Part 2 of 5
He smiles, "Yes, it is, rather. There's much more to consider other than the choice of writing implement when choosing a life partner. The colour of their ink choice, perhaps."
Her lips are parted to agree to whatever his response will be but then she freezes mid-breath in amazement. When he lifts an eyebrow at her, she erupts in girlish laughter, "Oh, Richard! You made a joke! I didn't think you knew how to tease people, I really didn't. You seem so formal and reserved…" time for another tiny test "… sad, almost. I worried about you, you know."
He had risen to his feet during her response but now he stills, looking down at her, "Sad? Me? How do you mean?"
She lowers her eyes, fidgeting slightly, "Well, I had no right to think it but I couldn't help notice that you're all alone here. You're vital to our safety and the public good, you take care of us... but… who takes care of you, Richard? Does anyone look after you at all?"
His eyes haze briefly, as if he's giving this almost-innocent question much consideration before he gives a little start and ignores it, "Now, Georgie, is there anything else I can do for you?"
She shivers demurely. Yes, please! There's a LOT you can do for me! but her voice is level as she replies, "Yes, there is, and I apologize for my impertinence, please forgive me." He waves a mannerly hand, just a loyal public servant doing his duty. She hugs a quiet breath, "Well, I'm a bit afraid to go home. I have my keys so that's no problem but I'm anxious about someone lurking about, trying to get in." She sits up suddenly, a hand to her throat, "Oh, Richard! What if they're already inside? What if they hurt Harry?"
He lays a warm hand on her shoulder and she almost forgets herself, almost leans into his touch. "I'm sure there's no danger, Georgie, but I would be remiss if I didn't escort you home to make sure you're safe. Come on, let's go. It's a pleasant day for a stroll down to the main street where we can hail a cab."
His hand is out to her and she takes it with silent thanks as he draws her to her feet. She smiles, "Thank you, Richard. You're so good." As she takes his arm and they go out the door, she can't help but add, "Great-aunt would be so pleased to know I've finally met a nice man."
He smiles back a little sadly, "Yes, that's me, a nice man. I only wish certain other people thought so too."
This doesn't best please her but she can't puzzle out why. As they descend the steps, she says, "Some people are blind to what's right in front of them. Fortune favours the bold but bold men can be so tiresome. A nice quiet man is so much better." He nods and doesn't reply but she's sure he heard her. They walk three blocks, find a cab, and within minutes they're at her gate. He insists she remain there in safety while he mounts the stairs. When he calls down the all clear, she goes up to join him at the front door.
He cocks his head, "I hear Harry moving inside but he isn't barking. That's a good sign, isn't it?"
She slips her key out of her pocket, "Yes, it is. He knows you're a friend and welcome any time." As she unlocks her front door, she sees him admiring her telescope and laughs, "Oh, I see you've made the acquaintance of 'Tangerine Dream'. Isn't he lovely?"
He nods as he steps in front, gesturing that he will enter first, "Yes, he is indeed lovely. As is mine but I call her 'Lucy'. Now, if you will be so kind?" She nods and allows him passage. He pops back out a minute later, "Harry and I checked, all you windows and doors are secure and there's no one inside. And look what I found behind your sofa."
He holds up her purse.
END – part 2