Different RPs

James turned red. "He didn't say anything horrible that I know of. He's not a man to mince words."

"Normally he'd say something bad?"

"I've lost quite a few friends," James admitted.

"Because he didn't like them?"

"Exactly, he didn't approve. He found something wanting in everyone so far."

"And that's why you didn't want him to meet me?"

James sucked in a deep breath and held it, his hand tracing patterns on his leg. "He can be a jerk, Rani."

"Maybe he's forgotten how to love," she whispered.

James nodded. "He forgot a long time ago. I want him to remember so much." His eyes filled with tears and he looked away.

Rana moved and wrapped her arms around him. "He will one day," she murmured. "Let's take a walk."

James wiped at his eyes and nodded. "It's not fair, Rani. I'm sorry, I should have better control."

"Hush, it is my turn to comfort you." She wiped his eyes lovingly. "People can change."

"I wish it was reversed," James muttered. "Your dad was alive and mine was gone." He was getting control of himself, seeming

very much like his father just then.

"Shh, you know that you wouldn't. Despite it all you do love him."

"But, does he love me?" James whispered. "Sometimes I'm not so sure. He provides for me, yes, but it's like I embarrass him."

"Deep down I think he does. How can he not? He's just forgotten what is important and how to show it."

"How can a parent forget something like that?" James asked in exasperation. He walked with her to the end of the aisle. "I

never would."

"I know you wouldn't," she whispered. "And I don't know. Sometimes power affects people in the wrong way."

James drew in a deep breath. "You're right. Let's talk about something else, okay?" He didn't want to ruin their date with

talk of his father.

Rana kissed his cheek. "I'm here anytime you need me." She squeezed his hand as they left the theatre. She looked at the

stars. "Have you ever danced under the stars?"

James shook his head. "Never, Rani," he muttered. "It seems very romantic."

"Will you dance with me?" she murmured.

James nodded, shedding the blanket and taking her hands in his. "I love you so much."