A distant thump interrupted Jamie's thoughts. He swung his gaze to the door as a flash of worry struck his features. Not a moment later was his caution rewarded with Alderic's hesitant reply, sounding from his room located on the floor below.
"Sorry."
Returning his neck to the ceramic perimeter of the tub, the Rosendahl gently swished his arms around, surprised at the change in temperature. He was cold. It was a stark contrast to the unsurpassable warmth of the tavern lounge, where he had met up with old friends. Endrai'll, Ally, Merril, Sera, and more. Time had seemed to reverse to a different era. An era when life was simple, and his only responsibilities involved tackling pickpockets and relieving the Golden Willow of its stock with his fellow Hammers. When his family was near. When Bryn wasn't stolen away by his fiancé (as lovely as she may be). When his sister stuck around.
Removing himself from the bathtub, Jamie toweled his body dry, pulling on loose nightclothes before retreating to his bedroom. He noticed an overturned glass that was never there before, and a spider crawling across his desk.
There was always Johanna, and Juliette. Firm and unwavering and always there. They would accept him without judgment; a fact he knew with the utmost certainty. In his mind. But perhaps not his heart, for it was too distracted by that irritating thorn that always seemed to present itself at the strangest of times.
Skirt skirt.
Swiveling on his heel, the nobleman made his way towards the door, opening it with one fluid motion. He was welcomed by a curious image; Alderic, holding an adorably furry yet distraught Elysse in his arms. The young boy looked up with green eyes stretched in worry. Impossible to turn away.
Jamie stepped into the hallway, gently closing his door behind him. "Come on now."
Down they went, into Alderic's room. His bags were half-packed. Soon, the Rosendahl's son would take his leave to stay with Marianne. Back and forth, back and forth. The younger boy wriggled under his blanket, bringing Elysse close to his chest. The close proximity seemed to comfort them both, and in mere seconds the pair were fast asleep.
Releasing a long exhale, Jamie elected to seat himself on the end of the bed, a hand resting on his son's feet. His eyes darted around the room, searching for some imperceptible force that was going to strike in the night. Standing guardian over the one thing he knew he could protect.
