[video] rebel without a cause

[maddest]

What an exciting week!

In light of all the discussion, Adstringendum, let's chat- who would you trust to nominate as ombudsman?

Comments

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[al_truism]

It wasn't just your eyes he healed?

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

For now, yes, but I'm going to let him get the rest soon.

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[al_truism]

[For it to be that bad... Al pauses. He wishes Break would allow more closeness, because he aches to hug him right now. Instead he steps to the side of the table and puts a hand over Break's, looking out the window.]

I'm glad. Especially before the nights get cold.

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

Last winter, I couldn't breathe outside. I kept asking people over for tea- and carefully disguised the fact that I hadn't left the house in months.

[Offline]

[al_truism]

I remember. All of you was so cold, I was so afraid you'd freeze to death no matter how many blankets or coats you had.

[... he goes silent, thinking of how Al's coat had shown back up on his doorstep.]

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

I nearly did, a few times.

[A laugh.]

Katara still hasn't forgiven me. But someone has to understand- I couldn't do that again.

[Offline]

[al_truism]

[Though Break doesn't give away too much from his expressions, Al's learned what to look for.]

... is it all right to hug you right now?

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

Yes. And Al?

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[al_truism]

Mmn?

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

When I told you to ask it was for a reason, remember?

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[al_truism]

Yes.

[Softly. He remembers well.]

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

It's all right if you don't any more. I've- recovered from my little condition.

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[al_truism]

[Al smiles, a little shaky because he's still not sure what's okay and what isn't, but it's a relief to know that he's not causing Break pain.

He leans over the back of Break's chair and hugs him around the shoulders, warm and heartfelt. Most of the normal hesitancy has gone.]

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

[He returns it.]

Thank you.

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[al_truism]

For what?

[Close. The lack of physical affection is difficult for him. Give him a few moments to make up for lost time.]

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

Putting up with me as I healed.

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[al_truism]

... you're important to me.

[Softly, into his shoulder.]

You have been nearly since day one. I don't mind something like that.

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

You're a very good friend.

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[al_truism]

Not always. I messed up a lot with you.

[Caused him pain. He gives Break a soft squeeze.]

Thank you for being patient with me, too.

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

That's fine.

Keep my nasty little secrets?

[Offline]

[al_truism]

[Al grins, squeezing his shoulder before straightening up.]

Every last one.

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[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

And don't go listening over my old posts and using my tricks against me.

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[al_truism]

I wouldn't be able to fool you anyhow.

[Al has a terrible time hiding things from anyone at all.]

[Offline]

[mister-hatter.livejournal.com]

Spread your words.

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[al_truism]

An example?