(no subject)

[gabriel_tam]

He's planned for this discussion as carefully as he would for any business meeting. It's not entirely inaccurate in comparison: after all, in addition to being husband and wife, Gabriel and Regan Tam are something of a team when it comes to such matters.

And given recent developments, there are certain things of which Regan must now be made aware. This evening is as good a time as any for it; they have no social engagements, nor are there any other obligations or commitments that must be kept.

Save only for the one that he has made to himself-- for a variety of reasons.

Dinner is ending when Gabriel leans back in his chair, picking up his wineglass. "It was an excellent meal, Regan. My compliments to the chef."

Comments

[regan_tam]

Regan closes her eyes, one hand rising to press cold fingertips to her temple.

She looks older than she did half an hour ago, grey and lined and tired.

"You always did have that fire," she murmurs, with a brief twitch of what could be a smile but isn't, quite. Too weary and heartsick for that.

"I need to think," she says. Only a fraction louder, and her eyes still closed. "Don't ask me to decide now."

Mirroring his phrasing isn't conscious.

[gabriel_tam]

It's only a momentary slip, that break in the line of his shoulders, the unguarded expression of weary disappointment on his face. It's gone by the time he sits back in his chair, long gone by the time she opens her eyes.

He had hoped-- still, perhaps time will change things. Gabriel tells himself to be fair; Regan has had a terrible shock this evening, one he can well understand.

"Are you a man of faith, Gabriel Tam?"

"All right." His answer is quiet. "We have a little bit yet-- take your time."

A beat and then he adds, "I don't think I need to caution you not to mention this to anyone, Regan-- but be especially careful, please, what you say and to whom, and where." Gabriel's smile is brief and very dry. "Consider us already in the public eye, if you would."

[regan_tam]

Regan nods.

Something to get used to. If this happens... there will be no time, perhaps, when they're not. Even in their own home.

And then she rises, and hurries blindly out of the room, arms wrapping over her stomach and hands clutching her elbows, as if with the pressure of her fingers on her raw-silk sleeves she can hold herself together.

Suddenly, she needs desperately to be alone.

[gabriel_tam]

Gabriel watches her go, and then he buries his face in his hands.

Several long moments pass, during which he remains silent and very still. The light, airy notes of the programmed musical selection continue to play, masking the emptiness left in the wake of Regan's sudden departure.

Eventually, he takes a deep breath and straightens, then stands. She needs time-- he'll give it to her. That much he can give. Meanwhile, there's work to be done.

With quick, determined steps, Gabriel Tam leaves the room for his office, shutting off the music as he goes.