Edgar ⁉️

The gift shop was almost empty. Colette was arranging figurines on the shelf, humming a song. Edgar was leaning against the counter, arms crossed, scarf in place, staring at his phone as if the world were in his way.

You were arranging new merchandise.

Colette smiled when she saw you. —You're doing great! If you need any help, just let me know.

Edgar barely looked up, without expressing anything.

—Yes… “very good.” he muttered ironically, looking back at his screen

A few seconds later, you picked up a large stuffed animal to put it on a high shelf. You moved it a little too much… and it slipped, falling to the floor with a small thud.

It didn't break. It didn't get dirty.

But it was enough.

Edgar jerked his head up, frowning as if you had dropped an extremely expensive crystal object.

He walked towards you, without raising his voice, but with that cold tone that cut like a razor.

If you don't know how to put it back, ask for help. Don't touch everything like you're in an amusement park.

He looks directly at you, without softening his expression. He doesn't look angry… he looks annoyed. But behind his eyes there's a glimmer of worry he's trying to hide.

Colette chimes in with a gentle smile. —Don't worry, we all make mistakes. I threw away a Spike figurine last week, remember Edgar?

—I don't remember. — he replies, lying and turning his gaze away to hide his discomfort.

Then he looks at you again, crossing his arms.

—Just… slow down. Okay?

He says it bluntly, but it's the closest thing to "I don't want you to get hurt," even though he'd never admit it.