[He's patient as he lets her tell her story. He had suspected the first part given what Natalie's already told him, but it's the rest that's a little heartbreaking.
No wonder. It's no wonder now why Natalie had tried so hard to push people away. It's no wonder Natalie didn't believe in making friends or connections. How could you rely on strangers to become your friends when your own family refused to acknowledge you?
You can't replace people. So…to hear her say that Jason, Xion and himself changed that is a relief. He knows how badly people can mess up when they're ignored and alone. He never wanted that for her from the day they met. Another arm goes around her shoulders for another hug because…what can you even say to that? She's not invisible. She's here.]
It will. I promise. [He rests his face in her shoulder for a moment.] You have become one of the most important people to me. And…I've met guys who tried to destroy the world because their parents neglected them. You chose to try for the better. I want you to be proud of yourself for everything.
[A pause.] And thank you for telling me. I know that kind of thing isn't easy, but you've gotta know you won't be left behind. Not by me, not by Jason, and not by Xion. Never. [A nod.] We'll go together, with Annabeth, and…it'll be perfect. [Or as perfect as he can daydream. But it must be said.]
no subject
No wonder. It's no wonder now why Natalie had tried so hard to push people away. It's no wonder Natalie didn't believe in making friends or connections. How could you rely on strangers to become your friends when your own family refused to acknowledge you?
You can't replace people. So…to hear her say that Jason, Xion and himself changed that is a relief. He knows how badly people can mess up when they're ignored and alone. He never wanted that for her from the day they met. Another arm goes around her shoulders for another hug because…what can you even say to that? She's not invisible. She's here.]
It will. I promise. [He rests his face in her shoulder for a moment.] You have become one of the most important people to me. And…I've met guys who tried to destroy the world because their parents neglected them. You chose to try for the better. I want you to be proud of yourself for everything.
[A pause.] And thank you for telling me. I know that kind of thing isn't easy, but you've gotta know you won't be left behind. Not by me, not by Jason, and not by Xion. Never. [A nod.] We'll go together, with Annabeth, and…it'll be perfect. [Or as perfect as he can daydream. But it must be said.]