'Fly on the wall' [ FOR OUT? ]
It seemed as though the butler appeared as soon as the front door closed behind her guest. “So... Out. You’re serious about him, then?”
She spun around, surprise bringing colour to her cheeks. “Harlan–! I… yes, I suppose I am. He’s a good man.”
“Of course, I don’t doubt that. He seems like an upstanding gentleman. Do I need to have a talk with him?” Harlan raised one silver brow, staring her down from where he stood, dusting a painting that hung on the wall.
“N-No, I don’t think that will be necessary, I’m trying not to scare him away. Although I don’t know that I’m doing myself any favors with that, especially as of late. It’s a wonder he still comes around so frequently, most people would probably have run in fear for their life by now. Or blackmailed me.”
“Yes, well, love hardly ever follows logic.” With a shrug he went back to his cleaning, pulling out a handkerchief to wipe down the metal picture frame. Adelaide stood still at the door, incredulity written into her expression.
“I think you’re the one not following logic, Harlan. Love? That’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve said all day. All week.”
He paused again, giving her a look. “If you’d seen the stupid smile on your face five minutes ago you might not be so skeptical. I’ve been around a while and I’ve been in love many times, and–”
“Then it wasn’t love, was it? Just mislabeled infatuation, and if that’s what you consider love than it does not exist. Perhaps you’ve been around too long, Harlan, you’re getting soft. Love is an inflammatory term and nothing else.” Adelaide wandered the foyer idly as she spoke, clasping both hands together tightly.
“Whatever you say, my lady.” Another shrug. “Experiencing the absence of something is not evidence against its existence. I, for one, care for you deeply.”
“I pay you to care, it’s hardly the same thing. This conversation is over.” The sharp turn of her head was meant as to draw the discussion to a close, but Harlan refused to back down. He tucked the cloth away, crossing to her and taking her hands in his.
“We both know money is merely a formality. I haven’t seen you this happy in all your years here, that is not meaningless. Argue if you like, but I’ve grown stubborn in my old age, perhaps even more stubborn than you. If Mr. Out is what makes you happy, then I am happy. He should see that it stays that way or he’ll have me to answer to.” Begrudgingly, Adelaide accepted a hug from the old man.
“I’ll make sure to pass the threat along the next time I see him.”
“That’s all I ask. Good night, my dear.”
