♕ |[109]| What is all this sweet work worth if thou kiss not me?

[had_not_lived]

[It's not that Neil likes kissing strangers, exactly-- but he doesn't really mind. Usually. He doesn't think it counts for anything, in a curse, and he sort of likes the festivity and the tradition. And now and then he likes the chance to get away with things he wouldn't usually dare to do in public, but that's a whole other story.

He stops in a cafe for a cup of tea, first thing in the morning, before heading to the bookstore for the day; green sprigs sprout now and then from the ceiling, in between books on the shelves, and sometimes he pulls them down with a laugh, and other times he doesn't bother.

Later, he goes for a long lunch (because it's not as if people are breaking down the doors for used books, and keeping inscrutable hours is a tradition at Bilton & Scaggs,) and after the afternoon ship he meanders home, doubtless meeting up with Todd along the way.]

Comments

[candothat]

[At least the awkwardness is mutual.]

No, I will take responsibility. Perhaps we should talk when there is not a mistletoe problem?

[had_not_lived]

Sure, of course, though usually once it's done it's safe.

[candothat]

I refuse to trust this plant. It may only have you convinced that you are safe.

[It's... really hard to tell if he's joking or dead serious.]

[had_not_lived]

[Either way Neil finds it a bit funny. And not necessarily untrue. He laughs shortly.]

All right, all right! I'll keep my distance. I promise.

[candothat]

Very wise of you. Good luck with the rest of your day... I hope that you will be kissed only by those you wish to kiss.

[had_not_lived]

[He just grins, big and bright, and gives a little wave.]