{ ???;; }

Lurking in the shadows, blending in with the crowds, had become second nature to someone like her. Someone who didn’t want to be noticed, someone who was hiding. Most often, than not she would go by unnoticed, which is how she liked it… however this did not seem to be the case today.

When the younger voice called out to her, she had not been expecting it. A troubled expression crossed the woman’s face, unease was the first emotion she experienced. She had two options; A) Take the risk and respond or B) Get out of there. 

Glancing in the direction the voice came from, she was able to make out a form… they were alone, and didn’t seem all that threatening - so she decided to take the risk.

“Sometimes being fearful and keeping to yourself is for the best.”

Emil canted his head, watching with an expression most curious. The person seemed unsure, the pause in response, the seconds, counted by breaths, it tok her to respond told him so much as he stepped a little closer. Query resting upon lips, his mouth opens, going to catch her by curiosity if nothing else; blond hair highlighted just barely in the shadows, making it appear more white than yellow.

   "Why?“

Emil’s question was clear, green hues glimmering up, awaiting a response. ”Isn’t…isn’t that just … lonely?“ The slight stumble upon words was not consciously done, resting upon his tongue, even afterwards. His fingers gently pressing into his scarf, no fear or distrust upon his face as he awaited his response. More information.

He knew of being lonely. Living in small town that clearly did not want the likes of him. Did not appreciate his words, his stutter, his being, and Emil wanted to know why someone might chose that life.

    ”Isn’t that j-just … painful?“