❛ how long has it been?❜ the countess will inquire softly as she looks upon her one TRUE friend. she’s asking about her death, liz’s, a saddened look upon her face. though elizabeth was and is honored to have been the one to help the other transition ONE LAST TIME, it does not lift the sorrow that weighs heavy on her shoulders. emerald gaze taking liz in, the countess attempts a smile as she reaches out for the other’s hand to take into one of her own.
the countess’s extended grasp is given into easily, without the hesitation that previously laced fingers. it’s a small act of trust –– a quiet show of friendship: a hopeful prospect that did not stray far from liz’s mind after her death. it lingered, & though she has not yet had the courage to initiate the conversation, she cherishes the little time they spend together. ❛ oh, ❜ the noise slips out on the bough of an exhale, lips pursing into a small smile as she looks to the other, ❛ ––– a few weeks. it’s. . . different, but i’m getting used to it. ❜
