@cressreference "You can stay as long as you like," he says, his voice full of comfort. "And it is not just my residence, it is yours too. It's our residence, our house."
He wants so much to hold her hand, but he can't. Not now. He will be her shelter for as long as she needs.
"Are you alright, cara mia?"
He finally says it, his voice laced with so much concern after ordering his newsboys about to write the most sordid article in the history of the papers. In the comforts and safety of his office, he asks her finally,
[CONT.]
@cressreference "The queen cherishes Rosmier, more than we think. So if we sow the seeds of doubt, it would cut a bit of Rosmier's influence," Milverton chuckles. "Our newspaper does get around, after all."
He will continue to use his power to protect her. Always. To protect Cressida.
@cressreference He chuckles darkly.
"A game of who's who's dog is back and forth with Rosmier and the queen," Milverton says. "The Messervys and the Talbots are in the crossfire, but just bring the woman down, and we are set. But we have to speak to the queen.
[CONT.]
@cressreference "You're saying he's not supposed to know about it."
Puzzling. Odd. He needs to know more about it, even if he has to pry and pry. Because this way, he can help Cressida more.
"I need more information, love. So that I can assist you better."
@cressreference "Tell me the details, cara mia," he smirks. "I'll gladly be whatever you want me to be."
They're getting somewhere. Anything for his beloved serpent. Anything.
@cressreference "Rowson, Rowson....You bought wine from his shop?" he asked, trying to connect the dots. "Was there a covert investigation?"
They're playing detective again, the two snakes. Much needs to be thought about.
@cressreference "That's different. It might be a day or two before I can safely touch you, cara mia."
He does think though....what is a man like Rowson doing there?
"Perhaps we need to investigate him more," he says. "Rowson normally doesn't go out much."
@cressreference He manages a chuckle, before drinking. She knows just what he likes.
"Mind you, I am quite used to it, I'm not squeamish," Milverton smiles. "But I cannot touch you for the time being because I don't want my darling to be soiled."
For once in his life, he cares so much.
@cressreference "Don't dirty your hands," Milverton suddenly, but quietly says. "Please try not to touch me, you will dirty yourself."
For someone who does not care about boundaries or personal space, he wants his dear darling to not touch a vile being like him.
"I will take care of it."
@cressreference "I'm sorry. I am sorry. I came too late."
He sounds so vulnerable, so helpless, when he thinks of back then. All he can do is apologize to her. He sits at his desk, lowering his head while he looks at the nonsensical words on the paper below him.
"I'm sorry."
@POISONOBLE@cressreference And he leans in....to lick his cheek. All of it. Slowly.
"I won't leave you alone, my pretty boy. I've taken such a liking to you that I will be sending you love letters every single day."
And with that, he stands up, tips his hat, and leaves.
@POISONOBLE@cressreference but the /whole/ body of my journalists, Rowson. Defaming her and outraging her modesty is akin to defaming the newsroom, and outraging the newsroom's modesty. And you know what I do to those who offend my staff, be it her, or even the youngest paper boy down the street."
[CONT.]