The empty expression on Elua's face starkly contrasted with the almost violent 'restraint' she imposed on herself. The hints of 'handled' but *existing* jealousy were making her want to prove herself faithful in ways that she knew she couldn't allow to happen. Not for years longer.
"Yes. Alone - and as myself, of course. By which I mean my facade. The adorable medical fairy."
"Pointing out that you are adorable isn't helpful."
The reborn cultivator conceded the point. She hadn't been trying to be that helpful! At least not toward easing the *wonderful* feelings within her spouse that pressured her into acting on instinct. The tips of her fingers trailed random circles on the hand holding her wrist.
"It will be very natural and very public. I could better gauge how she might react to learning about the connection you two share… or possibly learn if she already knew of it."
