Yes. [Ben isn't so far removed from being able to read people he doesn't know that he's not well aware that the combination of good for hiding and beautiful is an odd one. He's working on piecing together an acceptable way to clarify the distinction about the waterfall when she unloads another question on him and he realizes he should have anticipated it. He never, however, does.
He's quiet for several moments, as though he's considering not answering at all, as though he doesn't have the answer or maybe it's taboo. It is, in a way, this subject in particular has been unfit for acknowledgement ever since they left Manticore. Even here, where so much else came back within his reach and understanding, where he has so much more, he knows he's not supposed to touch this.
He always wants to, but he's not supposed to. He's deciding, in the private, shining mirror closet of his mind, if he can indulge in it this once. She's new. And no one's ever asked him directly.
Ben clears his throat gently, something in his expression softening.]
[ Spam ]
He's quiet for several moments, as though he's considering not answering at all, as though he doesn't have the answer or maybe it's taboo. It is, in a way, this subject in particular has been unfit for acknowledgement ever since they left Manticore. Even here, where so much else came back within his reach and understanding, where he has so much more, he knows he's not supposed to touch this.
He always wants to, but he's not supposed to. He's deciding, in the private, shining mirror closet of his mind, if he can indulge in it this once. She's new. And no one's ever asked him directly.
Ben clears his throat gently, something in his expression softening.]
Sometimes.