.

[rehandle]

Comments

[dead_tongue]

[He has to sit with that for a little while.]

She kept me safe. Please don't think she didn't. My mom is just about the most caring, kindest person alive. She just... She was raised in it too, you know? It's an honour and a responsibility.

I guess... maybe. I feel bad about it, now, like she was right all along.

I never wanted to stop helping people, though. Even here, it's all I really want to do. I like to think I do.

[rehandle]

You do.

[ God knows knowing there's somewhere he can go before things ever get bad again is solace enough, but Iggy's been kind on top of that. Made knowing it easy. How many others has he shown the same kindness and more? ]

You and she were looking at the world through a different lens, I know that. But your life is yours. We each find our way to our duty and our purpose in our own time. You don't need to feel bad for that.

I'm sure the people you've helped since taking your own path would be glad that you did if they'd known what it took for you to be there.

[dead_tongue]

Yeah? [The relief is palpable. He might actually cry with it, a little.] Thank you.

I really do try. I know I'm not perfect, and I don't expect any acknowledgement, I really don't. But it's awfully nice to hear, all the same. I care about people a whole lot. Too much, probably.

That includes you, you realise.

[rehandle]

[ A huff, not quite a laugh but warm enough to convey some quiet humor. ]

I might have noticed. [ Somewhere in the earnestness of their conversations. ] You do a good job. I hope you're proud of that.

[dead_tongue]

...wow, so this is what a praise kink feels like.

[rehandle]

Thrilled to have broadened your horizons.

[dead_tongue]

Don't worry, unlike everyone else close to my age, I have no father issues to work out. I just like older men because I like men in general.

But seriously, then you. I hope you know if you ever need me for anything, I'll help you. You've been nice to me.

[rehandle]

Anyone ever tell you you should consider looking at that as the bare minimum? [ You were nice to him first, Iggy! ] But thank you. I won't forget it.

If you ever need magical intervention, offer's open in return.

[dead_tongue]

...yes, actually.

Thank you.

[rehandle]

Consider taking the advice.

See you around.