Re: Boathouse: Hugh & Atticus
"Would never have guessed." Love stories. Grinned a knowing grin. Understood that Hugh was a romantic. Made Hugh who he was. Wasn't a romantic himself, but appreciated it in the other man. "Think sometimes things don't work out, despite our best intentions. Doesn't mean we were wrong about what we thought we had. Just means what we want doesn't necessarily line up with what we need." Was a reality of life. Life wasn't the Disney movie parents sold their kids when they were children. Was better to be realistic, but wasn't writing off the idea of romance altogether. Hoped Hugh found it along the way. "Still, keeping my fingers crossed for you." Almost toasted with his empty coffee cup, but was comfortably stretched out right now. Didn't move.
"Goals are good. Purpose is good. Having something to wake up for and do is good. But don't hide in it. Advice from a man who lives on an island." Was good advice, regardless of where it came from. "Hiding isn't for men like you. Not a hider, Hugh. Haven't known you long, and am still making that call." That wasn't advice precisely, but it kind of was.
Atticus had varying opinions on control. On one hand, was always good to be the one holding your own reins. On the other hand, was liberating to give them up. Thought he might've had a different opinion on this subject before the island, when he'd felt more control. Had an issue with it now, but that issue led to the feeling that the night on the train had been liberating. Conundrum. "Control is complicated," was his final offering. Wisdom in a small sentence, and then he continued: "What makes someone a friend or not?" Another philosophical question, existentialism in a boathouse.