regulate | LL INBOX.

[ Sam blinks, going to sit down in one of the seats near her beside as Friday works. He seems to debate, like he's hesitating before saying: ] ]

... Oh, of course you would be siblings with AYU. I'm not sure how I didn't immediately realize that just from your looks, you are siblings through and through. I didn't know she was here, though...I don't think I did, anyway. I'm sorry, this must be hard.

[ He shakes his head gently. ]

It is all right. Not many make the connection right away in spite of our ear wings. Her presence is very magnetic, and her talent in singing and dancing is without compare.

Did you ever get the chance to watch any of her live concerts?

[ tilts his head. ] You're very magnetic, too. It feels a little sad compared to hers from what I remember, but I imagine you've been through a lot protecting her.

I haven't.

That is kind of you to say, and I wish I could have protected her from this ship and the affliction she is now under. [ He takes her hand in his for a moment. ] I can only hear her voice now from all her songs and recordings...Do you have any siblings yourself?

I understand, but it's not your fault. We'll find a way to help her.

[ a pause. ] ...I did.

[ He frowns at the past tense and glances at Sam. ]

What happened to them if you do not mind me asking?

Suicide.

I am sorry. I know it is hard to bear and even harder to find purpose afterwards, but please know you are not alone.

Has your family at least somewhat filled the void with their presence?

... Sorry, this feels so shitty to tell you when you're trying so hard here, Friday. Thank you, really.

My family is dead. There isn't anyone left. [ not entirely true but it might as well be. that's a story for another time. ]

There is no need to apologize. I am glad you trust me enough to share something so intimate, even if it is disquieting.

[ He stands up and holds his hand out towards Sam. ]

I wish I could bring peace to your heart. I do not know if music could achieve that for you in the same way it has for me.

[ Ah... really, what a sweet person. he reaches to take Friday's hand. ]

I'm not very talented in music myself, but I do like some.

[ He smiles and sandwiches Sam's hands between his own, rubbing over his knuckles comfortingly. ]

Do you prefer pop or classical?

Classical. [ ....oh this (that smile and the overall gesture) must be the aria charisma at play. ]

I will play something for you next time you come by the Siren's cabins then. I have a piano now in our soundproof practice room.

It's a date, then. I'll bring you something nice.

[ His wings shift around his cheeks. ]

There is no need for you to stress yourself bringing something on my behalf. Coming with me to visit my sister and help keep her company is gift enough. I feel as though she is more stimulated when there are more voices than simply mine to listen to.

I know, but you just look so happy when you receive things I can't help but want to bring stuff. I'll keep it simple, promise.

[ How embarrassing. Is he really that present-starved? His wings further obscure his face. ]

Yes, something small if you absolutely must. Would you like to try the treats I brought along now? I need your honest opinion on my progress. Please hold nothing back.

[ he's in good company. ]

Of course! They smelled great, so that's a good sign so far. [ he's going to take one to try it. ]

I did my best to follow the recipe exactly, and I did not use someone with a suspect username this time. They were simply called "mattthecat." I will pour you some tea to wash it down.

[ He unscrews the cap of the thermos and fills it with warm tea before holding it out towards Sam. ]

[ he'll take the tea with a grateful smile before you to take a bite of the muffin. He gives it a moment, really putting the effort into giving it a good consideration on how it is as he chews before swallowing and finally taking a sip of the tea. ]

Did you try them yourself already?

I did. The muffins seemed good to me. I would not say they are the best I have ever eaten given how many muffins I have tried in the past from far better bakers than I, but they were edible.

Tell me what makes the others better to you? Or would make this better?

Small touches, like certain ingredients and a seasoned baker's penchant for timing. Sometimes having a dough with a cakier texture and a hint of extra citrus zest could make all the difference in the world. I am far from mastering that instinct they possess.

That comes with time, trial, and error. But knowing these things and what you're looking for really help.

The ingredients, though... well, hopefully we'll be off this hellboat soon.

I usually like my muffins to be less cakey and on the less sweet side, so this has a good consistency to me.

LL INBOX.

Re: Day 240, morning.

Re: Day 240, morning.

Re: Day 240, morning.

Re: Day 240, morning.

Re: Day 240, morning.

Re: Day 240, morning.

(CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )

Re: (CW. suicide mention. )