AUDIENCE FOR: Rupert

[guestservices]

Comments

[guestservices]

In my defense. He's an idiot.

[THAT'S. NOT A DEFENSE?]

[agleam]

Who is he?

[guestservices]

[...]

Boyfriend, now. That was a while ago when we were still getting to know each other.

[agleam]

[he pauses, frowning.]

But... He isn't here with you? Or, is he one of the other staff?

[guestservices]

Dating your coworkers sounds like a terrible idea, Rupert. [dryly. ] Anyway it doesn't really matter. We've gotten used to being separated.

[agleam]

I'd say it still matters... I'm sorry to hear that.

[guestservices]

[...there's just. a tired sigh.]

Yeah, well. Can't do much with it. Thanks though. [. . .] But let's just pretend that didn't happen, okay?

[agleam]

What, the memory?

[tilting his head.]

One could argue you didn't pretend mine didn't happen... [shut up rupert. anyways, it's clear he's joking when he continues on.] Secret's safe with me.

[guestservices]

That's different and I'll happily stop making fun of you in exchange. [they will not, but for now they seem almost melancholy about it.] But it's appreciated.

[agleam]

Ha - done deal, then.

[but, after a moment:]

...You okay?

[guestservices]

[. . .]

Well enough. It'll be fine.

[agleam]

Okay.

[all the same:]

I'm sorry that you're not together, right now.

[guestservices]

...mm. Kinda feel like I should say that about you instead?

[agleam]

You should!

[rupert]

But that doesn't mean I can't say it, too.

[guestservices]

Okay. Then...here's to mutual sympathy or whatever.

[agleam]

[he snorts, a little amused, before he nods.]

Here's to mutual sympathy.

[guestservices]

[...they scratch their cheek. ]

Anyway...now that that's over with. Wanna do something else much less awkward?

[agleam]

Sure. Did you have something in mind?

[guestservices]

Well...how much are you gonna hate suggesting we head to Wiwaldi?

[agleam]

[he snorts.]

Actually, I wouldn't really mind at all. You ready now?

[guestservices]

Sure. I could stand getting out for a while, but maybe you should lead.

[agleam]

Ha, sure, I can play tour guide.

[off they go towards the door!]

[guestservices]

[they fall into step!]

Pretty sure I could figure stuff out myself, but it's been a while since I've been to a school.

[agleam]

[off they go through the door! and they come out into the rock wall and lazy river combo.]

...Huh. You know, I don't think I really got the chance to see this place.

[guestservices]

Because you were in the daycare by then? Or you just never came by?

[they are looking up at the wall.]