Yes, retired, [he confirms with a gentle smile, though there is a hint of nostalgia in his voice.] I suppose I may not look the part, do I? Perhaps I've managed to preserve my youth better than most, or maybe I simply have good genes.
[As Ajax recounts his challenging day, Zhongli listens with empathy, his thoughts drifting to times when he himself had been neck-deep in work, striving to keep his family afloat despite the odds. He admires Ajax's resilience, recognizing a kindred spirit. Hardy, driven. Ambitious, if he were to make assumptions.]
I'm very sorry to hear that, Ajax, [Zhongli offers sincerely, his gaze softening with empathy. He can't help but reflect on his past, the times when things went awry for his family. Those were days when he'd find himself neck-deep in work, dealing with the aftermath and trying to piece things back together.
Yet, amidst the memories, there's a sense of gratitude for the present moment, for the chance to enjoy a meal with someone as vibrant and spirited as Ajax. There's a genuine desire to offer comfort, to be a source of solace in times of trouble.] It sounds like you've had quite the challenging day. But I'm glad I could offer some reprieve. While ice cream and firewater may have their appeal, I believe enjoying a meal with good company may lighten your heart better.
[Perhaps this is an attempt at light-hearted conversation, but Zhongli can't help himself, shifting his weight on the stately chair of the restaurant and tracing the brim of his cup thoughtfully with the tip of his finger.] You're welcome anytime, Ajax. If you ever need someone to talk to or just a distraction from the challenges of the day, you know how to find me.
[As he speaks, the fingers on the cup move to brush lightly against Ajax's. Then, with a smile that could be described as coy, Zhongli leans in slightly, earnest. His security detail would have his neck if he could for offering his availability so promptly. But he's aware that Xiao always will defer to his own decisions, so he'll only have Zhongli's ears instead.]
Would you care to join me for a walk in the harbor after our meal? It always helps me clear my mind when I'm troubled. Perhaps you'd like that too?
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Yes, retired, [he confirms with a gentle smile, though there is a hint of nostalgia in his voice.] I suppose I may not look the part, do I? Perhaps I've managed to preserve my youth better than most, or maybe I simply have good genes.
[As Ajax recounts his challenging day, Zhongli listens with empathy, his thoughts drifting to times when he himself had been neck-deep in work, striving to keep his family afloat despite the odds. He admires Ajax's resilience, recognizing a kindred spirit. Hardy, driven. Ambitious, if he were to make assumptions.]
I'm very sorry to hear that, Ajax, [Zhongli offers sincerely, his gaze softening with empathy. He can't help but reflect on his past, the times when things went awry for his family. Those were days when he'd find himself neck-deep in work, dealing with the aftermath and trying to piece things back together.
Yet, amidst the memories, there's a sense of gratitude for the present moment, for the chance to enjoy a meal with someone as vibrant and spirited as Ajax. There's a genuine desire to offer comfort, to be a source of solace in times of trouble.] It sounds like you've had quite the challenging day. But I'm glad I could offer some reprieve. While ice cream and firewater may have their appeal, I believe enjoying a meal with good company may lighten your heart better.
[Perhaps this is an attempt at light-hearted conversation, but Zhongli can't help himself, shifting his weight on the stately chair of the restaurant and tracing the brim of his cup thoughtfully with the tip of his finger.] You're welcome anytime, Ajax. If you ever need someone to talk to or just a distraction from the challenges of the day, you know how to find me.
[As he speaks, the fingers on the cup move to brush lightly against Ajax's. Then, with a smile that could be described as coy, Zhongli leans in slightly, earnest. His security detail would have his neck if he could for offering his availability so promptly. But he's aware that Xiao always will defer to his own decisions, so he'll only have Zhongli's ears instead.]
Would you care to join me for a walk in the harbor after our meal? It always helps me clear my mind when I'm troubled. Perhaps you'd like that too?