“Trade,” he answered plainly, simply, an eyebrow quirking as he weighed the consequences of inviting such a lovely thing on board. “I’ve got precious wares to sell, no one was buying where I was before.” Wonka laughed at his sad excuse for humor. “What’s your business so far out at sea, dear lady?”
tessa had cracked a faint smile at the attempted humor, but it faded as quickly as it came. as soon as the question hit her ears, her nails dug into the cloth and dark hues casted downward. what was she to say? she couldn’t tell the truth ‘less she wanted to pay the toll-- all because of an untimely fate. her shoulders rose as a deep breath was drawn in through cold lips.
❝ i’m afraid i cannot say. if i did, i’m certain you would frown upon my reason. ❞
