cups her cheeks and slightly squishes them.
his hands are much rougher than she last remembers, but they still have that gentle aura to them. despite the kind little affections of the past, still she cannot help but continue to be a worrywart. he’s always cooped up in his office, trying to be a savior to the world, finish the job minerva could not. while he may seem grown up and more adult, a man of his wiser years, yugo had reminded her long ago that were still just children, born into an unforgiving world and they shouldn’t bear the responsibilities of such tragedy — that same thought applies to him. “ norman, you look tired. are you resting enough? ” her hands reach out to delicately cup his own, looking directly into his gaze with a visibly concerned demeanor. since when did she begin to act like mama back in the old days? maybe it was after holding the responsibility to look after all the younger ones. that’s something they could have in common: a job in they’re entrusted with, one they absolutely cannot fail.
“ you should take a break, you don’t have to sleep — oh! we could play a quick round of chess! how about it? ” her lips soften to a gentle smile, one reserved just for him. he hadn’t need to be a “savior” all the time; she wanted him to be norman too, and to remember that he wasn’t just “boss” or “willaim minvera”, but the kind, considerate boy she grew up with. she chuckles, a hint of cockiness in her tone wanting to edge him on. “ unless you’re scared i’ll have the upper hand, that is. ”
