with a fearful trill

Wh—.. Asani… [Kisses her hand.] I’m more than happy for this to happen.

[Whoops, now tears are gathering tin the corners of her eyes.] Me, too.

Of course, that’s why I asked. [Morn reaches across the table and takes Asani’s free hand in both her own, not too tightly, but firmly.] I mean it. I want you with me. And I think this… uh, this is the next step, you know?

Yes! [Asani squeezes Morn's hand once.] I just...never thought it could happen.

Do you? Do you really? [Her entire face lights up, lopsided smile returning.] Really?

[Asani nods.] I want to.

I bet you could find a job ‘round here, if you wanted. I’m sorry, I shoulda thought about that beforehand…

No, no, I-- [She takes a deep breath.] I want to. I do. I, I can sort something out.

I can support you! I can do that. I have plenty of money, Asani. I’ve been savin’ for a long time. There’s a tiny cabin I’m lookin’ at… listen, you don’t have to, if you don’t want to… don’t feel forced.

No, no, I don't feel forced! I just... [Asani plays with her dress, not certain what to say.] What would I do while you're at work? I've never, um, managed a house before. Should I find a job here? I...

No! No, Asani, not there, I wouldn’t make you live there. I mean in a house of our own… nothin’ too big or fancy. Simple. Not too close to where I work, but close enough so I can get there…

So I know you live sorta… far away, and I thought to myself… hey… maybe she shouldn’t live so far away… and so then… I thought… maybe I could be the one to help you with that, and… do you wanna, maybe… live together? [Her eyes dart from side to side before at last resting on Asani, a hopeful expression present.]

No, no! Everything’s great… that’s why I’m nervous. I wanna make it even better than it is. Hear me out?

Better? [Asani isn't sure what to expect, so she just waits nervously.]

[Morn is nervous, and it's making her nervous. She carefully sips her wine, trying not to make it too obvious. She is bad at this.] Is...is everything alright?

Good. And like you overheard, I’ve got somethin’ to talk to you about over dinner. [She grabs them both a table and, after holding out the seat for Asani, takes one herself, gesturing her customary drink over and looking expectantly to her partner.]

Oh! Um, wine, please? [Asani settles in, more comfortable each time she goes with Morn. Asking for things she wants is still awkward, though.]

Also ‘cus you know I’m gonna pick somethin’ good to eat. [Gives her a last kiss and places a hand at her back, seeking to guide her to the Bee and Barb.]

I trust you! [She giggles.]

I'm never picky. I just want to spend time with you.

Guess you should think again, hm? [Strokes her hair back, holding her close.] You been on the road long, right?

Most of the day. [She shuts her eyes and sighs, happy.] I missed you.

[Whips around and clutches her chest with a breath, clearly having a start at first, but then she laughs.] Asani! You scared me, lady. [And with that, she leans forward to give her a hello kiss.]

[Asani wraps her arms around Morn in a hug, laughing into the kiss.] I never thought I could scare you.

Hopin’ I can talk to Asani soon…. she’s sposed to be visiting. 

Talk to me about what?