Delbert had hoped Lyle could stay and keep him company until Amelia arrived home – more as a buffer to diffuse the uncertainty he felt about rummaging around her house while she was away – but the young Felid had politely apologized and informed the Doctor he had previous plans that he simply couldn't cancel.
So, Delbert found himself wandering inside the imposing Captain's home, wondering just how comfortable he ought to make himself. He didn't want to pry, but he had always been a curious man, and it was starting to get the better of him. Finally deciding if Amelia hadn't wanted him to be here, she wouldn't have invited him, he gave in to his impulses and began to make his way through the modest, yet orderly house.
Entering the doorway immediately to his right, Delbert stumbled upon the kitchen. He was amazed to see a large number of pots and pans hanging from a rack that descended from the ceiling. Having never imagined Amelia to be one who cooked, he was surprised to find a rather extensive collection of fine cutlery and cookware. He momentarily wondered if she was as meticulous in her culinary forays as she was in her nautical dealings and then quickly scolded himself for such an asinine thought.
Of course she would be, he realized. Amelia never did anything in half measures. Why would cooking be any different? For that matter, why would any objective she chose to pursue not merit her dogged, if she would excuse the pun, determination and sheer tenacity in pursuing that desire until she attained it. He suddenly found himself giddy at the thought of being such an objective.
A peek inside Amelia's pantry revealed a penchant for several cuisines she'd no doubt acquired during her travels through the stars, and he couldn't help grinning when he also saw Canid delicacies he'd specifically introduced her to during their time together.
As he made his way back to the hallway, he noticed several doors lining the narrow corridor. He assumed they probably led to bathrooms, studies and hall closets. Spying a lone door at the far end, he recalled Amelia once mentioning that her bedroom was situated at the end of her home. His heart quickened when he remembered the tantalizing glimpse he had been given of that hallowed room during his journey to the Taurus Nebula. He had dreamt sweetly after their call had ended and had been haunted by thoughts of someday seeing it for himself. He briefly wondered if he'd be so fortunate to do so this day before scolding himself for entertaining such an ungentlemanly thought.
The door directly to his left creaked slightly causing Delbert to jump and reign his wandering mind back in. Taking a step closer, he placed a tentative hand on the knob and gently pushed it inward. Ivory carpet, so plush that his feet sank into it, adorned the floor and dark red curtains framed a large garden tub that set directly in the center of the bath. Deciding to take advantage of the facilities, Delbert closed the door and moved to the sink to freshen. Splashing cool water on his face and lightly cleaning his ears, he closed his eyes and savored the luxury of having fresh water again. When he emerged a few moments later, he felt like a new man. He always hated the nitty-gritty appearance one assumed after traveling through the Etherium, and he was pleased that he would now be able to greet Amelia a touch less grimy than before.
Leaving his bag by the wash door, he strolled into the parlor and was immediately arrested by the sight that greeted him. Books – so many books! – lined the south wall of Amelia's den. From ceiling to floor, the bookshelf was filled with every size, color and title imaginable. He knew Amelia loved to read – that was something she had disclosed early on their relationship – but he had no idea that her collection was this extensive. As he drew closer, his eyes raked over the many titles, seeing nautical histories, books on astronomy, star charts, history of the planets in and outside the Etherium, classic seafaring adventures and more. He was startled to discover that Amelia owned several collected works of poets he, too, enjoyed. Kennedy, Stevenson, Donne, Morin – they were all there. She had never mentioned a love of poetry. He smiled as he realized there was still so much for him to learn about her.
Glancing toward the fireplace, he saw several pictures displayed on the mantel and stepped near to inspect them more closely. The one nearest to him showed a young girl, hair pulled tightly in two pigtails, grinning wide at the camera, two front teeth missing. Her expression was adorable, Delbert admitted to himself, instantly recognizing Amelia in her younger days. The man next to her was undoubtedly her father. The tall, lean figure had an easy smile and laughter was dancing in his eyes. It was easy to see that as Amelia grew up, she had physically favored her father. The next photo was of Amelia in an Academy uniform. Her hair was neatly tucked under a hat, and the crisp lines of her jacket shone even from behind the glass frame. She wore a serious expression, and Doppler quickly understood why she had graduated top of her class. It appeared that, even then, Amelia knew exactly what image was necessary to secure the status and footing necessary to be a successful captain.
When his eyes landed on the last photo propped on the mantle, Delbert felt his breath catch, and he grew still. It was a portrait of him, and he instantly recalled the day it had been taken. It had been shortly after returning from Treasure Planet. He'd invited Amelia back to his home after a day spent at The Gardens, and she'd suggested they walk along the beach that lay far below the cliff on which his home sat. As they walked along the rocks lining the craggy shore and exchanged pleasantries, Delbert had been struck with the realization of how easy it was to talk to her. He found himself wanting more moments such as this one, and wondered if that was even possible. Amelia, oblivious to his musings, had suddenly reached over and grabbed the small camera he was carrying. Ordering him to smile, she'd snapped a careless photo of him standing in front of the surf.
Looking at it now, he had to admit it had turned out quite well. The joy that radiated from him had been captured in that single moment. But what was more important to him than that was the fact that she had placed it alongside pictures that held sentimental value to and were ones she obviously treasured. The significance of it was not lost on Doppler, and he felt a lump form in his throat.
He would have continued to ponder this startling revelation more, but a noise from the front hall caught his attention, and he turned, ears cocked as the door slowly creaked open. Someone was obviously home.
"Amelia, is that you?" he called out hesitantly. A flash of fiery hair trailing through the corridor confirmed that, indeed, it was Amelia.
"Just a minute, Delbert. I'll be with you in a moment," she called out. Delbert stood, waiting. He heard a door shut a second later and then, the unmistakable sound of running water emanated from the bathroom in the front hallway.
"I suppose I'll make myself comfortable," he said to no one in particular. Sitting down, he deposited his lanky frame on the large, overstuffed couch. So many questions, he reflected. But for now, they'd have to wait. Amelia was home, and he would have better things to do with his time once she was ensconced in his arms again.