[CONTINUATIONS]

[mind_over_metal]

[what it says on the tin]

Comments

[extremities]

[No. Jean wants you be there for me, even if she...]

... Jean wants what makes me happy.

[mind_over_metal]

It sounds like something that you two should work out together. One doesn't get married everyday, after all, so you both should have what you truly want for it, not just what you think that you "should" have.

[extremities]

What I want... is only going to be real here.

[mind_over_metal]

And is it worth it, Scott?

[extremities]

My students are safe. You are safe. For that, I'm... [voice cracks slightly] grateful.

[mind_over_metal]

*can't entirely conceal his reaction (surprise? happiness? fear? love?) to hearing himself being included in that worry and gratitude, but mostly brushes it over*

Then hold onto that while you're here. And take of it what you can when you return, even if it's only a reason to continue fighting. Even that is no small thing.

[extremities]

I am. Believe me, you won't get anyone as clingy as me.

[mind_over_metal]

*laughs, then quiets, pausing for a moment before asking, gently and neutrally*

Would you rather that he not be there?

[extremities]

... He's my father too... Was, anyway.

[mind_over_metal]

*nods, a flicker of vulnerability in his eyes, then puts on a very earnest, serious expression*

If he misbehaves, he'll think that he's a thirteen-year old bobby-soxer for a week. But only after Jean has tossed him into orbit.

[extremities]

Thank you, sir.