Re: in-person: neil & mere
[It wasn't home, not really. It was just a place, space filled with furniture and other things, somewhere he'd be alone, alone, alone. But Neil had brought that on himself. He'd made his choices, and so he had to bear the consequences.] It's really no trouble. I... don't mind. [Even as he said the words, part of him knew he wouldn't be able to convince her to stay. He stood when she did, and he tried to keep himself together, to maintain his composure, but it was difficult. Like holding up cement blocks, a struggle that weighed and wore him down.] Oh, Mere. I'd never avoid you. [His voice was quiet. Another door, then. He wanted to ask where, did he have the right?] Is it... somewhere nice? [Small talk would be too hard. If they were going to do this, really do this, maybe it needed to be a proper break. Real space, time spent apart.
For a moment, he faltered. Was this the right thing to do? He thought about changing his mind, about asking her to stay. Maybe, maybe, but they'd tried that before, and nothing changed.
He tried for a smile, but it was weak. Shaky.] I'm sorry, Mere. I am. I didn't... I never wanted this. [Pathetic. He sounded pathetic. He kept watching her, waiting, and his gaze dropped to her hand when she spoke.] I... alright. [He held out his hand, open, palm up.]