Rainn paused thoughtfully.
Her hand lay there, extended across the table. Grace had her head resting on her other arm, clearly fatigued from a long day spent accompanying him. He was aware that he was not easy to follow; both his clients and colleagues often muttered as much when they believed he could not hear them. Yet she managed to keep pace with him throughout days filled with lectures, experiments, and note-taking. Despite none of it being particularly thrilling or enjoyable, she remained by his side.
As a gesture of politeness and gratitude for her assistance, Rainn decided to treat Grace to her favourite restaurant. Although he did not favour the relaxed atmosphere of the place, she appreciated it, so he tolerated the curious looks directed at his stern demeanour and formal attire.
Initially, she appeared enthusiastic upon their arrival, but the day's exertions and the serene ambiance of the restaurant led her to stretch out across the table as they awaited their meals. Now, Rainn found himself staring at her open palm, his own hands clasped in his lap as he contemplated his next move.
What would her hand feel like? It appeared soft and warm...
Rainn sighed inwardly. He was not accustomed to considering the sensation of another person's skin, usually preferring to maintain distance. However, her consistent presence had eased Grace past those barriers, into unfamiliar territory even for him. He was uncertain how to handle this newfound desire for touch, for smiles, and for laughter.
Perhaps this explained why he willingly treated her, perhaps even indulged her, unlike with other acquaintances. She had established herself as more than an acquaintance, and now he was compensating her for her efforts, possibly even expressing gratitude. It was rare for him to acknowledge his own loneliness.
The lawyer's hand twitched slightly. This was a risk, one with an unpredictable outcome. While he doubted she would mind, and she would likely not withdraw her hand, he pondered if she might tolerate it merely to please him. This was not desirable either.
Hesitation was uncharacteristic for him. Even if he did not fully understand his own desires, others existed to fulfil them, so why should he not act? He could consider it an experiment, an attempt to emulate those driven by emotions to act on their whims.
Rainn gingerly placed his palm against hers. Her head moved slightly, glancing up to confirm the identity of the individual now holding her hand. Upon recognizing him, her head lowered once more, a faint smile forming on her lips.
How peculiar. His heart rate increased.
Rainn resolved to conduct further experimentation, to gain a better understanding. And to continue witnessing those endearing small smiles of hers, though he would never openly admit it.