O, Apple of His Eye - Ch2

Tav and Raphael are heading to meet Tav's father in the archive. Tav is nervous and feels pressured, but Raphael assures her that no harm will come to her. Tav is annoyed at Harlam for causing this meeting. Raphael warns Tav not to act childish or disrespectful. Tav jokes with Raphael, who reluctantly smiles. They hold hands briefly for reassurance before entering the archive on time. Oh, apple of his eye, buy a true neutral. Chapter Two ACT NATURAL ACT NATURAL He said it as if it were the easiest thing in the world. How am I supposed to act natural when I'm meeting your father? Tav hissed as they made their way to the archive, where the father in question was waiting. I feel like I'm on a death march. No harm will come to you, Raphael placated, guiding her forward with his clawed hand at the small of her back. There was enough pressure there to prevent her from dragging her feet. They had an appointment to keep, and she had spent enough time already hemming and hawing in the boudoir in between sending scathing looks at Harlam. Well deserved. It was their fault she was meeting Lord Mephistopheles in the first place. You owe me for accepting to do this, Tav muttered. How precious. You think you had a choice in the matter. It was a petulant thing, but she made a face at him. On second thought, perhaps it was a mistake to recommend that you act natural, Raphael said, sending her a reproachful glance. I cannot guarantee your safety if you choose to endanger yourself with childish, disrespectful antics. The doors to the archive were approaching, and Tav hated that her nerves were getting the better of her. Her hands were shaking. Don't worry, Raphael. I save my childish and disrespectful antics only for you. I know you secretly love and adore them so. Her smile was a roguish one, and it caused the corners of his mouth to betray the otherwise critical expression he wore. A most unfortunate fact, Raphael disparaged. His hand left her back to find her hand, and for a brief moment, their fingers intertwined as Raphael gave a reassuring squeeze. He then let her go, remaining at her back as Tav turned and led them into the archive. They were right on time.