( text. )

[debrief]

I'm aware that yesterday's curse was about the prenups more than the actual marriage, but it still made me wonder:

What are your thoughts on relationships in the City, given that people might leave at any time, or return without memories? Not necessarily romantic relationships only; I'm sure the lack of stability has a similar effect on friendships.

Comments

[debrief]

Yes.

[rianofski]

So you're asking a question with deep personal impact, not a hypothetical question. That probably makes the answers you receive different, if people realize that.

[debrief]

Not really, because I know where I stand, I'm curious about what others think.

[rianofski]

If you're willing to enter into one, you must think relationships are worthwhile here. Even if they could result in pain.

[debrief]

I think that this particular relationship is certainly worthwhile. I'm inclined to extend that judgment to relationships in general.

[rianofski]

Do you not worry about betrayal?

[debrief]

In general, or in this particular relationship?

[rianofski]

Both. Do you not worry that they may use you for ulterior motives, or sell you out to your enemies?

[Or maybe he's just particularly paranoid...]

[debrief]

( Very paranoid. ) I'm careful about who I get attached to, admittedly, but I trust those that I'm close to.

[rianofski]

Do you trust them with everything? The current relationship you're in, do you think the individual has no possible other reason for being with you than love?

[debrief]

I do.

[rianofski]

[There's a long pause between messages, then...]

Why, Mr...?

[debrief]

Coulson. Phil Coulson.

[rianofski]

Nice to meet you, Mr. Coulson. I'm Andrew Ryan. How long have you been in said relationship?

[Prying? Him? Never.]

[debrief]

Likewise, Mr Ryan.

Not quite three months. ( Why so curious? )

[rianofski]

I see. I believe they call that the 'honeymoon phase', do they not?

[He's basically telling you your relationship will fail. Not a cheerful one, this fellow.]

[debrief]

I think we passed that phase years ago.

( He never said it was someone he'd met in the City. )

[rianofski]

Ah. An individual from your home, then. Interesting.

[debrief]

Is it?

[rianofski]

It is. To me, at least. I've been curious as to why some people have individuals from their home here and why some don't.

[debrief]

That, I don't know. Then again, there's far too much that I don't know about this place.

[rianofski]

What is it you do back home, Mr. Coulson?

[debrief]

I work for the government.

[rianofski]

I see. In what capacity?

[It's probably good this is a text message conversation, because otherwise, there would be considerable scorn in his words.]

[debrief]

Mostly paperwork.

( Yeah, he's not telling. )