RUPERT

[rosebleed]

I'd say i'll put things here later but that's a lie

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[rosebleed]

If you're sure?

[Because she would. Want to. It would be disgraceful to walk away from him when he's in this state.]

...I was curfewing at the pool. Maya was there. We all woke up soaked. Maybe something splashed on us.

[agleam]

I'm sure.

[pausing, taking a breath.]

I meant to stay with her last night... It just seemed pretty full in there, so we split off. [he wishes he didn't, now, but he takes a breath.] How was she doing?

[rosebleed]

[the way i was absent all curfew]

She was her usual self. [A beat.] I'm glad that she had a night where she might have a bit of fun. But...Oh Rupert, I'm very sorry. But the moments before aren't the measure of a friendship, okay?

You may not have been with her last night, but you've been with her this whole time. Please don't berate yourself for it.

[agleam]

No - I'm not berating myself, I promise.

[honestly, even if he doesn't quite make eye contact.]

[rosebleed]

All right.

[Though she doesn't quite believe it. Rosamund watches him a moment, debating.]

Rupert, would you like a hug?

[agleam]

[after a moment of surprise:]

...I'd really, really like a hug.

[shakes you down though!!]

[rosebleed]

[Stop shaking me!!!!!!

But oh. Sweet boy. Rosamund smiles, a little teary eyed as she moves in and envelopes him in a soft and warm hug.]

Honestly? Me too.

[agleam]

[tucking his face into her shoulder, carefully]

I hate it here.

[rosebleed]

[he can claim all the shoulder real estate he wants. Rosamund will hold him tight.]

We all do. And I'm sorry that you have to go through this all again.