Morning group just ended for the day. Most of the patients had already filtered out of the room, leaving Edelgard and Hubert alone at the big, long table. They were in no hurry to leave. Right now was the short time period between group and lunch break. Edelgard was content to lounge a little bit longer in the group room, watching Ms. Dr. Eisner erase the whiteboard and collect neglected papers.
Hubert had also remained at the table. Edelgard didn't mind his presence. He was quiet, and generally reserved despite his psychoses. Today, he seemed a little nervous about something. He fiddled with the hem of his shirt, and looked like he was about to say something. Edelgard waited patiently.
"Why do you think that man says his name so much?" asked Hubert, sounding stressed.
"Who, Ferdinand?"
"Yes, Ferdinand von Aegir. Do you think it's because he isn't really Ferdinand von Aegir? That he's just trying to convince us that he is Ferdinand von Aegir and hopes that by saying it over and over again we will be more convinced?" Hubert's foot was shaking under the table. The "tap tap" of his heel on the carpet only seemed to accentuate his nervous energy.
"I don't know about that Hubert," Edelgard said.
"If he's not Ferdinand von Aegir, then who is he really? And what is he doing here? Did he come here to make someone else's life more miserable than it already is, or maybe to kill someone when they wern't expecting it?"
"Hubert," Edlegard called gently. She extended her hand across the table to him, palm open, offering him the comfort of touch if he chose to take it. "I don't think Ferdinand is out to get anyone, especially you. I think he is very sick, and far too self absorbed to be interested in harming anyone."
"But that's just it, isn't it? He's already set up the perfect cover for his nefarious schemes."
Edelgard didn't know what to say. It was like all reasonable logic was instantly rejected by the nervous man next to her.
"Hubert," said the quiet Ms. Dr. Eisner said. "What do you think is more likely? That a man with strange behaviors came to a mental hospital with the intention of hurting someone or healing."
Hubert took a deep breath, closing his eyes for a moment. When he opened them again he looked a little more grounded. "Yes, doctor, you're right. I'm sorry, Edelgard, sometimes I get a little carried away." He reached out and took her hand, squeezing gently.
"It's fine Hubert. I'm glad you felt safe enough to confide in me." Edelgard wasn't familiar with the feeling of being someone's confidant. She didn't remember very well how close she had been with her ten siblings. It was hard to think about them; wondering if they were dead or out there somewhere trapped and abused like she had been. She was the only one of her siblings that had been found and rescued after being abducted many years ago. However, she decided that she liked the feeling of companionship.
"Would you like to eat lunch with me today Hubert? My father isn't planning on visiting today and I fear it will make lunch a rather lonely affair," Edelgard asked.
Hubert paused for a moment, glancing at Ms. Dr. Eisner, who nodded encouragingly. "That sounds… pleasant. I think I will take you up on your offer, Edelgard."