Uniquely unhinged

Alaric gave an exaggerated gasp as Rosalie shook his hand, clutching his chest with his free hand as if the very idea of her doubting her ability to turn heads had physically wounded him.

Rosalie Rutherford, you wound me, he declared, shaking his head in dramatic dismay. Attitude is precisely what makes someone unforgettable. Trust me, darling, it’s not just about the looks—it’s about the presence, the je ne sais quoi, the quiet gravity that makes people turn and wonder, ‘Who is she, and how do I bask in her presence?’ He gestured grandly toward her, as if presenting an undeniable truth. And you, my dear, have it in spades.

His expression softened then, shifting from playful to something gentler, more earnest. As for grief… no one is ever truly prepared for it. Not even those who face it daily. You think you understand it, that you’ve mapped its patterns, and then, when it’s your own heart bearing the weight, you realize how little you knew. It’s a cruel, relentless thing.

A pause, then a quiet sigh as he studied her, taking in the exhaustion she tried so valiantly to mask. He reached out and, with the lightest touch, smoothed a stray strand of hair behind her ear. But you’re not alone in this, Rosalie. And I won’t let you forget that.

Then, as if sensing the moment was teetering too close to the edge of sorrow, Alaric straightened and clapped his hands together, his usual air of theatrical mischief returning. Now, let’s discuss something truly vital—pie logistics. When shall I expect this legendary confection? I need to know so I can prepare my schedule accordingly. You wouldn’t want to deprive me of a much-needed moment of culinary joy, would you?

He shot her a teasing smirk before leaning in slightly, lowering his voice conspiratorially. And don’t think I didn’t notice your clever attempt to distract me with your musings on baby fashion. I will find you something stunning, Rosalie. Something practical, yes, but also elegant, befitting the woman who, despite her claims of invisibility, has managed to completely capture my attention. You deserve that much, at the very least.

Alaric leaned back with a satisfied nod, as if the matter had been settled beyond question. So, my dear, shall we plan a scandalously indulgent evening soon? Perhaps one where we sip expensive wine, pretend the world is not on fire, and you attempt to convince me that you are, in fact, anything less than extraordinary? It would be an amusing experiment, though I warn you—it’s an argument you will most certainly lose.

He stretched, rolling his shoulders as if shaking off the weight of the day, before flashing her an easy smile. But for now, I’ll leave you to whatever terribly important things you’re pretending to work on. I’ll look in on you later at the infirmary—consider me at your disposal for whatever assistance you require while I’m there. His tone was light, but the intent behind it was firm. Alaric wasn’t going anywhere.

With one last wink, he turned toward the door, the shimmering fabric of his coat catching the candlelight as he made his exit, leaving the promise of his presence lingering in the air like the scent of expensive perfume.