.23

[awful_awkward]

[Abel looks like he's suffered a particularly painful shock, nothing amused or amusing in his face, now. He's making a valiant effort to act like everything's all right, but when he smiles it looks like someone's stuck a knife in his back and a twist is what prompts the expression]

I should've known better. ...I did know better, of course.

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Comments

[rasenjou]

You...going to be okay, monk-san? [Naruto has to think for a bit to get a name] Err, um...Abel, right?

[awful_awkward]

Uh, y-yes, I'll be just fine. [a pause] That's my name, but I don't think I know yours?

[rasenjou]

That's good! You look really down...

H-Huh? Oh, right! It's, um, it's Naruto. I made a wish, too, eh-heh...

[awful_awkward]

It was my fault; I can handle it.

[blink] Er, if you wished to be tall, dark, and handsome, I don't think it's quite worked out.

[faroffwhistle]

[Pauses for a moment before speaking.]

...Are you all right, Abel?

[awful_awkward]

[smiles unconvincingly and nods, once] Yes. It just brings back... Memories.

I guess I didn't word that wish quite right.

[faroffwhistle]

[Decides it best he not pry into that first part. The latter though, catches his attention.]

Ah, you made a wish, too?

[awful_awkward]

Yes, I did. Have you made one?

[impropertalk]

Everything okay here?

[awful_awkward]

Oh, everyone's so worried. I feel a little guilty, now.

I'll be all right.

[impropertalk]

As you should. Shame on you, etc etc.

I guess that's alright though.

[awful_awkward]

Yes, yes, shame. I know. [something like the shadow of a genuine smile]

I'd wish everything back to normal, again, but I don't know what that would do, either!