miragoshawk:
Perhaps it was foolish to head to the ministry when things were no doubt in upheaval, but Miranda had always sought to keep her commitments, and she had reluctantly agreed to drop off some paperwork to the education secretary, a very brief explanation documenting her intentions with her school book. She’d promised to do it right after the New Year, and so there she was, heading into the Ministry despite the chaos. Her senses were heightened, eyes scanning the entryway for any sign of trouble. There were too many people here for it being such an intense time, but Mira intended to be in and out as quickly as possible.
That was until Achilles snapped at her. Her eyes narrowed, frown deepening. It was different to see him this way, after New Years had been so very different. “You want to try again?” Miranda pressed, lips pressed together in a frown though she moved to the left anyway, understanding he was no doubt under an intense amount of stress. “Achilles,” She added, softer, “It’s good to see you,” She admitted, thankful to know he was alright in all this mess, even if he was clearly in a mood. “Are you alright?” She added, hoping to give him the opportunity to vent if he needed it.
Very few people could ever put him in his place. Or, at least make him see that perhaps a path he was heading down was perhaps a bit too much Louisiana male and not civilised Government worker. Achilles would never admit that Mira had that power to make him reconsider his actions so quickly. No one, with exception of his mother, had even come close in nearly fifteen years. Not since Audrey, who’d been her own brand of fire cracker and strong enough to even make Achilles heel when needed.
But still, now, with his blood still rushing and the itch to get out there and start crushing skulls and spitting blood faded the moment she spoke and he bit on his tongue to stop him arguing back straight away. Through his distraction, he’d stopped seeing faces and just blurs and he cleared his throat, eyes narrowed still slightly but he took a breath. “I’m sorry, ma’m. Tensions are high, but it’s good to see you.” he replied, tone less gravelly than before. On instinct, his hand reached out and grabbed her elbow -nicely- to move them out of direct sight in the corridor and into one of the smaller alcoves.
He couldn’t show weakness or distraction, not when eyes were everywhere. But at least here he could will his temper down and stare into the eyes of Mira and simply breathe.
“I’m fine, okay, just give me a minute.” he murmured, hand remaining on her elbow as his other settled on her waist as he used her to ground himself further. He wasn’t, no one was fine, but it would be enough for now. At least until the rage had moved past him and he could give her a proper answer.















