transgressings | inbox for duplicity;

[ her response comes soon — not immediately, but that is only because she has been working out the best way to express her thoughts, not to mention picking out the right gift with which the note is attached: ]

My dear Mr. Crowley —

I would be remiss if I allowed you to harbor the mistaken impression that there are any ill feelings between us after the events that transpired in the park. I have since come to the realization that many of us had fallen sway to a particular influence that impacted our actions, and I was not immune from those effects.

That said, I have learned to move through life in this city with a certain understanding that these things can and do happen. Consider the attachment to this note a token of my admiration, as well as an acknowledgment that I far from regret the experience. If your schedule permits, perhaps we can meet over tea in the near future.

It is my hope, ultimately, that I shall remain —

Your friend,
Vanessa Ives

[The return gift is a surprise — he's gotten a lot of gifts, lately, it's a strange thing to grow used to — but more than that, the letter is a relief.

He could send a further one in return, but decides that the gesture of the original one seems to have gotten the message across, and texting her a response is simpler, now the first hurdle has been cleared.]

Thank you for the watch, it's beautiful.

If you're free this Thursday afternoon, I've been thinking of heading to Fiddler's Square to update my wardrobe before winter properly hits. If you'd care to join me, I'd appreciate your keen eye for fashion, and I'm sure we could find somewhere to break for tea.

[Having something to do beyond just sitting and drinking tea feels safer to Crowley, who is well aware that he hasn't settled into the whims of the city with quite the grace that Vanessa has.

It's also a genuine request, too. Vanessa might dress more traditionally, but her clothes are always beautiful, he'd respect her opinion in this.]

Edited 2019-11-26 03:16 (UTC)

[ she'd assumed a mere exchange of gifts would suffice; she certainly doesn't expect it to continue once she sends her response, but when the text arrives shortly thereafter she realizes that her answer must have arrived much faster than she'd predicted. ]

A gentleman should never be without one.

That sounds lovely. I will say it's not the first time anyone's leaned on me for fashion advice, but I'm flattered by the request. And of course I'll never say no to enjoying a cup or two.

inbox for duplicity;

a return delivery!

text!

text;