[It's the best acknowledgement Hubert could give. He didn't have the luxury to tell Leslie to "take her time" or "I'll be here." The recent disappearances were a stark reminder that he very well might not be.]
[But being called Hubert catches him slightly off guard; he blinks, and doesn't respond immediately.]
[What was there to say but "let me go with them?" What was in their power to do, and what could even be done about it? The girl just lost a mother. Selfish wishes should not be her burden.]
[So Hubert ultimately shakes his head.] I will manage. [Somehow.] You needn't be concerned with me, though I appreciate your consideration.
no subject
[It's the best acknowledgement Hubert could give. He didn't have the luxury to tell Leslie to "take her time" or "I'll be here." The recent disappearances were a stark reminder that he very well might not be.]
[But being called Hubert catches him slightly off guard; he blinks, and doesn't respond immediately.]
[What was there to say but "let me go with them?" What was in their power to do, and what could even be done about it? The girl just lost a mother. Selfish wishes should not be her burden.]
[So Hubert ultimately shakes his head.] I will manage. [Somehow.] You needn't be concerned with me, though I appreciate your consideration.