Don’t keep me waiting!”

And it would seem Caspar agrees with that decision. He quickly unfurls the large blanket he’d picked up while Annie got their picnic basket. After taking a moment to make sure it’s smoothed out, he takes a seat on it and pats the spot next to him, all while wearing a big grin.

“C’mon, Lovebug! +

A blush spreads across his face like wildfire the moment she brings up a proposal. Had he been found out? Or was it just coincidence? It takes a moment, but he enthusiastically nods his head.

“Y-yeah! That sounds perfect then! Lead the way!”

“I think that sounds amazing!”

Were she not holding onto him, he would have likely leapt up out of excitement. Instead, he’s left shaking, absolutely raring to go. As her hand gently caresses his cheek, he leans in and gives her a gentle peck on her lips.

“Any preference on where the picnic’s at?”

“Don’t tell me you’ve been cooped up all day putting quill to paper. That’s no fun at all!”

Cue a pout from the fighter. How dare they keep his love busy with… well, busywork!

“Days like these are meant to be spent outside, dontcha think? Preferably with someone ya love!”

too! And now it just so happens she’s right here in my arms. Did ya miss me?”

He sets her back down slowly, and as she turns to face him, his mischievous smile only seems to grow. His hands eventually find their way onto her hips, where his fingers slowly trace the natural curve leading down to her waist.

“What a coincidence! I was looking all over for the love of my life +

No wait, that’s not what I— AGH!

[Well, her kick has no shortage of power, that’s for sure. He crumples to the ground for a moment before forcing himself back up with a long groan. She’s already leagues ahead of him, yet he starts hobbling after her nonetheless.]

Bernie, wait! Come back, will ya?!

training, so it just seems kinda unfair. Not to mention I can’t help but see you as… well, fragile. I’d much rather protect you than fight you.

‘Course not! If I’m gonna insult someone, it’s gonna be to their face! N-not that I would do that to you—

[He lets loose a heavy sigh as his shoulder slump. His gaze slowly drifts to the side.]

Look, I just… I just didn’t /want/ to fight you for real, okay? You barely ever show up for +

Well of course I didn’t… if it was a real opponent on the battlefield, I’d be fighting them to the death. I don’t wanna get anywhere close to that with you. I don’t think I ever could work up the strength to do so if it ever came to that, actually…

[Placing a head on the side of his head while he snickers.]

You’re still caught up on that, huh? Don’t tell me that you still think you didn’t win that fight.

Huh… well, it’s a good thing I stopped I guess! We coulda been here for hours! As much as I like to yell, I dunno if you could hold out half as long as I could.

Wait, I’m only yelling because you’re yelling though.

WHY ARE WE YELLING AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

If I had to guess… he’s probably napping somewhere. Considering it’s cold out, I’d check somewhere warm or with a fireplace. The dining hall and the classrooms might be a good start.

OH!

[Blink, blink. It takes a moment for his eyes to finally widen in understanding.]

Ohhhhhhhhh, that explains /so much/! Okay, uhhhhh, let me think. Where would Lin be this time of day…?

[His gaze drifts as he begins to tap his foot, trying to come up with something… anything.