To most people, watching Lux's ever growing smirk would be annoying, if not offensive. But to Sebastian, it was more an exercise on scraping the rust off his analytical skills at interpreting behaviours of people. It was obviously something that something he had said brought her some enjoyment, or she saw something humourous in it. But as he started adding it to the wealth of observational information he had on her from her time at work, he sensed that the humour was more self focused, and a simple lack of self control that allowed it to come forth.<br/><br/><em>"I'm sorry. I know you were being serious and I promise you, I was listening, but I swear that was like the cutest thing just now."</em><br/><br/>Her upheld hands spoke of a true sincerity, which was closely followed by her running her hand through the rather generous mane of her fiery hair. He was aware of her trying reign in her amusement, if he read her correct, so she didn't cause any offence. Even a relative new comer to the town, he was aware of her reputation of someone who was troublesome. He had yet to see anything to lend credence to this status associated with her, and continued to assess her on what he observed directly.<br/><br/>But her words broke the tension in him nicely. It had been many years since he had heard the word 'cute' connected to him in any way positive. Coming from Lux, it felt like quite a compliment. He smiled warmly, slowly nodding to her in thanks for her words. But as his head came up, he was fixed on the receiving end of a very serious look from Lux.<br/><br/><em>"I've been in this town since I was 14 and I've never once felt like I fit in here. So on the outsider thing you and I aren't so different.<br/><br/>"As for the boss thing... Well honestly I wouldn't simply let you move in here just because you're my boss. I mean... really, if anything, that would be a reason to turn you away. But honestly, though you and I don't know each other too well our interaction has always been  minimal but pleasant, you know? I don't see... I don't see us getting to a place that would mess that up, do you?<br/><br/>"But um... yeah, provided you like the rest of the house and are cool with the details I think we can find an arrangement that works."</em><br/><br/>Sebastian took comfort in the knowledge that Lux was as uneasy about the discussions as he was, but like him, was not letting that unease dictate the terms of the discussion, nor the possibility of there being a positive outcome. He was definitely feeling more positive about the prospect of sharing a roof with Lux, and settling down once more.<br/><br/>Old habits tried to reassert themselves as he noticed Lux suppressing her desire to fidget. The old professional in him wanted to reassure her that there was nothing wrong, and give her some support in her time of what seemed to be distress. But no one in the town knew of that part of his history, and it would only create more awkwardness if he was to try, or even if he started to explain what he did before coming to Elliquiy.<br/><br/>Further talk was disrupted by a knock from Lux's front door. He nodded and waved as she turned to go see who was at the front door. He found himself once more gazing at her retreating form, letting his hormones take charge for a few seconds. Her torso shape was very nice, and she had legs he would not tire looking at for a long time to come. She was definitely full of life and energy, not too surprising for a fitness instructor. He found himself looking forward to getting to know her a little better, finding out more about her than the limited projection he got while they worked.<br/><br/>He walked down the stairs from the patio, and took a small walk over to the little pond that sat to one side of the garden. He stood still, hands clasped behind his back, staring into the water. The reflection was darker due to the water quality and the colouration of the base of the pond.<br/><br/>"Darkness clouds you still, old man. Thirteen days was all it took." He sighed. "This is one case where the physician can't heal thy self. I think this will be a good move for me, if she accepts. I've been alone too long, and even having a housemate is better than hiding alone with the nightmares." He took a few deep breaths. "Sebastian, if Lux agrees, then it will mark the start of living again." He fell silent, staring into the water as if the answer to his deepest problem lay somewhere within.