unpavemypaths | open post

[She softens a little more at the gesture, something she's going to take a while to get used to and stop being surprised by. Not that he's been particularly distant, especially since they've been here, but it still feels different now. And honestly, she wasn't really used to that, just putting off that surprise because of the circumstances.]

I won't be here that much longer. Probably only a couple of extra weeks. [As much as part of her really just wants to stay, there's only so long they'll give her off, especially when it's not for her own recovery.] Barely enough time to miss me. [Joking.]

[He smiles softly, running the fingers of his other hand along hers.] Just barely.

[If he's being honest, he missed her already, just being in the other room to study, so used to being directly with her now after almost a week of near constant contact. Going home to an empty apartment feels like torture.] At least I'll be able to catch you up to speed on all the hospital gossip.

I expect thorough updates. And to know who I need to worry about beating when I get back. Besides you.

[Chances are her distraction before leaving is already going to mean her grades took a hit, but she's been doing well enough that she'll probably be okay in the long run. She can afford to graduate in the top ten instead of the top three, it's still pretty good, all things consider.]

Anyway, you're not leaving yet. [A reminder to both of them. It's hard not to dwell on it, but she can try.]

I'll make sure no one comes close. I still have the group study guide. I can sabotage it for you.

[Clearly a joke, one that he smiles through, he's not even sure he's that far ahead these days, he's stopped checking awhile ago, and with all of this going on, he hasn't been nearly as focused as he should have been. Something he isn't too concerned about.]

Exactly. There is still time for me to try to beat you at cards. [Even if last time that lead to other things happening. He wouldn't mind a repeat of either.]

My hero. [Playfully. It's not like she was ever that focused when it came to most people anyway, the only person she ever cared that much about beating was him, which isn't exactly true anymore. The rest of it's always been about her own need to do better.

She raises an eyebrow a little at that suggestion, clearly thinking about what happened last time herself. A slight smirk on her lips, her tone perfectly innocent.] If you think you can keep from getting distracted, maybe.

Obviously. [Said with a light smirk as well.] I have to actually try to leave with some dignity, that means making sure I win at least one game.

[He's still teasing, although it is nice to have some harmless competition. It's always fun to try to win against her when she is such a good component, he feels like he always has to be on his A game when she's around. Even if it is clear that neither of them are actually thinking about the cards.]

Probably lucky for you that I don't have much else to do, then. It might take you a while.

[It's easy to fall into the light teasing, grinning a little at him, openly challenging. It doesn't matter, but it's fun, even if part of her would much rather try to distract him again. And it's nice to have an excuse to keep him near, especially one that doesn't involve being in pain and needing his help.

She could probably keep him there just by asking him, but she's not great about that.]

Ouch. [He makes a mock offended face, nudging her softly.] Way to hit a guy when he's already down. I'm going to remember this once I start winning. You're about to see a real ruthless Nathaniel.

[He frowns slightly at the fact he used his real name, eyes drifting sideways to the mark on her arm. It's hard not to see it all the time, to realize that is him. He meets her eyes again with a genuine smile, whatever moment he had clearing.] I don't think you're ready.

[It catches her attention, both the use of his name and his reaction to it. Her hand twitching a little against the comforter, automatically wanting to move to the mark when his eyes are drawn to it. It's been a little more visible lately, loose t-shirts a little more comfortable while she's healing than her usual long sleeves.

She means to let him draw her back into the teasing and let it go, but she can't help it, her curiosity getting the better of her, and when she opens her mouth what comes out instead is:] Is there a reason you don't use your name?

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