Amulet (Janice)

Sean overheard her thought, and he considered the opinion flattering. Most people didn’t share Janice’s opinion of their relationship (at least when confronted with concrete examples as opposed to an abstract happiness for their general couplehood), particularly those who had seen him and Josh drink together at parties. They were two middle-aged men, and despite their attraction to one another, neither of them fit the societal ideals of “sexiness.” Still, the telepath was glad that they had one another, and his long-term goal was to help Josh cope with his high levels of anxiety.

One step at a time.

Sean then nodded to show that he did know, and that he also sympathized with her plight. “Josh told me,” he said, his expression also conveying sympathy for her. “He’s assured me that everything Vincent touched needs to be redone, and I can’t say that I’m surprised. At best, his ‘assistance’ is disastrous. At worst...” There was a reason that Vincent Verax’s name was notorious at Hammel.

Sean then smiled, encouraging the idea. “You should go and take him along. Monetary donations are always helpful around the holidays to pay for necessities, but the presents go a long way too.” The telepath had been fortunate enough to come from a family of means; he had never wanted for toys as a child. His unmet needs had been less tangible, all related to his telepathy and the inevitable consequences. “You could make a child or too very happy.”

That was the point of the holidays.

Sean’s expression turned knowing. Part of his side effects were that such matters were available to him all of the time, even if he wasn’t interested. However, he was glad that her relationship with Mason was going well, and he believed that everyone should take advantage of the fun atmosphere of the Bash as long as pants remained on. Even he and Josh could manage that. “I hope you have a great time, and I’ll look forward to seeing you there.”

He understood why it would evoke her curiosity, even if it was less interesting to him because it was his life and his job. “The grass is always greener,” he reminded her. “But if I can answer something, I will. To help satisfy your curiosity.”