A Quiet Christmas (Paragon)

[Ghost]

Adam felt himself relaxing a bit, not surprised that L0-9 could not confirm his guess that it was her birthday. It was personal information. Information he himself had asked the LUMA to not share about its friend. It also probably couldn't had he not requested that. That was fine with him and it made sense.

He stood as L0-9 finished, getting himself a beverage before once again sitting on the floor as he had before. It felt more informal than sitting on the bed for some reason. It kept him relaxed on a day that he felt it difficult to remain that way. It was best to take advantage. He allowed himself to have a quick smile that he had not harmed her, and he felt happy that he had not caused harm, but the pause made Adam wonder what else had been said. "That makes me happy - that I didn't cause harm." he confirmed.

Adam didn't answer L0-9's question right away. Why the hesitation? He was both curious and cautious about what else she had said. If there hadn't been a pause he wouldn't have wondered. Curiosity won, as he knew it would. He wouldn't be able to keep himself from wondering about it if he didn't know. "Please do," he finally requested.

[Legione Sumus]

There is a longer pause than L0-9 expected before Adam answers. “I did not mean to cause you concern, Adam,” it says first. “I asked to ensure consent.” It could have presumed instead – it has enough information to extrapolate permission – but it did not want to add to the day’s heaviness should Adam have not felt ready to hear them yet. Faith’s instructions have refortified its sense of safety. Though in modulating expectation it wonders if it has inadvertently created anticipation. Or worry.

“She understood what you were trying to say, and your care came through clearly. Careful kindness is never wasted. She asked me to tell you that what you said mattered. More than you intended.” It pauses for a moment, monitoring reaction and adjusting as necessary. “She also wanted you to know that fear doesn’t always make people leave. It was not her experience today.”

It doesn't elaborate any further, or say what it read from Faith when she spoke, or how she had reacted to Adam's words. Those things would add emotional impact it is not sure it is wise to share. At least not yet.

“She was careful,” it adds. “She did not want this to create pressure or expectation. She is very aware of constraints – yours and mine – and she does not wish to do anything that would affect my safety, or yours. She wanted this to stand on its own.”