014

[remarkablyblunt]

Hello, one and all! My name's Tommy, and I run the reading room here. I see a few of you have already found it, just be careful to put all the books back exactly where you found them. If you've got any questions about the filing system, don't hesitate to ask! I'll be... well, I'll be in the reading room.

Comments

[remarkablyblunt]

No. ...Why?

I'm perfectly content dressing as-is.

[everylittlegirl]

You're older than most. I'm curious why someone of your age would choose to offer education in an outdoors camp if you are not dating someone.

Fair.

[remarkablyblunt]

Oh, it's relaxing. I used to come here when I was a kid and I guess I just never stopped.

Thanks anyway.

[everylittlegirl]

You enjoy this place? You must teach me how that's possible.

[remarkablyblunt]

Well, by... just enjoying it, I suppose. Why don't you?

Private

[everylittlegirl]

Too many expectations.

Private

[remarkablyblunt]

You mean you don't want to dress in a bikini and splash around provocatively in front of a bunch of teenage boys?

Or do you mean less physical expectations?

Private

[everylittlegirl]

The first. I feel that by not being interested in sex, illegal substances, or sports, I have already excluded myself from the Camp's focus. I endeavor a group of elite to occupy my time, yet most are as arrogant, naturally, as I may strive to be.

Private

[remarkablyblunt]

You can always spend your time in the reading room. There's no sex, drugs, or rock and roll allowed. And certainly not sports.

And campfire singalongs are always fun.

Private

[everylittlegirl]

With you?

I respectfully disagree.

Private

[remarkablyblunt]

You don't have to be seen with me if my clothing embarrasses you that much, but I'll be around.

Fire and singing, some marshmallows if you're lucky? What could possibly be wrong with that?

Private

[everylittlegirl]

I believe I could manage. It would be nice to have some elder, more mature company.

It's dirty, flamboyant, and often chaotic. I prefer classical music anyway; the lack of culture is never more apparent than at the campfire gatherings.

Private

[remarkablyblunt]

I'm afraid I'm about as old as you'll get around here, but compared to most I should have a beard down to my waist and be using a walker, so it's probably alright.

That's all true, and a good bit of Bach never hurt anyone, but... nobody ever laughs when classical music's playing.

Private

[everylittlegirl]

I'm not even certain I understand what you mean, but I agree you are old.. as I have stated before.

And you find it necessary to laugh to obtain enjoyment?

Private

[remarkablyblunt]

Oh, I get enjoyment from sitting quietly reading the New York Times, but I have, on occasion, been known to seek out things that make me laugh.

Private

[everylittlegirl]

I can't tell if you're mocking me.

Private

[remarkablyblunt]

Certainly not!

Private

[everylittlegirl]

What time do you close the cabin? Perhaps I will spend some time there this evening, after dinner.

Private

[remarkablyblunt]

About 8 o'clock, usually.

Private

[everylittlegirl]

I'm not certain I'll be able to make it by until 7. Do you think you might consider extending the hours until 9? It could become a routine.

Private

[remarkablyblunt]

You'd still have to be back to your cabin by curfew, but I'm usually around a bit late anyway, so if I end up staying til 9 you certainly can too.

Private

[everylittlegirl]

I'll be back with plenty of time. Would you be willing to walk me back toward the main cabins if it is after dark, though? I admit I'm not confident about wandering the grounds alone.

Private

[remarkablyblunt]

Of course! What are gentlemen for if not walking young ladies back to their cabins after dark?

Private

[everylittlegirl]

Thank you. Forgive my manners, I'd forgotten to ask your name?

Private

[remarkablyblunt]

Tommy. Tommy Beresford. And you are?