Two worlds, one family--

[mombastic]

[ It's strange to be in a world with not one set of memories from another world-- not two, but three, not that Otome can really discuss this with anyone. It's difficult enough, when she wakes up these days, and can't remember if she's in her own home, or her apartment. If she needs to call Fumi to check on preparations for the day, or...

But no. This is her world. And not a school day, so she's stuck trying to focus not on what she's missing or what she's lost, but on what lies ahead.

What that actually is, she doesn't know, but she's out and about today, and there's a strong breeze. Maybe today will be a good day for clearing her thoughts. ]

Comments

[mombastic]

...

I think you're giving me too much credit, simply. All I really wanted to do was help you, Leon.

[ If that makes her remarkable, it's a little sad. ]

[discard]

[That's definitely one of the things that makes her remarkable, sorry, Otome.]

...Aside from Stahn and Marian, you are the first person who...really did, I believe.

[mombastic]

... Well. [ with a small huff. ] Then that's just a waste. You're perfectly worthy of it.

[discard]

[Otome....]

That is just like you as well--

[A beat, and hastily:]

Not...that I disbelieve you. [He's improving!] It is simply very like you as you are to think so.

[mombastic]

[ ... She's so proud. ]

I don't say anything I don't mean, after all. I'm just sorry apparently no one's bothered to make an effort to try and understand you better.

[discard]

[Otome...]

I can admit I did not make such things very easy.

[He was kind of a prickly asshole.

...He still is kind of a prickly asshole.]

[mombastic]

Yes, well, neither did Fumi. I don't think there's anyone not worth trying to understand, even if you might have made it difficult.

[discard]

[... Honestly.]

And this is why you are so--

[MOM.

THIS IS WHY YOU'RE MOM]

I...assure you I shall try to avoid being so difficult in the future.

[mombastic]

I understand you well enough now! And I think it was well worth the effort, anyway. I got a son I'm very proud of, after all.

[ And that's the best reward. ]

[discard]

[.... MOM....

He flushes, ducking his head.]

... I would...

[Give him a moment, this is A Lot for him to admit to.]

I would...like to...do what I can to make you proud, Otome.

[mombastic]

... [ She's just going to rest a hand on his shoulder. ]

You've already done that, Leon. And you continue to make me proud every day.

[discard]

[...He feels like he's getting too emotional here, but...it's hard.

When she says things like that so simply and clearly, he really feels like...there's a purpose behind what he's doing here. Even if it's just living to live, and to make Otome proud...he's content with that.

Even that is enough.

Shakily, he breathes out...and he nods.]

I'm glad. Sincerely... you have done so much for me, Otome.

...Thank you.

[mombastic]

[ He makes her heart ache, with everything he admits to, the kind of life he's had to lead before and just how softly his smiles come now-- even when they may be difficult for him to form. That he tries... means the world to her, and Otome's not above wrapping an arm around him to keep him close. ]

Anytime.

[ She means that. ]