@alchemistisa summer solstice event
“Well you look as radiant as ever.” It was the only announcement of his presence before he came up behind Isabel, smile on his lips as he draped an arm around her shoulders. A mason jar full of fruit and a pleasantly colorful mixed drink, fading from orange to yellow and dangled in front of her in a promise. “I come bearing gifts,” he said. “Not that I’m worried about your tolerance, but for the record it’s about as alcoholic as hand sanitizer.”
It felt like an important distinction to make, aware that as playfully as he addressed her, they were both still on duty. As much as he would’ve loved to take advantage of the festivities around them there were more responsibilities resting on his shoulders than any previous year so far. Not just a new title, but a new sense of dread that sat quietly in the back of his mind, a constant reminder of cryptic warnings still echoing quietly. It kept the next question quieter, more sincere when he knew how important it was to her to take her duties seriously. “How are you doing?”
