[How strange, to be seen in such a way and have it lauded rather than discouraged. A jaded thought, perhaps, but those years with Ariel had made him more than a bit self-conscious about his heart's natural inclinations. It had, for a time, made it harder to trust— but it had never quite managed to make him cynical in this regard, much as he might have tried to pretend otherwise for awhile.

His heart had a knack for getting him into trouble, but he was certain Amelia was well worth it.

He follows Berna's lead just half a step behind, his hands deep in his jacket pockets, his gaze moving to the pieces on display as they talk.]

She has her reasons.

[Reasons that he's starting to better understand.]

I've done my own share of hiding, too. It can take time to be ready to face the obvious. As for danger, there are some things that are well worth the risk.