December Event: Pilot Ridge Holiday Bash

[Dr. Sean Neville]

To spare Clarisse’s dignity, Sean didn’t comment on what had happened between her and Darryl or on her disheveled appearance: her reddened eyes, her stressed posture. She knew what had happened; he had seen what had happened, and there was no reason to acknowledge it formally. The confrontation hadn’t involved the telepath, and it hadn’t been about the telepath, and thus he took his general life approach and pretended that nothing had happened for the sake of conversation.

And while her expression was one of apology, he responded with gentle patience, attempting to absolve her of any guilt she felt about abandoning him. If anything, he didn’t like the idea of making anyone he had taken somewhere walk back, even if they were leaving with someone else. He looked over at their Jake Dalton, acknowledging that the other man would be able to safely escort her home, if that was what she wanted. “You don’t have to apologize; I certainly don’t take any offense. And I’m sure Jake will get you home safe.”

He gave her another smile when she felt her touch. “You also don’t have to make it up to me, but I’ve never turned down French toast, and I don’t see myself turning it down in the future. Only if you want to though, and only if you’ll join me for breakfast.” He never felt right having people cook for them if they wouldn’t at least share in the spoils. He moved one large hand to covers hers on his opposite arm. Speaking more quietly, he added, “Call me if you need anything, all right?”

He turned his head to glance at Dalton again and noticed that the circle around Morgan and his date had dissipated. Not only had the strange couple left, but so had Elaine and Cobalt. He needed to talk to Elaine, and so he made a mental note to either visit her or get her phone number from Morgan later.

[Jacob Dalton]

<< “Jake…I--” Honestly, she didn’t know what to say. So she simply closed her eyes and laid her hand on his arm. “Thank you.” She said quietly… >>

“Don’t mention it,” he replied, gladly accepting her hand on his arm and leading the way back through the crowd to where they had last seen Sean at the bar.

<< . “I…I think I’ll just be heading home. The walk isn’t far, and Miste---“ She paused, looking up at Dalton. “Jake. Has offered to escort me out.” >>

Dalton would perhaps have spoken up at that point to assure Sean of the sincerity of his offer, but hearing the catch in Clarisse’s voice and seeing the look in her eyes as she gazed up at him left him momentarily mute with appreciation.

<< “You don’t have to apologize; I certainly don’t take any offense. And I’m sure Jake will get you home safe.” >>

He nodded to Sean. “Rest assured that I shall. I offered to drive her, but the lady would prefer some air. Whom am I to refuse?”

He tried to keep a smile from his face as the two bantered over breakfast. French toast? He would have to keep that in mind.

It was good to see that Sean and Clarisse seemed to get along well. Dalton had had only a brief visit with Sean on his first day, but it was enough for him to like the man and respect his judgment. Dalton was careful not to impose on their discussion: obviously Clarisse was comforted speaking with Sean as a friend.

Once the two had finished speaking, Dalton led the way once more to the coat check: after all, he needed to retrieve his fedora and his own coat even if they were not now checking hers. Once he had his own coat back he donned it at once, then turned to Clarisse, holding hers open for her.

“Allow me? If you have no wish to ride, at least let me assure that you shall not catch cold from our excursion.” He was happy to assist her to prepare for the outdoors, and once she was properly set, he once again extended his arm.

“And so: let us see what the evening has yet in store, shall we?” And with a smile, he led the way into the night…

[Event !]

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