The Known/Unknown Quantity

Chapter 63: Out and About Part 2

Chapter 63: Out and About Part 2

The tension in the room was so thick you could cut it with a knife. Both figures stood their ground, fists wanting to clinch, eyes locked. But then, Crowley cussed. He relaxed.

I'll lose him for sure if I don't give in a little. And if that doesn't happen now, I might as well put the blade through his chest myself.

"Been a bad habit of mine as late, huh, Aziraphale?"

The angel's face softened. Anger eased into concern. "I'm just so unsettled, Crowley. I don't expect you to be held on a leash! And the day I do, why, you have every right to walk out that door and never give me a second's thought!"

It came out without thought. "Would you prefer the reverse?"

The angel bristled. "You just won't let me live that down, will you?"

Crowley's hands went to the air. "Whot's to live down? Explaining it to me won't harm either of us. Ya get that?"

"And I told you...." The angel's eyes took the measure of him, and he sagged. "Please, not now."

"So, we talk about this instead," Crowley grumbled, letting his hands drop.

"Angel, we need to talk."

"What? Why?"

"De Wallen, angel."

"..oh..."

"Did you mean what you said?"

"No, Crowley, I just...." He looked up at him. "I just wish I could bear your burdens for you at times."

"That's a pointlessly painful act. It won't take away whot's happen to me, if that's your intention," he told him. "I would never wish it on you. What has that got to do with what you said?"

Aziraphale shook himself. "I'm not sure. There's more to it than that. Give me time, my love? Please, let me think about it." Then, looking furtive, speaking low," Crowley?"

"Yes?"

"...I'm having dreams..."

Just as furtively: "Would you let me see them?"

No answer.

"Dear boy: it used to be occasional. I didn't bat an eye. But now it's every night, everywhere! Is it so much to expect at least a little note?"

"No, angel." He meant it. He just didn't know if he could oblige. "I suppose it should have crossed my mind. I've held my own company for so long, and now.... well, all these months together like this, with that thing out there. We're still observing you and I?"

The angel pursed his lips and his eyes drifted away. "Why...yes."

"This is new." Crowley gestured back and forth between them, indicating the disagreement. "It needs more observation."

"Doesn't feel good, that's what I observe."

"But feels...essential, roit?"

"Ugh. Sadly, you are correct."

"Ugly but can't let it fester. Ok. So here it goes: I need to remember there are two of us now, whotever that means, just not take off without so much as a word. But I shouldn't have to defend myself to you. The last time I had to it was to someone much less pleasant."