Harper isn’t intentionally looking for Edmund when he comes across the boy. With all of Torchline’s moving parts and individuals to keep track of, Harper nevertheless keeps a stringent eye on the young boy’s schedule - including the habits and favorite spots that deviated from those set times of play dates and school hours. So when Edmund doesn’t arrive after school as planned, admittedly Harper adjusts his evening patrol check-in to swing by the boy’s favorite haunts.
And, well, lo and behold.
It’s clear he’s upset about something, and Harper doesn’t plan on twiddling his thumbs about it. Gracefully lowering himself next to Edmund in the sand, he bumps shoulders gently with the boy, head tilted closer to the child’s level. Wholly focused on him without physically crowding. “Hey buddy,” he says softly, smile warm but eyes understanding. Instead of immediately forcing the issue with a question that most any child would evade or deny, Harper turns to look out at the water. “I noticed you didn’t come straight home after school. I know it’s a little too cold still to swim - something on your mind?” Forearms rest comfortably atop his knees as he gazes over the horizon. Letting the unspoken offer to talk hang there without being conspicuous or overbearing.
And, well, lo and behold.
It’s clear he’s upset about something, and Harper doesn’t plan on twiddling his thumbs about it. Gracefully lowering himself next to Edmund in the sand, he bumps shoulders gently with the boy, head tilted closer to the child’s level. Wholly focused on him without physically crowding. “Hey buddy,” he says softly, smile warm but eyes understanding. Instead of immediately forcing the issue with a question that most any child would evade or deny, Harper turns to look out at the water. “I noticed you didn’t come straight home after school. I know it’s a little too cold still to swim - something on your mind?” Forearms rest comfortably atop his knees as he gazes over the horizon. Letting the unspoken offer to talk hang there without being conspicuous or overbearing.
Harper
