transgressings | inbox for duplicity;

[ He'll receive something returned to him by messenger — during the daytime, even if its sender is well-abed by this hour — and clearly written in an elegant hand, the script careful in its cursive. She doesn't necessarily acknowledge the slip of paper that was included in her own letter — should she have? — but it's likely there in the amusement reflected in the overall missive. ]

Theodore —

It does seem an appropriate time to begin making amends for past transgressions, especially as we hover on the cusp of a new year and all that potentially lies in store for us — not what is simply courtesy of the city but what can be found in one another. I'll admit, even after all my years of existence here, to never truly getting used to our provided devices. There may be nothing that can adequately replace the honesty of a letter, nor the intimacy of receiving something written in another's hand. That said, if you would like to continue our correspondence, you need only continue to write.

You have an unparalleled skill when it comes to your art. My biggest hope for you is that you find new and inspiring ways to apply it in the coming year — whether that involves relying on me as your muse or not.

Your friend,
Vanessa

To the lovely Miss Ives,

Just like I'll always be content to put pencil to pad to capture your beauty, I'll always be as eager to put a pen to paper to keep this up so I am very grateful to you for lending yourself to me as a pen pal. I may need to get my writing back up to snuff so excuse any crooked vowels, it's been a while - as you know - and you deserve but the best.

I'm fond of starting a new series of paintings circling the constellations, and I would be most pleased to continue to borrow you as a muse if you feel there are some nights you'd like to drink up the moonlight for me.

I look forward to it if you shall.

Sincerely,

Theodore.

Dear Theodore —

If you'll forgive me for my long-windedness from time to time, I cannot find fault with your penmanship. It's been a regrettably long while since I have had opportunity to write directly to anyone I do not already live with, but leaving notes within the confines of one's own home isn't the same as sending something by messenger, or receiving a missive in the mail. It's rather exciting, isn't it? Though I don't expect you to be waiting with bated breath for a response, disregarding any of your other responsibilities in the process.

That sounds like a lovely endeavor. I would be most honored to assist you in the pursuit of this series. Simply name the evening you would like me to sit for you and I should be able to accommodate your request.

Your friend in letter-writing,
Vanessa

P.S. Do you and Oliver make a habit of surprise accosting your friends together, or should I be honored by the privilege?

My lovely Miss Ives,

I'll always wait on baited breath for a letter from you, knowing it's been penned by your delicate hands and written in your witty and most intelligent word. If you could do me a favor perhaps, to scent a future letter with your perfume, I may be able to close my eyes and pretend that while I hold it you're still but a room away from me. A fond thing to savor.

I'll find a night that works for us. And to answer you earnestly: only those we are quite fond of, so indeed take honor in it. I would in your place.

Fondly,
Theodore.

[ it doesn't take long for his particular request to be complied with — although she doesn't make use of a perfume, strictly, she does crush fresh lavender and other herbs against the paper, leaving the scent of greenery behind, the sort of scent she'd wear after long hours working in the shop. ]

My dear Mr. Price,

One might argue that the closest and best substitute for having me a room away would simply be to have me a room away, but in the absence of such things, I hope this satisfies your ask until we can next lay eyes on one another, whether that is in anticipation of your crafting a new piece of art or in the company of your Mr. Daye.

Truth be told, I am not often in the habit of sharing with others. It is good to know the two of you have such a generous spirit when it comes to those types of pursuits. It certainly leaves me more honored to consider that it is not such a habitual act. Surely you would not think less of me for dwelling on the possibility that it could happen again, between us.

Your friend,
Vanessa

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