Author's Notes: I own nothing. This has spoilers for Trials&Tribulations, so I must warn! Please review if you enjoyed it!
Fine Like Wine
By LilyChan
How did the Butz end up so lucky? He really needed to count his blessings. He had two childhood friends who helped him (whether they wanted to or not) whenever he was in trouble. He also had the mature Miss Elise Deauxnim as a mentor.
Larry also had the artistic talent of a soon-to-be famous illustrator. At least that's what he believed. He was not that much of a fool like many people thought he was. He knew that women used him – he allowed himself that to happen. He knew that they didn't like them – he just wanted to see if he could break the mold.
This was one of the many reasons why he asked Miss Elise Deauxnim to be an apprentice of hers. He wanted to not only improve his craft but reflect on what kind of man he really was and the kind of man he should be. He would ask her on advice to get women. She would smile at tell him that just to be himself and be confident.
The man didn't understand what that meant. He was always himself. Cool, confident, and occasionally silly. At least, that's what he thought women liked.
"Laurence," she said as they ventured towards Hazakura Temple, "one day I may not be around. On that day," she paused to give out sad sigh, "I want you to step up for yourself. Don't step up for me or anyone else. Step up for you." She gave the brunet a smile. "Believe me, women love a man with confidence in his own ability but humble enough to know his limits."
He should've listened to her then instead of babbled about being lonely for the umpteenth time. Larry sighed as the trial went on.
He should've realized that maybe she was right. He should've listened to her. Maybe he should honor his promise to her and become a better person, but more importantly, himself.