[L is in fact free, or something like it. Mondays typically find him well-rested enough, which is fortunate, since he works. And Myr would know that, along with his typical schedule and the shop's hours. Now that Runetchers is closed for the day, L's left to wander, loiter, look for a purpose that usually leads him to the library or the Coven for private study. No matter how sleep-deprived, hungry or lonely he is, he can always cram more into a brain that remains his most impressive asset.
He still regards the watch in his hands like it's a live grenade when he hears his Bonded's voice, perhaps even considers treating it as such and lobbing it away. In the end, he masters the impulse, swallowing and clearing his throat before answering in his own carefully modulated neutral tone. What he feels through the dulled veil of their Bond is too familiar not to reach back towards.]
Yes...
[Whatever "free" means; the word carries strange and sinister connotations for one who still feels he was only ever in his element in a padded room locked behind a key code, managed by a handler when he did need to leave.]
Is there a reason you're asking?
[Because there must be. Obligatory concern, or perhaps two weeks taken to decide that an annulment would spare both of them grief in the long run. L braces and prepares for the second outcome, realizing that it will leave him wholly Bondless if (when) it occurs. He'll figure out what to do from there, of course, manage in his way, even look on the bright side of it all. No one else needs to be tied to the anchor pulling him down, and it ties up so many loose ends. There's a twisting sting to it, but it can put a placid smile on his face even if Friday isn't nearly close enough. That can sweeten his tone, and Myr will believe him when he says that he understands and wishes his dear friend well.]
It's OK. I think I know. Did... you want to meet at the Coven?
[Best to do it before fear or regret, or even reality, set in. He can salvage some grace and leave Myr with that impression, at least.]
audio;
He still regards the watch in his hands like it's a live grenade when he hears his Bonded's voice, perhaps even considers treating it as such and lobbing it away. In the end, he masters the impulse, swallowing and clearing his throat before answering in his own carefully modulated neutral tone. What he feels through the dulled veil of their Bond is too familiar not to reach back towards.]
Yes...
[Whatever "free" means; the word carries strange and sinister connotations for one who still feels he was only ever in his element in a padded room locked behind a key code, managed by a handler when he did need to leave.]
Is there a reason you're asking?
[Because there must be. Obligatory concern, or perhaps two weeks taken to decide that an annulment would spare both of them grief in the long run. L braces and prepares for the second outcome, realizing that it will leave him wholly Bondless if (when) it occurs. He'll figure out what to do from there, of course, manage in his way, even look on the bright side of it all. No one else needs to be tied to the anchor pulling him down, and it ties up so many loose ends. There's a twisting sting to it, but it can put a placid smile on his face even if Friday isn't nearly close enough. That can sweeten his tone, and Myr will believe him when he says that he understands and wishes his dear friend well.]
It's OK. I think I know. Did... you want to meet at the Coven?
[Best to do it before fear or regret, or even reality, set in. He can salvage some grace and leave Myr with that impression, at least.]