Anatomy for dummies

Alaric stretched languidly, rolling his shoulders as though to ease the tension from sitting for so long, though the sparkle in his eyes betrayed his satisfaction. He leaned back in his chair, legs crossed with effortless poise, and offered Rosalie a wide, approving smile.

Rosie, my darling, he began, his tone light but sincere, if this is what you consider a ‘basic’ lesson, then I’m positively terrified to see what the advanced ones entail. I haven’t worked this hard since that ill-advised attempt to learn Antivan fencing. But, I must say, you’re a brilliant teacher. You’ve managed to keep even me—an unrepentant dabbler—engaged for hours.

He paused, his gaze softening as he regarded her, sprawled on the couch with a well-earned look of relief.

I mean it, you know. You’ve a gift, not just for healing but for sharing what you know in a way that makes it... intoxicatingly fascinating. That’s no small feat.

Alaric rose from his chair with a fluid grace and made his way to her side. He plucked a cushion from the couch and handed it to her with an exaggerated bow, as though presenting her with a priceless artifact.

For your remarkable service to the realm of education, I bestow upon you this honorary pillow of relaxation. Truly, a symbol of the highest academic honors.

He dropped onto the couch beside her, resting his elbows on his knees and looking up at her with a mischievous grin.

Now, tell me, what’s the dinner situation around here? Because after all that learning, I think we’ve both earned something spectacular. I’ll even cook, if you trust me in your kitchen. Although, fair warning, my culinary talents lean more toward flair than practicality.

Alaric winked, his mood buoyant, though the respect in his expression made it clear how much he valued the day’s lesson—and Rosalie’s efforts.

@Rosalie Rutherford