school: otome

[shaft]

Comments

[momming]

... Mm. I imagine there is a reason. And this place seems to have expected this to happen, given the set-up. If they can make it back from daycare and we haven't figured it out yet, we can ask them.

[shaft]

Yeah, I've noticed that the other... hardships we're put through are attempts to "help". It could be something similar.

[ He sighs, noticing that he's gone tense again, and forces himself to relax. ]

It's difficult to say. But if we're able to save one another, that's good enough for me.

[momming]

...

[ She reaches up carefully now, to press her palms to his cheeks, chin once again tipped up. ]

I'm rather bad at this "getting you to relax" thing... is what I'm starting to think.

[shaft]

[ He blinks at her, surprised for a moment, before he laughs. ]

I just like to think too much. I need to keep my mind active.

[momming]

[ Her lips quirk, a little faintly. ]

I'm aware. But try to give yourself breathers every now and then, okay?

[shaft]

[ He looks a little sheepish. ]

I... guess. After five years of war, I'm not sure I remember how to switch off.

[momming]

I can offer another back rub, but I might have to start charging.

[ She's kidding. ]

[shaft]

I think I'm all right.

[ He hums. ]

Besides, it's hard to take that advice from a doctor that never steps off the clock.

[momming]

[ ... this mock-indignation might work better if he couldn't sense her amusement. And a little bit of embarrassment for the call-out. ]

I'm off the clock right now, you know!

[shaft]

So you're concern about my relaxation is off the clock behaviour?

[momming]

... [ She flicks his forehead. ]

You're teasing me a little too much.

[shaft]

[ He is duly reprimanded, but the vibes are still fond. ]

I want you to relax as much as you want me to. You've more than earned it.

[momming]

Yes, well, I'll...

[ She sighs, a bit wearily. ]

I'll do my best.