Flutter

Flutter: Trieze (2/3)

The party sat on the patio, chattering away, the atmosphere boasting remarkable camaraderie.  

It seemed that Quinton had loosened his tie for today. Literally, his red neck tie hung crumpled and undone about his neck, his suit jacket removed.He'd even managed to laugh quite a few times and Nora found herself admiring the jovial expression that took over when he threw his head back for a chuckle.  Nora had been stealing glances of him from the corner of her eye.

 "Again, Mr. Reeves, I apologize for intruding. I was in the area and decided to pop by. Perhaps an inopportune moment." Tifa said, sipping on some sweet iced tea. 

"No, you missed the worst of it. I'm sure we are all thankful for the visit. I'm glad that you've taken a liking of my humble abode." 

"Yes, but I must say that I am much fonder of the people who reside here." Tifa gave a glance in Nora's and Blaine's direction. 

"Your affections are returned in full." Blaine commented. 

"So, if you like it here so much, when do you plan on moving in?" Quinton asked, reclining further in his chair. 

"Yeah, Tifa. When I first met you, I was told that you would be around day in and day out." Nora chipped in. 

"This is true. As your bodyguard, I should be here more often. I don't reject your offer of residence Mr. Reeves. Though, I do have previous duties to the regiment, and I am required there first and foremost. It will be a little while longer before I complete the requirements of my post."  

"Will you be sad to go?" Nora asked. 

Tifa cocked her head, pondering a moment. 

"Not sad, per say. I mean, I love what I do. I love the structure and order of it all - training people to follow in my footsteps. However, I've done it for such a long time and I wouldn't mind taking it easy. Besides, training you will keep me busy enough." Tifa grinned. 

"Don't remind me." Nora shuddered. 

"We will do all that is necessary to make you feel welcome." Blaine expressed to Tifa. 

"You don't have to try too hard...I already feel welcome." She said with a warm smile.

Nora turned her head up the scorching sun.

"Ugh. This heat." She said, wiping her brow with her arm.

"It is quite hot today." Quinton agreed. 

"I wish I could take a dip." Nora said wistfully, more to herself.

"Oh, a swim sounds really good right about now." Tifa agreed.  

"I do have a pool on the property." Quinton offered. 

"Yes, I know. I tried it once before but the chlorine bothers my nose. I wish there was a river or something, nearby. Back at Wicks, my friends and I would always go for a swim in the creek on days like this." 

"I don't know if you've ever explored the woods, but there is a lake on the surrounding property." Blaine said. 

"You don't say! That's great! I didn't realize. I have to go take a look." Nora said, shooting up from her seat.

"We all should. A fine a time as any to have a tour of the grounds. What do you say to that, Quinton?"  Blaine questioned.

"That isn't a half-bad idea, Blaine. Though, we are soon to have dinner. I don't think we could spare the journey." Quinton answered. 

"Oh, but how about we have a picnic? I'm sure Mary could arrange everything, lickity-split." Nora countered. 

Blaine and Tifa shifted their gaze from Nora to Quinton.