but oh what a year

[patrols]

Comments

[matriarchate]

She had a lot of time on her hands, before. And she's very giving.

( She accepts the gift and makes a mental note that she'll have to get her back. Even so, she sighs and sits back, undoing her wrapping and box top. )

[braveandstupid]

[Inside, is some slick new archery gear - a new sight for her compound bow and, as well as some new gloves.]

Sam helped me figure out what you need, and I think he asked your dad? If I didn't get the right stuff, let me know and we can swap it for the right stuff.

[Ben, on the other side of her, pulls out the screen print t-shirt, and when he reads what's on it ("My life was ruined by the supernatural and all I got was this stupid t-shirt"), he laughs, before shaking his head. "Clever. You know I can't weart this anywhere, right?"

Elena grins.]

Yeah, but we're still getting to know each other, so I went for the easy joke.

[matriarchate]

No, this should all work real nicely.

( It's very her. Tactical and functional. She looks up, grinning. )

Thank you, Elena.

( She looks over at Ben's shirt. )

You could always sleep in it. Or save it for the mornings. Or, when you get home from work. Is it soft? It looks soft.

[braveandstupid]

["It is soft," he admits with a nod. "Thank you."]

You are very welcome. And I'm really glad both of you came.

[But especially Ben. This is good for everyone all around.]

[matriarchate]

It kind of came with the girlfriend territory, but, me, too, Elena. And you, Ben. We're all happy you made it.

( What it must be like to be the topic of conversation across the party, she doesn't know. She's never been that special, and never tried to be. )

[acdc_rules]

I'm glad I was invited.

[Which is really all it takes. To be wanted, at the end of the day.]

And I'm going to go get some more food. But I'll see you both later?

[Elena nods. "Make sure you get some of the lasagna before it's gone. It is Stefan's specialty for a reason."]

[matriarchate]

I know where I'm going next.

( She closes the box, holding it to herself, as she stands. )

Have you eaten, or just dropped gifts off?

[braveandstupid]

I've nibbled. And I do have more gifts to distribute.

[She smiles and gives her shoulder a squeeze.]

I'll catch up with you guys in the kitchen later.

[matriarchate]

Promise me you'll do more than nibble?

( OK? )

OK. I'm holding you to that. And I will send Bonnie after you if I don't see a full plate, or any plate.

[braveandstupid]

I promise. In fact, I will send you a picture of it.

[And if it helps, she also hasn't really been drinking (yet) so she's doing okay.]