so may the sunrise bring hope where it once was forgotten

[atthemercyof]

[ Locked to oldcardigans. Kingdom of Rust. ]

[ It would be too easy to let this languish, the things they've used to smooth over the cracks for now. But Erik is a man of action, and will remain so in everything he does once he's convinced himself the route is right. He's always an early riser, thankfully more so than the children, because he doesn't need the sideward glances. They avoid each other, and it works on both sides, makes the friction a little less obvious when they just ignore it.

Standing in front of the stove, Erik's using his power to cheat a little. He's hoping that maybe this can be seen as a covert operation, steal time with Charles and make sure he eats. French-toast and fruit, tea too, if the kettle will stop whistling long enough for Erik to relax. He summons a tray from the top cupboard by its handles, concentrates for a moment. ]

Charles? [ Taking the kettle off the stove. ] Are you awake?