[This is a blushing contest, clearly, because the heat in her face doubles.]
Th-Thank you. [Whatever word he uses, it's still a compliment, and one from him, and Chloe's not well-adjusted to either.
She smooths the skirt of her dress down (unnecessary, but she suddenly feels the need to do something with her hands, and it gives her an excuse to look away) as she focuses on the less awkward part of the conversation.]
Oh -- I, um -- I told him we have family visiting tonight. Your family, obviously. [Which should be a safe lie. For Senel's benefit, she adds,] Family is typically the only acceptable excuse for turning down such an offer, particularly from someone in a position of authority. I assumed that if they press you for details, you could talk about Shirley. I didn't name any of your relatives in particular.
[She left him some freedom, basically. She figures it beats giving him a script to memorize.]
no subject
Th-Thank you. [Whatever word he uses, it's still a compliment, and one from him, and Chloe's not well-adjusted to either.
She smooths the skirt of her dress down (unnecessary, but she suddenly feels the need to do something with her hands, and it gives her an excuse to look away) as she focuses on the less awkward part of the conversation.]
Oh -- I, um -- I told him we have family visiting tonight. Your family, obviously. [Which should be a safe lie. For Senel's benefit, she adds,] Family is typically the only acceptable excuse for turning down such an offer, particularly from someone in a position of authority. I assumed that if they press you for details, you could talk about Shirley. I didn't name any of your relatives in particular.
[She left him some freedom, basically. She figures it beats giving him a script to memorize.]