With Every Step Forward (Neglected/Abused Boosted Gear Reader x RWBY)

Chapter 40: Uncertainty

Blake's POV

Blake was standing outside of her father's office, debating whether or not to go in. Her mother walks up to her holding a tray as she's contemplating.

Kali: "You know, you can always go in and say hi."

Blake: "I don't want to bother him." she says, rubbing her arm.

Kali: "A father's never too busy for his daughter."

Blake: "Not all of my friends would agree with you on that."

Her mother gives her a kiss on the cheek before handing her a tray with a tea set on it.

Kali: "Here."

Blake: "What?" Kali starts to walk away. "Where are you going?"

Kali: "You've never been very talkative, but that boy you brought loves to run his mouth. I wanna hear more about the adventures of Team RWBY and their King. He speaks very highly of him."

She walks away, leaving Blake with the tea. Blake hears a voice from the other side of the door.

Ghira: "Kali? Is that you dear?"

Blake's shaking at the thought of going inside. Eventually, she makes up her mind and opens the door.

Blake: "Uh.. hey Dad."

Ghira; "Blake! Well, this is a pleasant surprise."

Ghira: "Please! Come sit!"

He gets up from his desk chair and walks to the chair and sofa that sit around a coffee table. Blake goes over as well and sets the tray down.

Ghira: "I've got it."

Blake: "I don't wanna keep you if you're -"

Ghira: "Nonsense, I've been cooped up in here all day." He pours tea for the both of them. "You still take sugar, right?" He drops in a sugar cube.

Blake: "Oh, actually, uh-"

Ghira: "Oh! Sorry!"

Blake: "No, no no no, it's fine."

Ghira: "Oh here, take this one."

Blake: "No, really. It's, it's not big deal."

She takes the cup he poured for her, sugar and all.

Ghira: "You sure?"

Blake: "Positive."

He looks down into his cup before looking back at her.

Ghira: "Old habits I suppose."

She takes a sip, but flinches at the temperature.

Ghira: "Might want to let it cool,"

Blake: "Right." she says as she puts it on the table.

Ghira: "So... is it warm... in Vale?"

Blake: "Huh?"

Ghira: "It just... seems like your outfit doesn't cover very much."

She looks down before crossing her arms in front of her chest.

Blake: "It covers plenty."

Ghira: "I mean, a little more armor might help. Don't you think?"

Blake: "I'm fine. I don't need armor, I can look after myself." she says defensively.

Ghira: "I..." he sighs. "I know you can. I'm sorry."

She looks away from him.

Blake: "Why?"