Hyrazbinlot

Introducing Friends

Father seems to already know as his response was only a knowing grin mixed with a smug smirk.

The rest of us, however, had a very different reaction.

Minevra, Aaron, and I all reacted with different levels of shock. (According to facial expressions.)

Aaron looks the most shocked.

If he had not just swallowed his mouthful of food, he likely would have choked.

I can tell by his face that he had not realized that Alastor is homosexual.

Minevra is less surprised.

As though she had a hunch, but was not expecting to be right.

Then there is me.

I knew he was into men.

But I never thought he would have the nerve to say it to someone he had just met.

My father spoke first.

"How very brave of you. 

Might I ask what led you to believe that it was safe to come out and say that in a room full of perfect strangers?"

Alastor keeps smiling.

He never stops.

It changes to match his emotions, but that is all.

This time it is matter of fact.

"You knew.

It was evident by the look in your eyes."

My father nods, impressed.

See, my father has a tendency to keep his face either stern or altogether emotionless.

Especially around strangers.

If he smiles, it is out of politeness.

The knowing look earlier had been the only "slip up" so far.

Any other time and only Arthur, Minevra, and I can tell how he feels unless his tone gives it away.

"A perceptive lad, you are.

That is good.

Brilliant, even.

What is your profession?"

What the hell is he trying to do?

See if he is worthy of my hand?

How would that work?

And since when did he care?

Alastor just answers without hesitation.

"I am a traveler.

Although I have been known to linger in places that catch my fancy.

Such as this place.

This kingdom is very lovely.

I hear the queen and princess are really kind.

Especially the princess."

My father just nods.

"How interesting."

Minevra speaks up, knowing that father is done talking.

"Do you have a place to stay?"

Alastor nods, although his eyes show a deeply rooted loneliness.

I'm the only one who notices though.

"Oh, yes! I have a room at the local inn!"

He says with insincere joy.

But you are lonely there.