Pre-Game Catchall | the grass grows greener on the other side

[graftage]

Who: John Steinbeck + people who are unfortunate enough to talk to him
Where: everywhere and anywhere
When: time is a construct (various)
Summary: pre-game CR catchall time
Restrictions/Warnings: steinbeck is his own warning (will update if needed)

[This log is for pre-game CR closed prompts catchall! If you're interested in getting CR with Steinbeck, just PM or hit me up in a PP over at vampirize and I'll write out a prompt for you!]

Comments

[digophelia]

Take the sins and suffering...? Ah, that's-

[ What she is about to say that it sounds ridiculous and how she didn't believe such a thing. But Steinbeck is beaming, content with his role. So the term "scarback" finally comes to light. ]

That's very rewarding!

[ How can she speak so disdainfully of something that makes him so happy? What would be a nervous laugh (if she could laugh, at all) instead is replaced with a breathy response. ]

Ah, I cannot say that I have flowers -- plenty of greens, no flowers! I would most certainly appreciate it! It's not too terrible! I don't feel that it's right to have anyone to help me, not when I am able to do so, myself.

[graftage]

It sure is!

[He doesn't even suspect she might think of it in another way - he's just happy to hear someone approving of his duties so highly.]

Oh, no flowers? Not a single one? That's an absolute shame! [He slaps a hand on the table.] Don't even worry about it, Alice, I'll certainly get you on the right track for some plants, just count on me!

[digophelia]

I had no idea you were a gardener, John.

[ What she remembers of him as a boy seems so long ago. She hopes she hasn't forgotten tidbits like that. What he likes, little things like this. He would be the first guest she would open her doors to willingly. ]

Then whenever you are back in Leith, I'll make a special dinner for you.

[ And, she adds, unlike other Leithian heiresses... ] Myself, that is.

[graftage]

Ah, not really a gardener, really...I dabble in plants from time to time, though.

[In more ways than one.]

[The more she talks, the more he remembers them as children, chatting about nothing in particular as children do. Things were simpler back then. Happier. It's nice to remember those times, even now.]

That's too nice of you. You know, my favorite kind of food is always homemade. [He tilts his head, a sweet smile on his face.] I know I sound sappy, but Alice...I'm really glad we're meeting like this. It's so good to see you.

[digophelia]

I'm happy, too.

[ There is a slight urge to reach across the table and pat his hand. She must seem awkward as she still wears a small smile, slightly grimacing at the thought. It's too soon for Alice to even touch a hand. ]

Please, let me know if you're ever back in Leith.

[ Saying that now, Alice realizes how lonely she is. ]

[graftage]

But of course! I travel back and forth all the time.

[The life of a Scarback (and a revolutionary} is a hardworking one. He sometimes wises he could be divided in two to be on two planets at once.]

[He senses the sadness behind that phrase, and gives her a reassuring smile.]

Seriously, Alice, if you need me, just give me a call. I'll be here for you.

[He means it.]