Flutter

Flutter: Neuf (1/2)

"No, it's more than that." Blaine began, placing his hands into the pockets of his navy blue slacks.

"I wanted to thank you for all you've done for my children. It's so very appreciated, not just by them, but by me."

"It's no trouble. You have terrific kids." 

"You don't understand. I feel indebted to you. I mean, before you came along, my children weren't happy. Happy enough. I do the most I can but it's hard to do it somewhat one sided." Blaine said, a hint of sadness in his voice. "Their life was, well, banal before you  Nora. And I know it hasn't been easy for you here, but I hope you've found as much joy in them, as they have found in you."

Nora placed a hand on Blaine's arm, humbled by his gratitude.

"Believe me when I say I have." She said, warmly. "Honestly, I need them more than they need me really." 

Blaine's head raised and he looked at Nora intently then, searching for her sincerity in her eyes. He found it, for he placed his hand over hers. 

"Well, then, I am at your service. I must repay you. Is there anything that you require? Anything at all?"

"Nothing. Nearly all my needs are provided for her. Mary sees to that. Though the kids need some more sunscreen."

"If I cannot provide anything material, I'll just have to provide you some comfort. When you first came here, I promised to be a friend to you. How are you faring? I know that Quinton's been quite heavy handed lately. Are you okay?"

Nora sighed and went to sit. Blaine followed suit.

Nora was quiet for a moment, deciding whether she could truly trust Blaine. She had a number of feelings buried underneath her breast bone. Things she wanted to talk to but her father...her brother...they wouldn't get it. They couldn't get how she could be unhappy here in this big house with everything at her fingertips. Blaine was here, aware of the situation. However, he was Quinton's right hand man. Would anything they say stay between them? She didn't want to make Blaine uncomfortable or place herself in an uncomfortable position but she had to vent. 

"Tell me Nora, are you okay?" He repeated.

"Yes and no. It's been so tough dealing with him - with all of this. It seems that every time we make to talk, we  argue. I'm not used to this kind of tumult. Back in Wicks, it was all peace and quiet." Nora said, slumping in her chair.

"Quinton is a hard man to live with. I know this from experience. He's used to having people follow his orders, and I'm afraid that you're a tad bit to willful for his tastes."

"But that's the thing!" Nora said heatedly, sitting up straight and leaning towards Blaine. "I'm not willful! What person likes to be threatened? Who likes to be told that they are beneath someone else? I just want to be treated like a human being."

"You are right on all those points, Nora. Though, the fact of the matter is that we are not just human beings. We are wolves, like it or not. Our heritage and lifestyle is built upon traditions that have been cultivated over the span of countless millenia. It's been infused into our D.N.A. It cannot be broken, tweaked perhaps, but not broken. Our blood dictates that we listen to those who rule above us and for whatever reason your blood doesn't speak to you the same way." Blaine passionately explained.

"That isn't my fault."

"No, but it isn't Quinton's fault either. His title requires him to be very demanding. There are wolves who do not like to stay within the lines. If he and the leaders were not forceful, order would be lost. Complete chaos."