[It's really Maxima's work, but he's under instructions to try not to think about that.]
But...I wouldn't mind the company, either. Not that I think I'm likely to be very good company right now.
[His canine instincts were strong this month. If asked, that's the excuse he would give for the way he stared at Lighter's hand, his soft floppy ears twitching slightly.]
Eh, it's fine. Call it an early lunch break and I've still got time on it.
[They get mandated breaks, so Maxima can't protest that logic. At seeing that little flick of the ears, Lighter started scratching behind them gently. He's been around enough dogs to know what that meant.]
Company's company. I don't mind helping a friend out this way.
[As soon as Lighter touched his ears, half the tension seemed to leave Maxima's body. Sometimes there's no comfort that can surpass just bypassing the thoughts and striking right at the animal instincts. He leaned his head into the touch, appreciative both of the comfort willingly offered and the fact that he'd been understood without words.]
You are a good friend.
[Both to him and in general. Better that he deserved, really, though he knew better than to voice that where it could be shot down.]
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That's all I'm asking. Watch a movie, take a walk... figure out a new hobby or something. [A light shrug.] You'll figure it out.
I'll stick around with you a bit longer before I head back, if you want.
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[It's really Maxima's work, but he's under instructions to try not to think about that.]
But...I wouldn't mind the company, either. Not that I think I'm likely to be very good company right now.
[His canine instincts were strong this month. If asked, that's the excuse he would give for the way he stared at Lighter's hand, his soft floppy ears twitching slightly.]
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[They get mandated breaks, so Maxima can't protest that logic. At seeing that little flick of the ears, Lighter started scratching behind them gently. He's been around enough dogs to know what that meant.]
Company's company. I don't mind helping a friend out this way.
[It kept him from dwelling.]
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You are a good friend.
[Both to him and in general. Better that he deserved, really, though he knew better than to voice that where it could be shot down.]
...Thank you, then.