But What About the Hotel Staff? | (Wo)Men at Work! | Mild Aphro

[healsforjustice]

The festive season was in full swing, and even in a place like the hotel, it seemed like everything was just a touch more pleasant. The staff had gone through a lot of trouble in making special Christmas havens for the residents, just places to relax and soak in the spirit of the season. They were the perfect holiday escape, they had everything;

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[youngest_signer]

"Ho, ho, ho~" Ruka giggled lightly as she had been in the particular room with the chimney that was scheduled to be cleaned. She hadn't expected to see Amelia pop up in this manner, but she knew quite a lot about Christmas and the holiday season.

"This is the part where you eat my cookies, drink my milk and leave me some presents, Mrs. Claus."

[healsforjustice]

Needless to say, Amelia did not get the references, still very much a learner where Christmas as whole was concerned, leaving her to gawp in confusion at her friend. At least it was somehow she knew, who was aware and more used to the princess' general naivety and habit of missing the point.

"Um, I don't think I have any presents Miss Ruka, and I wouldn't steal your food anyway." she replied, looking rather baffled.

[youngest_signer]

Ruka reached over to Amelia with a gentle smile, hand stroking her cheek lovingly before replying back.

"But if I left it out for you to eat, it's not stealing~ And why else would you be up the chimney in a suit like that one if you don't have presents?"

[healsforjustice]

"I guess not. And well, I was cleaning it, as you can see." Amelia replied, gesturing to the soot to show just how badly the chimney had needed sweeping. However she soon registered the touch to her face, gently trying to usher the hand away, more out of consideration than anything.

"Hey, you shouldn't do that, I'm filthy. I don't want you getting dirty as well." she said with a small laugh.

[foolishcleric]

Not alone, but not with a stranger, either. Aldray sits on the bed nearby, having been waiting to see who was in the chimney before he went anywhere after arriving here this time. He looks a little worse for the wear compared to when he last crossed paths with Amelia, but he's smiling - he can't help it, as seeing Amelia (literally) getting her hands dirty to help out was a rather adorable sight to say the least.

"Long time, no see, my friend."

[healsforjustice]

Her ears perked up at the familiar voice, eyes widening on recognising the man. Of course, a smile soon spread across her face, her own mirth making her miss how he looked, though only for the moment.

"Mr Aldray!" she called in excitement, unable to contain herself as she rushed over, all but tackling the cleric as she embraced him tightly. It had been a while since she saw him, so this was a welcome and happy surprise. She kept her head nuzzling his chest, only to remember how dirty she was, and now was making him.

"Oh, I'm so sorry Mr Aldray! I didn't realize...I mean, I was just so glad to see you." she apologised, looking a little embarrassed at her behaviour.

[foolishcleric]

The impact of Amelia's hug, coupled with the slight weariness about him caused him to be knocked back into a laying position - he returned the embrace snugly, rather happy that the hotel had dropped him off here rather than near a stranger. He'd call it holiday generosity, if he was familiar with the season.

He shakes his head as Amelia apologizes, keeping his grip around her tight. "Don't worry about it, Amelia - clothes and people can be cleaned."

[healsforjustice]

Her small form was still sprawled on top of him, appreciative of the tight and comforting hold. Well, if he wanted her to stay there, and didn't mind getting dirty, then she was more than happy to comply.

"Alright. It's still wonderful to see you Mr Aldray. It feels like it's bee a long time." she replied, smiling as she curled up against his chest. "What have you been doing with yourself of late." she enquired. After all it had been weeks, if not a month or so since they spoke last right? The hotel was a big place, so it was hard to keep track of one another, though Amelia wanted to make an effort with those she had a fondness for, and Aldray was certainly high on that list.