@rieganev / cont’d.
❛ So forward, Teach… This must have really been on your mind then, huh? ❜ Typical teasing is the chosen response to the intrusive question, though the lack of smile and mischief in his eyes gave away his unwillingness to answer. How unfortunate to find himself in this situation, where he couldn’t at least vague his way around the question until they’d had enough. But his word was on the line here, and he did not want to prove unreliable- especially to her of all people.
❛ Well if you must have an answer, then I guess that I will answer it with another question in a typical me fashion. ❜ He finally speaks, empty smile replacing the blank expression on his face as to hide the discomfort of the situation. ❛ I guess the best way to put it is this: is anybody ever truly happy ? I mean- Maybe a few times in our fleeting existence, but in my experience it’s always bittersweet. ❜ He finally answers, completely unsatisfied with how vulnerable he felt in front of the women. ❛ But after I’m finished with the world, I think that will all soon change. ❜
❛ You’ll be there to help me see it through, right Teach ? ❜
❝ perhaps. ❞
her gaze stays on him, observing her student's countenance. it was a question that remained at the back of her mind ever since they'd first met. despite his tone, she could see the answer in his eyes. he was a puzzle she'd been familiar with, but one she had yet to solve. he was truly a schemer: answering in riddles, turning her curiosities into his philosophy — but it was one she could empathize with. after all, she was once numb to such an emotion.
❝ you make a fair case, ❞
arms fold over her chest, her own eyes showing a hint of concern. she hoped that one day, his smile would always reach his eyes.
❝ — yes, you have my word. i'll help see to your ambitions. ❞ a nod, lips curling to a smile to match his. ❝ i'll always be here, claude. ❞