No matter how many years have passed, no matter how close he was with Adeline, there would still be a moment when he found himself surprised by the affection between them. When he would not expect it but still long for it. So now, Archie, caught in the warm embrace of Adeline, felt a kaleidoscope of emotions swirling within him. Her grin, a radiant expression that could brighten the darkest corners of any room, had an ability to tug at his heart. As Adeline pulled away Archie’s gaze remained fixed on her, happy to see her spirit was still up after probably dealing with many unpleasant encounters. To her apology all he could do was offer her a soft smile with a slight shake of his head, a blend of affection and understanding shaping his features. ”No need to apologize, Adie.“
The room seemed to fade into the background. For Archie, it was just Adeline and himself. He couldn’t help but revel in the genuine joy that lit up Adeline’s face as she received the small, carefully wrapped box. Her blush, a delicate reflection of the warmth in her heart, was a sight he cherished. ”I am sure whatever you decide to make is going to be the best gift I’ll ever receive, but you do not have to waste your energy on someone like me. I am just happy I was able to find it for you,“ his hand quickly found the side of her face as soon as she pulled back from him, leaving him once again with a smile on his face. A hand that slid down to take hers with an idea to gently lead her towards the couch to sit down.
Now seated, his gaze lingered on the emptiness he felt in his hand as he let go of her, letting her get comfortable on her side. A feeling of her hand in his which he might have to forget about soon if things go the way they do around this time of the year. How strange and scary it is to watch someone you basically grew up with waiting on the person of their dreams, a new life they will have without you. Thoughts Archie, for a while now, tried so hard to push away, so with a hint of mischief to his smile he looked back up at her determined not to ruin his mood and add some fun to Adeline’s day. [color="#7d8270”]”So you said it’s been quite a day? Fancy to run away with me then?“[/color] From his voice and the expression he had earlier, or simply by being in his life long enough, no matter how serious he tried to seem right now you know it was just a silly game of let’s pretend. Some of the scenarios he might wish didn’t stay just that. ”You wouldn’t have to deal with… all of this, I wouldn’t have to fight off all the weirdos. We could find a nice house somewhere far away but probably isolated so we don’t have anyone trying to kick us out. We could be… Whatever and whoever we want. Or maybe you’d prefer to stay here? I would not get hurt if you do, I will manage somehow.“ His smile might’ve said one thing but what he was feeling was much deeper.
@/sunflowerjm ahhhh