mind_over_metal | (no subject)

[ he's not doing anything particularly masterful at the moment, but he does, as always, sense Charles coming a while before he gets there ]

*and in turn, Charles rolls up in the manner of one who is expected*

Good afternoon, Erik.

Charles.

How has the cabin been holding up?

I assume you mean that literally.

Quite.

The roof will need to be patched, but it's otherwise sound.

Mm, good to hear. Though that should definitely be taken care of before we tempt the snowy fates too much.

They haven't been giving you too much trouble from down there?

They're fine. Something on your mind, Charles?

Just checking. Since I know that things had gotten a bit rocky back near the beginning of the month. What with the whole little debacle with Vanya.

She was asking me about you, actually.

[ this conversation is causing him to become steadily more tense ]

Was she.

*a bit of a frown tugs at his forehead in response to that, but he keeps his manner calm and steady*

She'd like to talk to you about further training.

Then she can.

She was very anxious that you'd hate her now, you know, because of what happened after the last time. But she does want to continue. For the conversation about exactly how, though, she wants there to be someone else there. Just... for them to be there.

"Just for them to be there." What the hell is that supposed to mean?

She's not yet confident enough to negotiate completely on her own. And yes, she'll need to get there, but we're able to give her this for now. The knowledge that she's not alone.

We.

Yes. She asked me if I would.

Ah.

[ exhales a short laugh ]

And I'm sure you told her she needn't be afraid to talk to me on her own.

That's not the point.

It's exactly the point. She came to me by herself the first time, she would've managed it again. But why should she bother if you're there to do it for her.

And my point is that I wouldn't actually be doing anything for her, which she would realise. This isn't all about you, and it's definitely not about me. I know that you know how many people have gotten involved in this, and that has to be dealt with.

You've already done it for her, Charles, you're doing it. As for anyone else, I don't give a goddamn, and it's really none of your business.

None of my business? Really? The world is larger than just the part of it that you want to keep. She is not yours to control, and whether or not you care, she cares and I'd think that would count for something.

She'll have to get used to the idea of people not liking me sooner or later.