[Lakeside Management: Hugh & Atticus]
Atticus was still familiarizing himself with town. Had been spending a lot of time in the Capital out of necessity. Was easier to go to Second City there, and Second City was a great place to find occult books. Was still figuring out the runes. Was still figuring out what the runes meant. Was trying to understand the new things going on with his body. Sounded like puberty when he thought the words to himself, but there was definitely something new. Something going on. Had deliberately not inquired about the runes too much beforehand, but there was no going back now; wanted to figure it all out. On top of that, there was the new bookstore. On top of the bookstore, there was the situation with Lear. Also had to figure out how to handle Hazel. Needed to have a conversation with Rey. Complications.
But today he was strolling around Repose. Was still cold, but Spring was in the air. Had parked the car downtown and looked in all the windows before going to get the milk he'd promised to bring to Hugh's. Wasn't anything special. The milk. Milks. Had two bottles in a reusable fabric bag. Reduced fat, and whole milk. Carried the bag as he got out of his parked car outside Hugh's place. Was interesting, coming to the front door for a change.
Was dressed in black denim and a comfortable sweater. Had shaved, but was slightly stubbly. Had been shaving regularly since acquiring the runes. One was visible at the side of his neck. A rune. Rubbed it as he rang the doorbell, and handed the bag over when Hugh opened the door. "Milk," he said, probably unnecessarily. "Thanks for the invitation," he said as he waited to be motioned inside. Was comfortable. Looked better than he had during those boathouse visit; saner. There was something to be said for not being stuck on an island anymore. Wasn't smoking. Had stubbed his smoke out before exiting the car. Was polite like that on occasion.