show through his expression, unfortunately. It takes a moment for him to continue, opening his mouth for a few seconds before he does actually speak:]
If—
[He cuts himself off, unable to offer the possibility of refusal even though his (polite, human) instinct is to keep asking and making sure.
This time, he simply accepts the offer. Maybe it's a step towards accepting what help he needs, or maybe it's just a coping mechanism he'll abandon later. He lets out a breath.]
[ She studies his expression for a moment - even though it gives away very little of what he's thinking. But then her smile brightens, genuine and warm, and she squeezes his hand. ]
It would be. I'd be honored to have you as my Bonded, Ferran. There are few here I trust more.
[He doesn't know if he's earned that trust, but he certainly hopes he can. He takes in a slow breath, one of his many worries alleviated, but his voice is still a little strained when he finally replies.]
Thanks...
[Hopefully soon he'll have the nerve to express the same sentiment back to her with more than a single word.]
no subject
Date: 2021-06-24 07:55 am (UTC)If—
[He cuts himself off, unable to offer the possibility of refusal even though his (polite, human) instinct is to keep asking and making sure.
This time, he simply accepts the offer. Maybe it's a step towards accepting what help he needs, or maybe it's just a coping mechanism he'll abandon later. He lets out a breath.]
... that would be nice.
no subject
Date: 2021-06-24 01:52 pm (UTC)It would be. I'd be honored to have you as my Bonded, Ferran. There are few here I trust more.
no subject
Date: 2021-06-29 08:45 pm (UTC)Thanks...
[Hopefully soon he'll have the nerve to express the same sentiment back to her with more than a single word.]