A Holiday by Decree

~~ Day 5 ~~

One thing about Tyrion's age was that he finally had the perspective of experience on his side. Unfortunately, that also meant he knew the cost of not being able or willing to seek help. As a one time sibling he also knew all too well how two personalities could conflict, but that didn't mean your sibling couldn't come through for you, if given the chance.

"If you'll allow me to say it, my Lady, you are also still young. (As predicted, Sansa made a face - he made a note that she obviously did not like to be reminded of her age - but that wasn't important to his point now, so Tyrion made a face back and continued.) You're strong, but also deserve more assistance to solve the problems you face. I understand your reticence, but why not see if Arya may help you shoulder this burden? If nothing else, perhaps she'll have an idea you haven't thought of?"

Sansa sighed as she leaned back in her chair. She had kicked off her sandals and sat with one knee up to her chest, much as she did their first day at the table in the rain. "I'm sure you are right, but I think we may be avoiding our real issue - Lord Hand of Westeros, what solutions have you generated for how two complex people, such as ourselves, might court?" she asked.

Tyrion couldn't help but feel an excited tingling at the slight pertness that had entered Sansa's voice. Her lips had turned into a slightly roguish smile, the likes of which Tyrion had rarely been treated to from her. This was still very much the no-nonsense Sansa he admired and respected, but his attraction was mounting quickly to the glimpses of this side of her.

The thrill of it seemed to signal a sudden flight response though. He fell back on a self-effacing joke: "I'm sorry, my Lady. I'm afraid I'm rather famous at this point for being far better at solving other people's problems than my own. The treacherous seas of my romantic life have left me with the unconscious reflex to look for safer waters."

He swallowed down some iced tea to badly cover his nervousness, but Sansa agreed before doing the same, "I'm afraid, I know what you mean all too well."

They observed and applauded politely, as the musicians finished another tune and rose for a break before Sansa turned back to him, "Then, I think there's maybe only one thing to do given the current set of circumstances."

"Oh?" Tyrion managed. The way she was looking at him had him sweating from more than just the hot weather.

A flash in her ice blue eyes left him feeling no cooler: "What do you say if we chance it for once and just see where it goes?" she asked.

:

Dear Jon,

Thank you for checking in. Indeed, Tyrion is here. The company is welcome. Resting well.

Having a very pleasant time,

Sansa