continued from ♘ || @fleewest
He was taken aback by her sudden sincerity at first; but soon softenedー fitting work worn and blistered hands over her daintier one, forming a warm and protective chrysalis. Tilly was no stranger to hard work, but delicate hands had become noticeably softer since he last saw her. Arthur was glad; for as incredibly capable as she was, the life of an outlaw was never meant for her. The city suited her, so tremendously smart she was, sharply dressed and in charge of her own life. All of Saint Denis would eat from her palm before long, Arthur was sure of it.
“Ain’t nothin’, Tilly. Y’know that.” He chuckled, patting the back of her hand, “Call n’ I’ll come runnin’.”
Not that she ever would callー bullheaded like that, but damned if he didn’t constantly remind her the option was there.
The clatter of dishes and the bustle of their neighboring diners packing in and flattening their dress clothes momentarily interrupted him; a reminder that the sun had long set and not many remained in this fine establishment; and Arthur could never help but feel a little silly all dressed up and sitting pretty like he was. His cheeks pinked, a combination of bashfulness and champagne.
“ ‘Sides, s’been far too long.” Truly, it was her that did him a favor accepting his invitation, “ ...I missed you, girl.”