[ the hand on falco’s lap, still cradling the prized dreamcatching falcon, holds the gift tighter around the wings and body while his remaining hand grips paul’s own firming but gentle grasp for a second— a second that begins the blooming change in his expression that immediately gives way. his brows pinch higher, his eyes seem to water and his lips feel tight against each other. they look so, but the more he seals them, the more he feels they could begin to tremble.
he’s the one usually out there trying to change something, fighting, investigating— he’s met so many older figures by now. some come from a similar background, and think it’s important to fight. some would care for him but would give him the liberty to act. very few have gone out of their way to fully protect him. he can remember only one instance: home, and nowhere else. annie had locked him and gabi in a ship’s quarters, to keep them from interfering. was that a good thing or—? falco knew the panic he’d felt when wanting to get out, wanting to do something because he could and, annie did eventually, but when she didn’t—
somehow, this felt slightly more different. the reason for the start of tears (that luckily dry before becoming too large and falling off his cheeks) is from being moved by paul’s consideration and protection, even more, friendship. when gabi had questioned his actions while on paradis— his heart felt a similar jump. why did you come? i don’t want you to die.
falco knew his answer, but would keep it to himself until it was time to answer, if that time would ever come to pass. ]
Paul . . . [ he’s not added the mister, possibly because this feels too intimate for formalities. it was like he was talking to . . .
he halts the thought before the sting at the bridge of his nose grows stronger. he swallows tight and nods, but asks: ] What can I do?
no subject
he’s the one usually out there trying to change something, fighting, investigating— he’s met so many older figures by now. some come from a similar background, and think it’s important to fight. some would care for him but would give him the liberty to act. very few have gone out of their way to fully protect him. he can remember only one instance: home, and nowhere else. annie had locked him and gabi in a ship’s quarters, to keep them from interfering. was that a good thing or—? falco knew the panic he’d felt when wanting to get out, wanting to do something because he could and, annie did eventually, but when she didn’t—
somehow, this felt slightly more different. the reason for the start of tears (that luckily dry before becoming too large and falling off his cheeks) is from being moved by paul’s consideration and protection, even more, friendship. when gabi had questioned his actions while on paradis— his heart felt a similar jump. why did you come? i don’t want you to die.
falco knew his answer, but would keep it to himself until it was time to answer, if that time would ever come to pass. ]
Paul . . . [ he’s not added the mister, possibly because this feels too intimate for formalities. it was like he was talking to . . .
he halts the thought before the sting at the bridge of his nose grows stronger. he swallows tight and nods, but asks: ] What can I do?