The Awkward Dance by augmentedfourth

Alys had been awake and in the kitchen for nearly an hour before Rune awoke. He came out clad only in his green pants and took a seat at the table.

Good morning, she greeted him as she continued fixing breakfast. Sleep well?

Yes, very. He watched her dump the contents of a frying pan onto two plates, which she brought over.

She could sense the awkward dance beginning all over again as each one of them tried to decide what was the right thing to say. Rune looked down at his plate and let his guard down for just a moment as he said, That was fun. We should do it again sometime.

Alys let out an uncharacteristically girlish giggle. Sounds good to me. She took a bite of her food. Next time you're in Aiedo, let me know.

He smiled directly at her. Absolutely.

There was no pattern to the frequency with which they met. Sometimes, Rune would stop in Aiedo once a week; other times, several weeks passed by before Alys saw him again. Occasionally, it was her own duties at the Hunters' Guild that kept Alys away from home for long stretches. She didn't mind the ever-changing schedule at all, though, as she had never liked the feeling of needing to be home at a certain time.

Alys never really asked Rune where he was when he wasn't with her; past experience had taught her she would only receive a vague answer, anyway. He always inquired about her work and she didn't mind discussing her missions, especially when they allowed her to travel great distances. Some nights, they spoke and shared a lot. Some nights, there was not much talking at all.

Winter had arrived in Aiedo, though as it was in the desert, there was only a difference of a few degrees in temperature. The mornings could still be chilly, however, so Alys was in the habit of pouring some hot tea to go with breakfast. Rune usually didn't sleep much longer than her, but one morning, as she warmed her hands on the mug of tea, she wondered what was keeping him so long.

She was almost finished drinking the strong beverage when he finally emerged from the bedroom. Looking at him, she could tell that he had been awake for some time and that something was troubling him. She said nothing, though, and waited for him to speak.

Rune stared down at the floor, not wanting to make eye contact with her. Look, Alys, we've been doing this for a while, and...uh... Alys waited patiently, not having any idea where this conversation was headed. I...um...I just want to know... He scratched his head as he tried to find the right words, still not wanting to look up at her.

Alys' patience was wearing thin. Oh, just say it, whatever it is.

You're not expecting me to marry you or anything, right? he blurted out.

She froze in place. There was a moment of deafening silence before Alys burst out laughing. You have got to be kidding me. She put down her mug of tea and continued to laugh. He stared at her in amazement, having not really expected this response.

What in the world gave you that idea? she managed to get out as she tried to catch her breath. And I hope you don't go around saying that to other women, it's really not your best line.

Rune was finally able to laugh with her. No, I think you're the first. Alys was glad to see him visibly relax. It's just, you know, I wasn't sure if you wanted, or were expecting... Despite his relief, he still seemed unable to find the right words.

Alys was still chuckling slightly as she poured herself another mug of tea. Did you really think I'd want to get married right now? Can you even see me married? Staying home, chasing after kids, no longer able to take on missions at the Hunter's Guild... She shook her head. It's not for me.

He smiled at her. I suppose you do have a point.

And you! She jokingly wagged a finger at him. I can just see you settling down in one place for the rest of your life, having to report back to some poor girl about what you did all day, and being accountable for your whereabouts.

He raised an eyebrow. Yeah, that's not happening any time soon.

Alys looked at him and began to laugh again. I can't believe you. You looked so worried when you came out here this morning, and it was all about this?

I guess it was sort of silly. For a brief moment, a serious look came over Rune's face, an expression Alys was not used to seeing on him. I just didn't want to hurt your feelings.

I'm a big girl, I can take care of myself. Alys wasn't sure she liked this more solemn side of him. She crossed over to him and wrapped her arms around his waist. You're a friend, she said as she rested her head on his chest. A good friend, I guess, since I don't have a whole lot of friends in the first place. Sometimes you're here, and sometimes you're not, and that's okay. I know what to expect from you and I don't want things to be different.

He gave her a gentle squeeze. It's nice to have a friend like you. I like coming here and spending time with you, but — and this has nothing to do with you — I don't think I could live here.

Good, I'd probably get tired of you after a few days anyway. They laughed together and she reached up and kissed him softly. I'm glad we had this conversation and I'm glad you're feeling better. But if you ever bring this up again... She tried to think of a suitable threat. You won't get any breakfast, she laughed, poking him in the side.

That would be a shame, indeed. He smiled at her as she gave him one last peck on the cheek before heading back to the kitchen.

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