vermax | SALT

( the door is unlocked and though Baela knocks, Jace doesn't expect there is a need for her to. there is nothing that he's hiding, not now.

seated by a table, he is actually reading the book in front of him -- a history of the nation they are supposedly occupying thus. in it, Jace hopes to find some answers about what sort of people the Balfours are.

but once his betrothed is in the room, his attention focuses solely on her. Jace flips his hand, interlacing their fingers, ) Is there something happening outside of our family?

( it is a jest. after all, there's plenty going on even if one small fight - or the threat of - has caused upheaval for many connected to his family. the question, though, is another matter. ) I am not sure, if I am honest. For all the warnings we have received, the place seems harmless enough these last few days. And yet... we cannot ignore what it may do or require of us.

( so... conflicted and confused. )

( her eyes go to the book as he sets it down. she doesn't recognize the place the book speaks of, but she has no doubt that if it's a history book then Jace is reading on the history of this place. she'll have to borrow it when she's done, and find similar like it in the Library.

but she for now she focuses on the immediate. her fingers lace with his and she lets his warmth settle her as it always does.

she nods her head as he mentions the dangers she was referring to. )

I agree. This place could almost be a paradise... but the things the others have described leave me wary.

( here she hesitates, something unusual for her. this is a topic they've not really broached yet. there's been no time to think on it before now. now there seems to be nothing but time... )

There's a thought that's been occupying me, though, on the subject. ( and suddenly she's sharply aware of his hand in hers. ) On the topic of the drink and food driving us to acts with other people in the manor.

What thought? ( he presses, though Jace's words remain gentle still. the topic is a delicate one, though they are to one day be husband and wife and many in their position would not have put the same weight to precedent and prudence that they have.

perhaps if they were different people, perhaps if Jace held Baela in less esteem but she sits above nearly all.

he shifts his hand again, squeezing hers before lifting the other so her small hand is cupped in both of his. ) I would not allow anything to happen, anything you do not want. I know you can protect yourself, Baela, but you have me too if someone tries to cross a line. Compelled or not.

Edited 2024-09-30 06:31 (UTC)

( ooph she actually has to voice the thought now.

how silly it is that something that's felt so natural before this moment suddenly feels so unknown. her fingers curl into the palms of his hands as she takes in a breath. )

I know. ( she smiles with her whole heart. ) I always know you're there at my side. I never doubt that.

( her eyes drop as boldness flits in and out of her heart. she catches it and finally gets the words out. ) I do not desire for my first kiss to be compelled, regardless of who it is compelled with.

( there is a moment when Jace isn't sure what could worry her then, what could be of concern. then Baela speaks and though he should see it coming, Jace feels his cheeks heat.

it is not that he has not thought about it, has not wanted it. it is that they had decided together to wait for their wedding, had promised to do right by one another. but here? in this place? there may be no choice.

his smile is gentle still and he reaches out, a hand cupping her cheek. it is a bold move but she has brought this to him. ) Then perhaps we ensure that it is not?

SALT | inbox

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject