48 min read
Show Me the Future
August 6, 2016
◈ WHO: Oliver and Reuben (Bouquet of Diamonds & Skyeforge)
◈ WHEN: Early afternoon on August 6, 2016
◈ WHERE: The lake and forest near Oliver's home.
◈ WEATHER: Warm and somewhat humid. Sunny.
◈ WHEN: Early afternoon on August 6, 2016
◈ WHERE: The lake and forest near Oliver's home.
◈ WEATHER: Warm and somewhat humid. Sunny.
Water. Typically refreshing, calming, but not today. At least not for Oliver. He'd slipped out of the house, determined to beat his sudden slump of late-summer depression, and sought out the lake as a way to cope. However, when he rose to the surface after a half-hour dip and slinked toward the trees again, all he could find to think about was the same anxieties as before.
The blond held his towel over his forehead and looked out across the lake, his lips dipping down and pursing. How was he supposed to shake these feelings away? Nothing seemed to be working, and he'd tried everything he knew how to do. There was only so much tea and swimming you could do before you had to stand up and face your feelings head on, but he just didn't seem to have the energy anymore. These issues, the breakup, everything about those days in university, they were so long ago. Why couldn't his mind understand that? Why did these memories have to drag him down?
He leaned back and let his head rest against the trunk behind him. He knew he had so much to look forward to. His Raevan, his birthday, barbecues, holiday parties... But with this unwelcome weight of sadness sitting upon his shoulders, he didn't feel very excited at all. Still, he knew giving up wasn't a way out of this, and neither was doing nothing. There had to be something, anything, that would bring him comfort and help him through this. All he wanted was a sign that hope was still worth holding on to, and he didn't mind what that sign was, just as long as it came along soon.
The blond held his towel over his forehead and looked out across the lake, his lips dipping down and pursing. How was he supposed to shake these feelings away? Nothing seemed to be working, and he'd tried everything he knew how to do. There was only so much tea and swimming you could do before you had to stand up and face your feelings head on, but he just didn't seem to have the energy anymore. These issues, the breakup, everything about those days in university, they were so long ago. Why couldn't his mind understand that? Why did these memories have to drag him down?
He leaned back and let his head rest against the trunk behind him. He knew he had so much to look forward to. His Raevan, his birthday, barbecues, holiday parties... But with this unwelcome weight of sadness sitting upon his shoulders, he didn't feel very excited at all. Still, he knew giving up wasn't a way out of this, and neither was doing nothing. There had to be something, anything, that would bring him comfort and help him through this. All he wanted was a sign that hope was still worth holding on to, and he didn't mind what that sign was, just as long as it came along soon.
The forest was Reuben’s sanctuary, a place where the world’s noise faded into the whispers of rustling leaves and distant birdsong. It was why he chose to leave the city and settle in the countryside, away from the clamor of civilization and closer to the peace of nature. This morning, the urge to explore stirred him before dawn, a quiet excitement urging him deeper into the woods. A drive would have been easier, but Reuben didn’t seek ease — he craved connection. A hike was the only way to embrace the forest in its entirety.
Dressed in cargo shorts, a worn t-shirt, and sturdy hiking boots, Reuben grabbed his pack and headed out. The air was cool, still clinging to the last remnants of dawn’s chill, with a gentle breeze that carried the scent of pine and earth. By mid-morning, he was well beyond the familiar trails, the canopy above parting just enough for the warm sunlight to dapple the path ahead.
As the morning stretched on, he found himself at a secluded lake, its surface shimmering beneath the sun’s rays. He paused, taking in the tranquil scene, the water so still it mirrored the sky in perfect clarity. Setting his pack down on a flat rock, Reuben looked up and noticed a figure leaning against a tree — a slim man with tousled blonde hair, lost in thought.
A smile crept onto Reuben’s face. It was rare to see another soul this far out. He hadn't ventured this deeply into the forest before, but even so, he hadn’t expected company. Maybe a conversation would be a pleasant change from the solitude. Reuben picked up his pack and made his way over, his footsteps light on the forest floor.
“Hey there!” he called, his voice friendly and warm as he approached. He slid his sunglasses up onto his head, ruffling his messy hair in the process. “Quite the view, isn’t it?” Reuben continued, his gaze shifting to the sunlit lake. There was a gentle curiosity in his tone, an unspoken invitation to share the moment.
Dressed in cargo shorts, a worn t-shirt, and sturdy hiking boots, Reuben grabbed his pack and headed out. The air was cool, still clinging to the last remnants of dawn’s chill, with a gentle breeze that carried the scent of pine and earth. By mid-morning, he was well beyond the familiar trails, the canopy above parting just enough for the warm sunlight to dapple the path ahead.
As the morning stretched on, he found himself at a secluded lake, its surface shimmering beneath the sun’s rays. He paused, taking in the tranquil scene, the water so still it mirrored the sky in perfect clarity. Setting his pack down on a flat rock, Reuben looked up and noticed a figure leaning against a tree — a slim man with tousled blonde hair, lost in thought.
A smile crept onto Reuben’s face. It was rare to see another soul this far out. He hadn't ventured this deeply into the forest before, but even so, he hadn’t expected company. Maybe a conversation would be a pleasant change from the solitude. Reuben picked up his pack and made his way over, his footsteps light on the forest floor.
“Hey there!” he called, his voice friendly and warm as he approached. He slid his sunglasses up onto his head, ruffling his messy hair in the process. “Quite the view, isn’t it?” Reuben continued, his gaze shifting to the sunlit lake. There was a gentle curiosity in his tone, an unspoken invitation to share the moment.
Oliver, to put it bluntly, was surprised to see Reuben approaching him. It wasn't like strangers never came out this far into the forest, it was just rare enough to make him look twice. He wiggled up, the towel once on his head sliding off and onto his shoulders, and moved to nudge himself to his feet. However, he paused long enough to study Reuben as he moved his sunglasses aside.
Talk about a beautiful sight.
"Yes!" He said, his immediately averting his gaze to the lake and rising to his feet. "This lake is always at it's best around now, especially with this kind of weather. It's a shame that it doesn't get many visitors besides myself."
He rubbed the back of his head and grasped the edge of the towel before it slipped off his shoulders. Then, he turned back to Reuben.
"Speaking of that, I'm Oliver. What can I call you?" He asked, offering a shy, but genuine smile.
Talk about a beautiful sight.
"Yes!" He said, his immediately averting his gaze to the lake and rising to his feet. "This lake is always at it's best around now, especially with this kind of weather. It's a shame that it doesn't get many visitors besides myself."
He rubbed the back of his head and grasped the edge of the towel before it slipped off his shoulders. Then, he turned back to Reuben.
"Speaking of that, I'm Oliver. What can I call you?" He asked, offering a shy, but genuine smile.
The lake was mesmerizing, its waters shimmering under the golden rays of the sun, casting ripples of light that danced across its surface. Reuben couldn’t help but be captivated by both the view and the company. The man — Oliver — spoke with an easy confidence, his voice carrying a gentle cadence that Reuben found himself drawn to. There was something magnetic about him, an intriguing presence that made Reuben want to know more.
When Oliver paused, Reuben nodded thoughtfully, his eyes still lingering on the serene waters. “I couldn’t agree more,” Reuben replied. “This is my first time stumbling upon this spot. It’s only about an hour’s hike from where I live, so I should really come out here more often.” His voice carried a note of quiet appreciation, as if he were sharing a secret.
As Oliver turned to him, slipping a towel off his shoulders, Reuben felt a momentary pang of self-consciousness for not having introduced himself sooner. He was usually more direct, but something about the encounter felt unhurried, almost as if this moment wasn’t meant to be rushed.
Reuben extended a hand with a bright smile. “Reuben Rothmore. But everyone calls me Reu,” he introduced, his tone warm and genuine. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Oliver.”
There was a brief, comfortable silence before Reuben’s curiosity got the better of him. “So, Oliver,” he began, tilting his head slightly, “what brings you to the lake today?” His question was casual, but his gaze held an attentive curiosity, as if eager to hear the story behind this unexpected meeting.
When Oliver paused, Reuben nodded thoughtfully, his eyes still lingering on the serene waters. “I couldn’t agree more,” Reuben replied. “This is my first time stumbling upon this spot. It’s only about an hour’s hike from where I live, so I should really come out here more often.” His voice carried a note of quiet appreciation, as if he were sharing a secret.
As Oliver turned to him, slipping a towel off his shoulders, Reuben felt a momentary pang of self-consciousness for not having introduced himself sooner. He was usually more direct, but something about the encounter felt unhurried, almost as if this moment wasn’t meant to be rushed.
Reuben extended a hand with a bright smile. “Reuben Rothmore. But everyone calls me Reu,” he introduced, his tone warm and genuine. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Oliver.”
There was a brief, comfortable silence before Reuben’s curiosity got the better of him. “So, Oliver,” he began, tilting his head slightly, “what brings you to the lake today?” His question was casual, but his gaze held an attentive curiosity, as if eager to hear the story behind this unexpected meeting.
Oh, so he was a hiker. Oliver relaxed. He enjoyed hiking, too, espescially during nice weather like this. It was good to feel the fresh air in his lungs and a breeze through his hair. ... He had to stop himself before he got too poetic.
"Feel free, the lake could use more visitors!" He replied, shaking Reuben's hand as it was offered. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Reu. I don't often see many people around here, aside from family, so I apologize if I looked a little surprised!"
Then, he paused, Reu's question catching him slightly off guard. He wondered if it was alright to be honest, after all, he'd just met the man. There wasn't really any room to be open, right? He looked out toward the water and sighed.
"Ah, well, I was swimming not too long ago." He said. "But only because I needed to get some air, you know? ... It's bee a rough summer for me, and a bit of stressful year so far. Nothing too dramatic, but just enough to need to get away for a while."
"Feel free, the lake could use more visitors!" He replied, shaking Reuben's hand as it was offered. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Reu. I don't often see many people around here, aside from family, so I apologize if I looked a little surprised!"
Then, he paused, Reu's question catching him slightly off guard. He wondered if it was alright to be honest, after all, he'd just met the man. There wasn't really any room to be open, right? He looked out toward the water and sighed.
"Ah, well, I was swimming not too long ago." He said. "But only because I needed to get some air, you know? ... It's bee a rough summer for me, and a bit of stressful year so far. Nothing too dramatic, but just enough to need to get away for a while."
Reuben smiled warmly as their hands met in a firm handshake. "No worries at all," he replied, his voice gentle. “Honestly, I’m surprised it’s this quiet here too. Feels like the world doesn’t know this place exists,” he added, glancing back at the still waters, the serenity of the lake amplifying the peaceful silence between them.
When Oliver sighed, Reuben’s smile faded into a look of quiet concern. He could sense the weight behind the man's sigh and instinctively turned his attention towards him. Oliver seemed lost in thought, his gaze fixed on the lake, the reflection of sunlight dancing across his features.
As Oliver began to open up, explaining what brought him to the lake, Reuben listened intently, nodding with empathy. “A swim does sound perfect in this weather,” Reuben responded with a small chuckle, trying to lighten the mood a bit. “And fresh air has a way of easing the mind, doesn’t it?” He paused, the corners of his lips lifting into a gentle half-smile. “I’m really sorry to hear you’ve had such a tough year, but hang in there. I believe things have a way of turning around, given a bit of time.”
Reuben set his bag down and lowered himself to sit by the water’s edge. For a moment, he just took in the view, the tranquility of the scene inviting a sense of ease. “It really is breathtaking,” he murmured, his voice carrying a note of admiration. “Coming here to escape everything…I can see why you’d choose this spot,” he added, glancing up at Oliver with a kind smile.
Reaching into his pack, Reuben pulled out a small bag of snacks and fished around for something to offer. He took out a few protein bars and lifted a chocolate-flavored one towards Oliver. “Here, I’ve got chocolate and peanut butter,” he offered with a grin. “I’ve also got some raisin ones, but most people prefer chocolate. Take it if you’re hungry — it’s yours if you want.” Reuben’s gesture was casual but sincere, a small way of offering comfort and a shared moment in the midst of an unexpectedly meaningful encounter.
When Oliver sighed, Reuben’s smile faded into a look of quiet concern. He could sense the weight behind the man's sigh and instinctively turned his attention towards him. Oliver seemed lost in thought, his gaze fixed on the lake, the reflection of sunlight dancing across his features.
As Oliver began to open up, explaining what brought him to the lake, Reuben listened intently, nodding with empathy. “A swim does sound perfect in this weather,” Reuben responded with a small chuckle, trying to lighten the mood a bit. “And fresh air has a way of easing the mind, doesn’t it?” He paused, the corners of his lips lifting into a gentle half-smile. “I’m really sorry to hear you’ve had such a tough year, but hang in there. I believe things have a way of turning around, given a bit of time.”
Reuben set his bag down and lowered himself to sit by the water’s edge. For a moment, he just took in the view, the tranquility of the scene inviting a sense of ease. “It really is breathtaking,” he murmured, his voice carrying a note of admiration. “Coming here to escape everything…I can see why you’d choose this spot,” he added, glancing up at Oliver with a kind smile.
Reaching into his pack, Reuben pulled out a small bag of snacks and fished around for something to offer. He took out a few protein bars and lifted a chocolate-flavored one towards Oliver. “Here, I’ve got chocolate and peanut butter,” he offered with a grin. “I’ve also got some raisin ones, but most people prefer chocolate. Take it if you’re hungry — it’s yours if you want.” Reuben’s gesture was casual but sincere, a small way of offering comfort and a shared moment in the midst of an unexpectedly meaningful encounter.
Oliver let Reuben's words roll over him slowly. It had been a while since he'd had someone reassure him like this. If that wasn't some kind of hint to the amount of isolation he'd been enduring, he didn't know what was.
"I hope so." He said, taking a breath in. "And it is, it really is. Kind of like a slice of what heaven must be like, huh?"
He let out a chuckle of his own, before his eyes widened at the sight of the candy bar.
"Ah, oh, thank you!" He exclaimed, taking the bar and immediately turning toward the bag he'd brought with him from the house. "I think I've still got a bottle of iced tea here somewhere. Would you like some? You've got to be thirsty after coming all this way."
"I hope so." He said, taking a breath in. "And it is, it really is. Kind of like a slice of what heaven must be like, huh?"
He let out a chuckle of his own, before his eyes widened at the sight of the candy bar.
"Ah, oh, thank you!" He exclaimed, taking the bar and immediately turning toward the bag he'd brought with him from the house. "I think I've still got a bottle of iced tea here somewhere. Would you like some? You've got to be thirsty after coming all this way."
As Reuben handed off the protein bar, it wasn’t long before he heard the word that made his eyes light up: tea. The mere mention of iced tea was enough to make him grin wider, feeling a tinge of anticipation. Tea had a way of soothing his soul, an anchor in moments of stress or joy. He found himself already liking Oliver more than he expected.
“I would absolutely love some tea, thank you,” Reuben chuckled, unwrapping his protein bar with practiced ease. “I have to say, tea is my absolute favorite drink — hot, cold, herbal, all of it. And on a day like this, iced tea sounds like heaven.” He savored that familiar anticipation, feeling a bit more at ease in Oliver’s company.
Taking a small bite of his raisin bar, Reuben wrapped his free arm around his legs, pulling them close as he gazed out over the water. The scene felt almost too perfect — serene and still, with the sunlight glinting off the lake’s surface. As he chewed thoughtfully, he turned his head slightly towards Oliver.
“I hope you don’t mind,” Reuben began, his tone casual, almost apologetic. “But once I’m done with this, I was planning to do a bit of meditating and reading. Do you meditate at all?” He figured it was better to ask than to just jump into a meditative state and look odd to a stranger. And though he didn’t usually mind what others thought, this time he cared — maybe because Oliver struck him as someone worth making a decent impression on. There was something about him that piqued Reuben’s curiosity, making him care about the subtler details in a way he hadn’t expected.
Oliver seemed worn and perhaps weighed down by his own thoughts, but to Reuben, he was more than just that — handsome in a rugged, quiet way. Reuben couldn’t deny his attraction, though he was more curious about who Oliver was beyond the exterior. He found himself wanting to understand the person behind those thoughtful eyes.
“I would absolutely love some tea, thank you,” Reuben chuckled, unwrapping his protein bar with practiced ease. “I have to say, tea is my absolute favorite drink — hot, cold, herbal, all of it. And on a day like this, iced tea sounds like heaven.” He savored that familiar anticipation, feeling a bit more at ease in Oliver’s company.
Taking a small bite of his raisin bar, Reuben wrapped his free arm around his legs, pulling them close as he gazed out over the water. The scene felt almost too perfect — serene and still, with the sunlight glinting off the lake’s surface. As he chewed thoughtfully, he turned his head slightly towards Oliver.
“I hope you don’t mind,” Reuben began, his tone casual, almost apologetic. “But once I’m done with this, I was planning to do a bit of meditating and reading. Do you meditate at all?” He figured it was better to ask than to just jump into a meditative state and look odd to a stranger. And though he didn’t usually mind what others thought, this time he cared — maybe because Oliver struck him as someone worth making a decent impression on. There was something about him that piqued Reuben’s curiosity, making him care about the subtler details in a way he hadn’t expected.
Oliver seemed worn and perhaps weighed down by his own thoughts, but to Reuben, he was more than just that — handsome in a rugged, quiet way. Reuben couldn’t deny his attraction, though he was more curious about who Oliver was beyond the exterior. He found himself wanting to understand the person behind those thoughtful eyes.
Oliver left the bar against his leg for the time being while he fussed with the thermos of tea. It wasn't anything too fancy, just some tea he'd brewed at home and chilled, but he liked to think that the simplicity of it was what made it nice. Once the lid was pried off, he reached for a spare plastic cup from his bag and poured some in, before offering it to Reuben.
"Here you are, it's just something I brewed at home, nothing fancy." He said with a smile.
He reached for the bar then and opened it carefully. Admittedly, he wasn't terribly fond of protein bars, but something chocolaty would probably do him good. He took a nibble or two, just to test it, and looked out toward the water. However, an old part of him couldn't keep his mind from circling back to the fact that he was sitting next to a rather handsome stranger. He shimmied himself into a straighter position and took a breath.
"Meditate? No, I can't say I ever have." He mused, pursing his lips. "However, I've heard it has a lot of benefits... I'd be open to trying it, if I had someone there to guide me, that is."
"Here you are, it's just something I brewed at home, nothing fancy." He said with a smile.
He reached for the bar then and opened it carefully. Admittedly, he wasn't terribly fond of protein bars, but something chocolaty would probably do him good. He took a nibble or two, just to test it, and looked out toward the water. However, an old part of him couldn't keep his mind from circling back to the fact that he was sitting next to a rather handsome stranger. He shimmied himself into a straighter position and took a breath.
"Meditate? No, I can't say I ever have." He mused, pursing his lips. "However, I've heard it has a lot of benefits... I'd be open to trying it, if I had someone there to guide me, that is."
Reuben accepted the offered tea with a grateful nod. "Thank you," he said, taking a careful sip. It wasn’t anything fancy, but to Reuben, it was perfect. He closed his eyes briefly, letting the warmth of the drink settle over him. “You know, you say it’s not fancy, but that’s part of what makes it so great. Tea is wonderful in almost any form,” he remarked with a contented smile, taking another sip and savoring the moment.
When the topic shifted to meditation, Reuben could sense Oliver’s curiosity. He was accustomed to meeting people who hadn’t given meditation a try, but seeing openness to it always brought him joy. His smile widened, turning into a full, encouraging grin.
“Awesome! Let’s give it a shot,” Reuben began, shifting slightly to demonstrate. “First things first — get really comfortable. Any position that feels natural to you. A lot of people think you have to sit with your back straight and legs crossed, but that’s not the case at all. The key is comfort,” he explained, extending his legs out in front of him and resting his hands loosely in his lap.
“Once you’re comfortable, just close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Deep breaths in…and out. Let your whole focus be on that rhythm,” he continued, his voice lowering to a soft, calming tone. He demonstrated the breathing technique, his chest rising and falling steadily. With his eyes still closed, he continued speaking, guiding Oliver through the steps.
“I once heard a great analogy,” Reuben said, a note of fondness in his voice as he shared it. “Your mind is like the sky, and your thoughts are like clouds. You can choose to acknowledge those thoughts and ride a cloud, or you can just watch them pass by. When you meditate, you’re letting those clouds drift without latching onto them. If a thought pops up, don’t worry about it. Just let it go and keep focusing on your breathing.” He paused to take another deep breath, modeling the technique.
“It’s not about forcing your mind to be blank, but allowing yourself to simply observe without engaging,” he concluded. “That was the best advice I got when I first started, and it’s helped me ever since.”
Reuben fell silent, resuming his breathing with an air of ease, inviting Oliver to join him in this shared moment of stillness. The lake, the tea, and the company — it all seemed to fit together perfectly, like pieces of a gentle, quiet puzzle.
When the topic shifted to meditation, Reuben could sense Oliver’s curiosity. He was accustomed to meeting people who hadn’t given meditation a try, but seeing openness to it always brought him joy. His smile widened, turning into a full, encouraging grin.
“Awesome! Let’s give it a shot,” Reuben began, shifting slightly to demonstrate. “First things first — get really comfortable. Any position that feels natural to you. A lot of people think you have to sit with your back straight and legs crossed, but that’s not the case at all. The key is comfort,” he explained, extending his legs out in front of him and resting his hands loosely in his lap.
“Once you’re comfortable, just close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Deep breaths in…and out. Let your whole focus be on that rhythm,” he continued, his voice lowering to a soft, calming tone. He demonstrated the breathing technique, his chest rising and falling steadily. With his eyes still closed, he continued speaking, guiding Oliver through the steps.
“I once heard a great analogy,” Reuben said, a note of fondness in his voice as he shared it. “Your mind is like the sky, and your thoughts are like clouds. You can choose to acknowledge those thoughts and ride a cloud, or you can just watch them pass by. When you meditate, you’re letting those clouds drift without latching onto them. If a thought pops up, don’t worry about it. Just let it go and keep focusing on your breathing.” He paused to take another deep breath, modeling the technique.
“It’s not about forcing your mind to be blank, but allowing yourself to simply observe without engaging,” he concluded. “That was the best advice I got when I first started, and it’s helped me ever since.”
Reuben fell silent, resuming his breathing with an air of ease, inviting Oliver to join him in this shared moment of stillness. The lake, the tea, and the company — it all seemed to fit together perfectly, like pieces of a gentle, quiet puzzle.
Oliver watched Reuben get into position and, albeit awkwardly, wiggled into a more comfortable posture of his own. He shifted to face the other man, his legs in a loose pretzel style with his arms lightly draped toward his knees, and watched Reuben breathe. The idea of emptying your mind sounded a little impossible for him to accomplish, but he had to give it a good try first, right? He rolled his shoulders, closed his eyes, and tried to follow what Reuben was saying.
Your mind is like the sky, the clouds are your thoughts.
He winced. That analogy only brought thoughts of the recurring nightmare he'd been having with it. Immediately, he began to envision a pink sunset, a storm in the distance, and everything he'd been trying to avoid for days now. He took a deep breath, his shoulders tensing, and tried to let the thoughts pass by. However, as though they were concrete and glue, the clouds refused to move along the horizon and hung there, taunting him and weighing him town. To this, he opened his eyes and heaved a sigh.
"I... I can't quite get comfortable...?" He muttered, his voice not quite indicative of a question or a statement. "Or maybe I'm thinking too much? I'm not sure."
Your mind is like the sky, the clouds are your thoughts.
He winced. That analogy only brought thoughts of the recurring nightmare he'd been having with it. Immediately, he began to envision a pink sunset, a storm in the distance, and everything he'd been trying to avoid for days now. He took a deep breath, his shoulders tensing, and tried to let the thoughts pass by. However, as though they were concrete and glue, the clouds refused to move along the horizon and hung there, taunting him and weighing him town. To this, he opened his eyes and heaved a sigh.
"I... I can't quite get comfortable...?" He muttered, his voice not quite indicative of a question or a statement. "Or maybe I'm thinking too much? I'm not sure."
When Oliver began to speak, Reuben shifted his focus entirely to him, noticing the slight tension in his posture. It wasn’t that Oliver looked uncomfortable, but Reuben could tell he wasn’t quite at ease either. Rather than let it slide, Reuben decided to offer a gentle nudge.
“Hey, try lying down,” he suggested, his voice relaxed and light. “Sometimes we think we’re comfortable, but there’s always a bit more we can do to really settle in.” He grinned, adding with a soft chuckle, “Just try not to drift off to sleep.”
To reinforce his point, Reuben eased himself down, lying flat on his back beside Oliver to demonstrate that there wasn’t a rigid rule for meditation positions. It was all about finding a way to let go and feel at peace. Maybe seeing him let his guard down would help Oliver do the same. Reuben hoped so — it was all part of making sure Oliver got the most out of the moment.
“Hey, try lying down,” he suggested, his voice relaxed and light. “Sometimes we think we’re comfortable, but there’s always a bit more we can do to really settle in.” He grinned, adding with a soft chuckle, “Just try not to drift off to sleep.”
To reinforce his point, Reuben eased himself down, lying flat on his back beside Oliver to demonstrate that there wasn’t a rigid rule for meditation positions. It was all about finding a way to let go and feel at peace. Maybe seeing him let his guard down would help Oliver do the same. Reuben hoped so — it was all part of making sure Oliver got the most out of the moment.
Oliver couldn't help but blush as he was told to lay down, but didn't want to fuss about it. He slid down and laid his head against the end of the tree, before turning to look at Reuben. ... Okay, this was... Awkward, but he couldn't give up. He closed his eyes and breathed.
This time, he felt himself relaxing a little easier, but clearing his mind didn't seem to be happening. The clouds still hung around him, some dangling on invisible hinges and swinging slowly back and forth. He scrunched his face. Ignoring them didn't seem to be working to his favor, but acknowledging them made him feel worse. It was beginning to frustrate him.
"... Maybe I'm too stressed out to do this." He said, keeping his eyes closed. "Everything I'm visualizing doesn't feel right. It's making me a bit nervous, to be honest."
This time, he felt himself relaxing a little easier, but clearing his mind didn't seem to be happening. The clouds still hung around him, some dangling on invisible hinges and swinging slowly back and forth. He scrunched his face. Ignoring them didn't seem to be working to his favor, but acknowledging them made him feel worse. It was beginning to frustrate him.
"... Maybe I'm too stressed out to do this." He said, keeping his eyes closed. "Everything I'm visualizing doesn't feel right. It's making me a bit nervous, to be honest."
Reuben's eyes fluttered open, a small, understanding smile spreading across his face. He knew that finding clarity in meditation could be challenging, especially for someone new to it. Even after years of practice, his own mind sometimes wandered like clouds in the sky. He sat up, glancing over at Oliver with a gentle expression.
“Hey, don’t sweat it,” Reuben said reassuringly, his voice calm and steady. “It’s tough at first. Clearing your mind completely is a lot harder than it sounds.”
For a moment, Reuben’s gaze drifted to the lake, watching the water shimmer in the midday sun. He considered whether or not to probe further. People sometimes just needed space to breathe, but there were times when they needed a nudge, someone willing to listen. The sunlight glinted off the water, making him squint slightly as he weighed his thoughts.
Taking a deep breath, Reuben decided to take a chance. “If you don’t mind me asking,” he began, his tone careful and open, “what’s got you so stressed out?” He looked over at Oliver, his expression inviting yet unobtrusive, making it clear that there was no pressure to respond if he wasn’t ready.
Reuben’s question was offered with sincerity, the kind that comes from genuinely wanting to understand another person’s story. Worst case, Oliver would decline to open up — but Reuben hoped he might find it comforting to have someone to confide in, even if just for a little while.
“Hey, don’t sweat it,” Reuben said reassuringly, his voice calm and steady. “It’s tough at first. Clearing your mind completely is a lot harder than it sounds.”
For a moment, Reuben’s gaze drifted to the lake, watching the water shimmer in the midday sun. He considered whether or not to probe further. People sometimes just needed space to breathe, but there were times when they needed a nudge, someone willing to listen. The sunlight glinted off the water, making him squint slightly as he weighed his thoughts.
Taking a deep breath, Reuben decided to take a chance. “If you don’t mind me asking,” he began, his tone careful and open, “what’s got you so stressed out?” He looked over at Oliver, his expression inviting yet unobtrusive, making it clear that there was no pressure to respond if he wasn’t ready.
Reuben’s question was offered with sincerity, the kind that comes from genuinely wanting to understand another person’s story. Worst case, Oliver would decline to open up — but Reuben hoped he might find it comforting to have someone to confide in, even if just for a little while.
Oliver sat up and leaned forward slightly, his hand coming to rest under his chin. The question from Reuben was unexpectedly welcome, but he still had a good reason to hesitate. He wasn't sure if he would be able to be concise with what was bothering him, or really talk about it much at all. His lips flexed in thought.
"To be honest with you," He began, shifting to face Reuben again. "A lot of what is bothering me happened sixteen some odd years ago. It's only now resurfacing to haunt me."
The blond leaned back and looked to the side with a sigh.
"... Have you, erm... Ever been through a really bad break up?" He asked, tensely.
"To be honest with you," He began, shifting to face Reuben again. "A lot of what is bothering me happened sixteen some odd years ago. It's only now resurfacing to haunt me."
The blond leaned back and looked to the side with a sigh.
"... Have you, erm... Ever been through a really bad break up?" He asked, tensely.
Reuben watched as Oliver’s expression tightened, clearly grappling with something heavy. He could almost see the gears turning in the man’s head, and when Oliver finally spoke, the words hit close to home. Breakups had a way of stirring up old wounds, and Reuben couldn’t help but think of Clark — the lingering pain, the confusion, the unanswered questions that still haunted him.
Reuben let out a small, understanding chuckle as he gathered his thoughts, wanting to create a space for Oliver to feel safe sharing. “Yeah…breakups are rough,” he began, his tone empathetic. “I think most of us have been through it at some point. My last relationship ended not too long ago, actually, and it was probably the hardest one I’ve ever had to deal with.”
He glanced back at the lake, the steady rhythm of the water bringing him some sense of calm as he continued. “It wasn’t a long relationship, but it felt real. I really thought I loved him. Things were up and down — like, he treated me amazingly at times, but then, at other times, it felt like I wasn’t enough. It came in waves, y’know? And then he ended things and completely cut me off.”
Reuben’s voice softened, carrying a quiet honesty. “It still stings, even now. But I’m trying to use this time to work on myself and focus on the things that bring me peace.”
He let his words hang in the air for a moment, not wanting to rush Oliver. He hoped that sharing his own experience might make it easier for Oliver to open up, knowing he wasn’t alone. “Is that what’s going on for you?” Reuben pressed gently. “Did she reach out and stir up old feelings?” His question was careful, meant more to offer an opening than to pry too deeply.
Reuben let out a small, understanding chuckle as he gathered his thoughts, wanting to create a space for Oliver to feel safe sharing. “Yeah…breakups are rough,” he began, his tone empathetic. “I think most of us have been through it at some point. My last relationship ended not too long ago, actually, and it was probably the hardest one I’ve ever had to deal with.”
He glanced back at the lake, the steady rhythm of the water bringing him some sense of calm as he continued. “It wasn’t a long relationship, but it felt real. I really thought I loved him. Things were up and down — like, he treated me amazingly at times, but then, at other times, it felt like I wasn’t enough. It came in waves, y’know? And then he ended things and completely cut me off.”
Reuben’s voice softened, carrying a quiet honesty. “It still stings, even now. But I’m trying to use this time to work on myself and focus on the things that bring me peace.”
He let his words hang in the air for a moment, not wanting to rush Oliver. He hoped that sharing his own experience might make it easier for Oliver to open up, knowing he wasn’t alone. “Is that what’s going on for you?” Reuben pressed gently. “Did she reach out and stir up old feelings?” His question was careful, meant more to offer an opening than to pry too deeply.
Oliver placed a hand over his chest as Reuben spoke. Oh, now he felt foolish. This poor guy had a recent break up and here he was, nearly forty years old, still hurting over a break up that happened ages ago. He fought against a pout at himself and nodded sympathetically to the rest of Reuben's story.
However, when Reuben moved the topic back to his issues, the blond couldn't help but let out a howl of laughter.
"Oh, God, I'm so sorry, ah!" He stammered, wiping his eye. "I just... Neither of them were women! I was in a relationship with two men, if you can believe that, I mean... Polyamory isn't really well understood."
He took a breath and shook his head before letting himself continue.
"And it wasn't anything on their part, actually." He explained, his lips pursing. "I found an old picture frame from back then. Just the three of us, together, like how it used to be... I kinda let myself fall into a pit of nostalgia and went through all of my old college things. It's made me pretty depressed, even if it's been close to fifteen years. I guess I never quite got over it."
However, when Reuben moved the topic back to his issues, the blond couldn't help but let out a howl of laughter.
"Oh, God, I'm so sorry, ah!" He stammered, wiping his eye. "I just... Neither of them were women! I was in a relationship with two men, if you can believe that, I mean... Polyamory isn't really well understood."
He took a breath and shook his head before letting himself continue.
"And it wasn't anything on their part, actually." He explained, his lips pursing. "I found an old picture frame from back then. Just the three of us, together, like how it used to be... I kinda let myself fall into a pit of nostalgia and went through all of my old college things. It's made me pretty depressed, even if it's been close to fifteen years. I guess I never quite got over it."
When Oliver laughed, Reuben was momentarily taken aback, unsure how to react. A smirk crept across his face, not out of amusement, but as a reflex to the sudden shift in the conversation’s tone. However, as Oliver explained, things started to click, and Reuben’s initial surprise began to ease. His upbringing had taught him to assume everyone was straight until proven otherwise, a habit he’d formed from living with strict parents who held conventional views. It wasn’t out of insensitivity; it was a learned caution.
As Oliver opened up about his past, Reuben’s expression shifted from curiosity to genuine surprise, especially as the topic of polyamory came up. It wasn’t something he’d anticipated, but he remained open and nonjudgmental. By the time Oliver finished, Reuben’s face had softened into a look of empathy.
“Nostalgia can be a real bitch,” Reuben said with a sigh, his voice carrying both understanding and sympathy. “I’m sorry you’re feeling weighed down by those old memories. Needing time away makes sense — sometimes a little distance is the only way to breathe again.” He patted Oliver’s back lightly, offering a small gesture of comfort as he considered his next words.
Reuben took a moment, then continued, “Y’know, sometimes a fresh start can really help. Finding something, or someone, new to focus on might sound like a cliché, but it’s worked for me in the past. It’s not about erasing the past, but about finding new things that bring you joy.”
He paused, then added with a hint of caution, “Or, if you’re feeling bold, you could try to reach out to your old partners and get that closure — if you haven’t already. It’s a risk, though. There’s no guarantee it’ll go the way you hope, and it can be tough reopening those old wounds.”
Reuben folded his hands around his knees, gazing at the rippling water as he spoke. “But sometimes, closure is the only way to move on. It’s a hard thing to go after, but it can be worth it if you’re ready for it.” His words hung in the air, not as advice but as possibilities, leaving the choice open to Oliver and whatever he felt was best for himself.
As Oliver opened up about his past, Reuben’s expression shifted from curiosity to genuine surprise, especially as the topic of polyamory came up. It wasn’t something he’d anticipated, but he remained open and nonjudgmental. By the time Oliver finished, Reuben’s face had softened into a look of empathy.
“Nostalgia can be a real bitch,” Reuben said with a sigh, his voice carrying both understanding and sympathy. “I’m sorry you’re feeling weighed down by those old memories. Needing time away makes sense — sometimes a little distance is the only way to breathe again.” He patted Oliver’s back lightly, offering a small gesture of comfort as he considered his next words.
Reuben took a moment, then continued, “Y’know, sometimes a fresh start can really help. Finding something, or someone, new to focus on might sound like a cliché, but it’s worked for me in the past. It’s not about erasing the past, but about finding new things that bring you joy.”
He paused, then added with a hint of caution, “Or, if you’re feeling bold, you could try to reach out to your old partners and get that closure — if you haven’t already. It’s a risk, though. There’s no guarantee it’ll go the way you hope, and it can be tough reopening those old wounds.”
Reuben folded his hands around his knees, gazing at the rippling water as he spoke. “But sometimes, closure is the only way to move on. It’s a hard thing to go after, but it can be worth it if you’re ready for it.” His words hung in the air, not as advice but as possibilities, leaving the choice open to Oliver and whatever he felt was best for himself.
Oliver paled at the thought of looking for his old lovers again. As much as it would be interesting to see how they had grown since then, he knew he wouldn't be able to relax enough to produce any sort of meaningful small talk. Hell, would they even recognize him now, after so much time apart? Would he even recognize them? His expression tensed at the thought. No, he wasn't ready for that. That kind of awkward situation didn't appeal to him at all.
"The idea of running into them at this point makes me feel quite nervous." He said, clenching and unclenching his fist. "I don't think that would be the best idea, even if it brought me closure. ... I'll think about it, though."
He shifted and placed a hand on his knee cap, before snapping his finger.
"Oh, you know? I do have something to look forward to, but it's also something that stresses me out a bit" He continued, shaking his head. "Have you ever heard of Lab 305?"
Honestly, bringing this up in his head sounded a lot better than saying it out loud. What if Reuben didn't know what Lab 305 was? Oliver wasn't entirely sure he was qualified to explain everything in detail, or really at all. He'd do his best of course, but that didn't exactly ease his nerves.
"The idea of running into them at this point makes me feel quite nervous." He said, clenching and unclenching his fist. "I don't think that would be the best idea, even if it brought me closure. ... I'll think about it, though."
He shifted and placed a hand on his knee cap, before snapping his finger.
"Oh, you know? I do have something to look forward to, but it's also something that stresses me out a bit" He continued, shaking his head. "Have you ever heard of Lab 305?"
Honestly, bringing this up in his head sounded a lot better than saying it out loud. What if Reuben didn't know what Lab 305 was? Oliver wasn't entirely sure he was qualified to explain everything in detail, or really at all. He'd do his best of course, but that didn't exactly ease his nerves.
Reuben nodded thoughtfully, sensing Oliver’s unease as he spoke about the men who stirred up his nerves. “Everyone has their own way of handling things, and it can take a while to figure out what works best for you. But when that moment comes, you’ll know,” Reuben said reassuringly. “Maybe what you need right now is just more time to focus on yourself—do the things that make you happy.”
He smiled warmly and looked back out at the lake, the sunlight playing off the surface. “Doing something nice for yourself is the best medicine,” he added, letting the tranquility of the moment underscore his words.
When Oliver mentioned Lab 305, Reuben tilted his head slightly, the name ringing a distant bell. It felt vaguely familiar, like something he might have seen in passing. “Lab 305…sounds a bit familiar,” he mused. “Is that what you’re looking forward to? A new job or something exciting happening there?” he asked, curious to know more about this place and what it meant to Oliver.
He smiled warmly and looked back out at the lake, the sunlight playing off the surface. “Doing something nice for yourself is the best medicine,” he added, letting the tranquility of the moment underscore his words.
When Oliver mentioned Lab 305, Reuben tilted his head slightly, the name ringing a distant bell. It felt vaguely familiar, like something he might have seen in passing. “Lab 305…sounds a bit familiar,” he mused. “Is that what you’re looking forward to? A new job or something exciting happening there?” he asked, curious to know more about this place and what it meant to Oliver.
Okay, now he could mentally kick himself. It was a bit of a relief that Reuben had heard of Lab before, but having to explain exactly what it was wasn't something Oliver felt confident doing. How did you go about saying that you were adopting someone who wasn't completely human? Or, more to the point, someone who would be floating around without a complete body? His brows furrowed. ... Maybe he didn't have to explain everything in detail? He clasped his hands, rolled his shoulders, and resolved to wing it.
"No, not a job, I already have my hands full as a college professor." He laughed, shaking his head. "Lab 305 is, uh... Where I'm adopting my future child from. I'm waiting for them to be born, actually. It's been a few months without any word, but I'm still excited."
His expression twisted a little, knowing full well that this explanation was pretty damn terrible and not anywhere near as correct as it should be. There had to be some way to convey that he wasn't adopting a child without it sounding like he wasn't doing something crazy.
"The exact being I'm adopting is called a Raevan and they take quite a lot of time to form." He continued, still somewhat grasping for the words. "They start life floating around without a stomach, then they grow a stomach, and finally gain legs once they've matured enough... They're not exactly easy to explain, or really, typical. ... I think I still have a pamphlet in my wallet if you'd like to know more. They're always interested in guardian applications."
"No, not a job, I already have my hands full as a college professor." He laughed, shaking his head. "Lab 305 is, uh... Where I'm adopting my future child from. I'm waiting for them to be born, actually. It's been a few months without any word, but I'm still excited."
His expression twisted a little, knowing full well that this explanation was pretty damn terrible and not anywhere near as correct as it should be. There had to be some way to convey that he wasn't adopting a child without it sounding like he wasn't doing something crazy.
"The exact being I'm adopting is called a Raevan and they take quite a lot of time to form." He continued, still somewhat grasping for the words. "They start life floating around without a stomach, then they grow a stomach, and finally gain legs once they've matured enough... They're not exactly easy to explain, or really, typical. ... I think I still have a pamphlet in my wallet if you'd like to know more. They're always interested in guardian applications."
Reuben furrowed his brow for a moment, processing what Oliver had just said. The idea of adopting a child that wasn’t entirely human was unexpected, even for a world as diverse and magical as Earth. But the more Oliver explained, the more intrigued Reuben became.
“So…you’re adopting a raevan?” Reuben repeated, his voice filled with wonder. “That’s…really incredible. I had no idea creatures like that existed. I’d love to see the pamphlet if you’ve got it with you.” His curiosity was genuine — part of him was fascinated by the possibility of meeting such beings.
He thought for a moment about the commitment and responsibilities that came with becoming a guardian, and despite the initial surprise, he smiled warmly. “So, you’re going to be a father then, huh? That’s a big step — congratulations!” His smile turned up into a somewhat confused, but earnest expression of encouragement. “And being a professor on top of that…You must stay busy with your students and all the planning. What subject do you teach?” he asked, eager to learn more about Oliver’s life.
“So…you’re adopting a raevan?” Reuben repeated, his voice filled with wonder. “That’s…really incredible. I had no idea creatures like that existed. I’d love to see the pamphlet if you’ve got it with you.” His curiosity was genuine — part of him was fascinated by the possibility of meeting such beings.
He thought for a moment about the commitment and responsibilities that came with becoming a guardian, and despite the initial surprise, he smiled warmly. “So, you’re going to be a father then, huh? That’s a big step — congratulations!” His smile turned up into a somewhat confused, but earnest expression of encouragement. “And being a professor on top of that…You must stay busy with your students and all the planning. What subject do you teach?” he asked, eager to learn more about Oliver’s life.
Well, at least the reaction wasn't something along the lines of being called weird. Oliver sighed in relief and quickly took his wallet out of his bag and handed Reuben the pamphlet he had folded inside. He didn't really know why he kept that thing for so long, but he supposed it came in handy, at least in this instance. The more guardians at Lab the merrier, right?
"Yes, I'm very excited, but nervous as well." He laughed, rubbing the back of his head. Oh, I teach English at a Community College! I teach all levels of study, but the hardest kids to teach are the youngest. It just seems to be that they're getting younger and younger as the years go by. Sometimes, they're barely mature enough to handle some of the reading material I use. It's still rewarding, though."
He paused, thinking on just how little time he had left before he needed to go back to work, and sighed.
"And what about you? What do you do for a living?" He asked.
"Yes, I'm very excited, but nervous as well." He laughed, rubbing the back of his head. Oh, I teach English at a Community College! I teach all levels of study, but the hardest kids to teach are the youngest. It just seems to be that they're getting younger and younger as the years go by. Sometimes, they're barely mature enough to handle some of the reading material I use. It's still rewarding, though."
He paused, thinking on just how little time he had left before he needed to go back to work, and sighed.
"And what about you? What do you do for a living?" He asked.
Reuben’s face lit up as he skimmed the pamphlet. “Mind if I keep this one?” he asked, flipping it over to inspect the back. The idea of these Raevan creatures had clearly captured his interest, and while he didn’t fully commit to the idea, he could feel his curiosity pulling him toward exploring it more seriously in the future.
When Oliver mentioned being an English teacher, Reuben’s respect for him grew. Teaching wasn’t an easy path, and it required dedication and patience — two qualities he admired. “An English teacher, huh? That’s impressive,” Reuben said genuinely. “I didn’t last long in college myself, dropped out to pursue other things, but I’ve always respected how essential education is. You must have a lot of patience to work with students every day.”
He laughed softly at his own self-consciousness as he continued. “You’re probably going to laugh when you hear what I do,” Reuben admitted, taking a deep breath. “I’m an herbalist. I spend my time finding plants, creating different home remedies, and selling them to clients for all sorts of ailments. And on the side, I’m a freelance tarot reader. I know, two very different things, but they balance each other out in a way that feels right for me.”
Reuben rubbed the back of his head, closing his eyes briefly as he chuckled. He always felt a bit awkward when talking about his work to people with more traditional jobs. “It’s not exactly your everyday career path, but it’s what I’m passionate about,” he finished, giving Oliver a sheepish grin.
When Oliver mentioned being an English teacher, Reuben’s respect for him grew. Teaching wasn’t an easy path, and it required dedication and patience — two qualities he admired. “An English teacher, huh? That’s impressive,” Reuben said genuinely. “I didn’t last long in college myself, dropped out to pursue other things, but I’ve always respected how essential education is. You must have a lot of patience to work with students every day.”
He laughed softly at his own self-consciousness as he continued. “You’re probably going to laugh when you hear what I do,” Reuben admitted, taking a deep breath. “I’m an herbalist. I spend my time finding plants, creating different home remedies, and selling them to clients for all sorts of ailments. And on the side, I’m a freelance tarot reader. I know, two very different things, but they balance each other out in a way that feels right for me.”
Reuben rubbed the back of his head, closing his eyes briefly as he chuckled. He always felt a bit awkward when talking about his work to people with more traditional jobs. “It’s not exactly your everyday career path, but it’s what I’m passionate about,” he finished, giving Oliver a sheepish grin.
"Oh no, not at all!" Oliver said, nodding. It made him happy that Reuben seemed interested. After all, Lab was a wonderful community, the more people in it the better!
"Ahhh, I've been a teacher for about ten years now." He replied, squinting at himself. Was it really ten years? It felt like much longer. He didn't really feel like his two years as a teacher's assistant really counted. So, yeah, it was about ten years as a teacher on his own.
He listened to Reuben explain what he did for a living and could do nothing but smile. Being an herbalist was nothing to laugh at! You had to have knowledge of all these plants and how they work together, especially if you were using them for medicinal purposes. It was a tough job just like any other.
"Being an herbalist isn't anything to laugh at, I think it's a wonderful job!" He exclaimed. "My sister, though she isn't an herbalist, uses various plants in her aromatherapy and massage shop. I have a lot of respect for people who do that sort of work. It takes a lot of time, patience, and social skill."
However, the word tarotist wasn't something he was terribly familiar with. He'd heard of the word tarot before and knew about the cards, but had never ventured to try it out. Still, that didn't mean he wasn't curious about it.
"What does being a tarotist entail?" He asked, clasping his hands in front of him. "I've heard of tarot cards before, but I've never heard of that word being used to refer to someone who makes a living from reading them."
"Ahhh, I've been a teacher for about ten years now." He replied, squinting at himself. Was it really ten years? It felt like much longer. He didn't really feel like his two years as a teacher's assistant really counted. So, yeah, it was about ten years as a teacher on his own.
He listened to Reuben explain what he did for a living and could do nothing but smile. Being an herbalist was nothing to laugh at! You had to have knowledge of all these plants and how they work together, especially if you were using them for medicinal purposes. It was a tough job just like any other.
"Being an herbalist isn't anything to laugh at, I think it's a wonderful job!" He exclaimed. "My sister, though she isn't an herbalist, uses various plants in her aromatherapy and massage shop. I have a lot of respect for people who do that sort of work. It takes a lot of time, patience, and social skill."
However, the word tarotist wasn't something he was terribly familiar with. He'd heard of the word tarot before and knew about the cards, but had never ventured to try it out. Still, that didn't mean he wasn't curious about it.
"What does being a tarotist entail?" He asked, clasping his hands in front of him. "I've heard of tarot cards before, but I've never heard of that word being used to refer to someone who makes a living from reading them."
Reuben tucked the pamphlet away, nodding appreciatively. “Ten years is impressive,” he replied, genuine admiration in his voice. “You’ve got to really enjoy what you do to stick with it that long.”
When Oliver expressed enthusiasm for his work, Reuben couldn’t help but blush a little. It was rare to meet someone who showed genuine interest, and it felt good. Deep down, he knew that part of his self-consciousness stemmed from the beliefs ingrained in him by his parents — the notion that success equated to having a "real" career. Still, he was grateful for the warm reception.
“Aromatherapy is truly an art,” Reuben agreed, smiling at the shared appreciation. “I love experimenting with herbs to create new scents for my incense. It’s funny, though — sometimes you think two herbs will blend beautifully, but they just don’t mesh. It’s tricky but so rewarding when you get it right.”
He continued, explaining his work with an open, reflective tone. “As for tarot, I read the cards for others as a part of my living, but it’s more about helping people gain insight than predicting the future,” he said thoughtfully. “I do a daily meditation ritual where I read the cards for myself, and for clients, I take appointments. It doesn’t cover all the bills, but that’s why I focus on herbs, too — creating salves, medicines, teas, things that can really help people.”
Reuben chuckled softly at the misconceptions around his practice. “A lot of people hear ‘tarot’ and immediately think of fortune tellers,” he said, rolling his eyes playfully. “But that’s not what I aim to be. So, I prefer the term ‘tarotist.’ Feels more fitting for what I do.” He smiled warmly, happy to share his passions with someone who seemed genuinely curious.
When Oliver expressed enthusiasm for his work, Reuben couldn’t help but blush a little. It was rare to meet someone who showed genuine interest, and it felt good. Deep down, he knew that part of his self-consciousness stemmed from the beliefs ingrained in him by his parents — the notion that success equated to having a "real" career. Still, he was grateful for the warm reception.
“Aromatherapy is truly an art,” Reuben agreed, smiling at the shared appreciation. “I love experimenting with herbs to create new scents for my incense. It’s funny, though — sometimes you think two herbs will blend beautifully, but they just don’t mesh. It’s tricky but so rewarding when you get it right.”
He continued, explaining his work with an open, reflective tone. “As for tarot, I read the cards for others as a part of my living, but it’s more about helping people gain insight than predicting the future,” he said thoughtfully. “I do a daily meditation ritual where I read the cards for myself, and for clients, I take appointments. It doesn’t cover all the bills, but that’s why I focus on herbs, too — creating salves, medicines, teas, things that can really help people.”
Reuben chuckled softly at the misconceptions around his practice. “A lot of people hear ‘tarot’ and immediately think of fortune tellers,” he said, rolling his eyes playfully. “But that’s not what I aim to be. So, I prefer the term ‘tarotist.’ Feels more fitting for what I do.” He smiled warmly, happy to share his passions with someone who seemed genuinely curious.
Well, Oliver could say that he really liked his job and that was the sole reason why he stuck with it for so long, but it was just a bit more than that. It paid very well and he had a lot of good benefits that came with it. Healthcare, freedom to schedule as he liked, small class sizes, it was really a lot more to like about it that just money. He didn't want to go too far into that, though. Work was often a boring thing to add to conversation anyway.
"Yes, I agree!" He replied, nodding. "She tends to give me the same scents now every year for my birthday, but in the beginning it was difficult for her to understand which I liked best. My house smelled of roses for months before I finally told that I'm not very fond of them for their strong smell..."
He laughed, before becoming engrossed in what Reuben was saying. The way he described it made it sound so typical, and he couldn't help but become more curious because of that.
"If you don't mind," He began, pausing to rub the back of his head again. "Could you demonstrate how you read tarot cards for me?"
"Yes, I agree!" He replied, nodding. "She tends to give me the same scents now every year for my birthday, but in the beginning it was difficult for her to understand which I liked best. My house smelled of roses for months before I finally told that I'm not very fond of them for their strong smell..."
He laughed, before becoming engrossed in what Reuben was saying. The way he described it made it sound so typical, and he couldn't help but become more curious because of that.
"If you don't mind," He began, pausing to rub the back of his head again. "Could you demonstrate how you read tarot cards for me?"
Reuben chuckled softly at Oliver’s little story and nodded in agreement about the strong scent of roses. He found the fragrance pleasing, a classic aroma that never failed to soothe his senses.
When Oliver expressed interest in seeing a reading, Reuben smiled warmly. “I always have my cards with me,” he said, reaching into his bag. After a brief rummage, he pulled out his cherished Victorian Fairy Tarot deck, tucked safely in a soft velvet bag.
Turning to face Oliver fully, Reuben carefully took the cards from their protective pouch and began shuffling them in his lap with practiced ease. “The best way to show you is to give you a general reading, if that’s alright?” he asked, his tone gentle but firm. He believed in respecting boundaries, especially when it came to something as personal as a tarot reading.
“If you’re up for it, we’ll start with a quick mind-clearing exercise,” Reuben continued. “Anything that’s been on your mind, just set it aside for a moment. Focus on this one question: ‘What is the universe trying to tell me at this time?’”
He watched Oliver closely, ensuring he was comfortable with the process. Reuben’s hands continued to shuffle the cards in a slow, rhythmic pattern, waiting for the right moment to draw and reveal what the universe might have to say.
When Oliver expressed interest in seeing a reading, Reuben smiled warmly. “I always have my cards with me,” he said, reaching into his bag. After a brief rummage, he pulled out his cherished Victorian Fairy Tarot deck, tucked safely in a soft velvet bag.
Turning to face Oliver fully, Reuben carefully took the cards from their protective pouch and began shuffling them in his lap with practiced ease. “The best way to show you is to give you a general reading, if that’s alright?” he asked, his tone gentle but firm. He believed in respecting boundaries, especially when it came to something as personal as a tarot reading.
“If you’re up for it, we’ll start with a quick mind-clearing exercise,” Reuben continued. “Anything that’s been on your mind, just set it aside for a moment. Focus on this one question: ‘What is the universe trying to tell me at this time?’”
He watched Oliver closely, ensuring he was comfortable with the process. Reuben’s hands continued to shuffle the cards in a slow, rhythmic pattern, waiting for the right moment to draw and reveal what the universe might have to say.
Well, he hadn't expected Reuben to have the cards, and that probably should have been something to think about before he asked for a demonstration. He mentally slapped himself and nodded. Yes, okay, a general reading sounded benign enough for him. He didn't think it was right to ask for anything complicated, after all.
"That sounds fine, and thank you!" He replied, offering Reuben a sheepish smile. "Also, if you don't mind me asking, how much do you charge for a reading? I can run back to the house afterward, but I wouldn't want you to do this without offering something in return."
He sat up straight, a slight furrow creasing his brow, and pondered the question given. What was the universe trying to tell him? The thought only made his eyes squint further, but he kept thinking about it. If this is what you did when you had a tarot reading done, then it was best to just keep doing it, no matter how odd it was.
"That sounds fine, and thank you!" He replied, offering Reuben a sheepish smile. "Also, if you don't mind me asking, how much do you charge for a reading? I can run back to the house afterward, but I wouldn't want you to do this without offering something in return."
He sat up straight, a slight furrow creasing his brow, and pondered the question given. What was the universe trying to tell him? The thought only made his eyes squint further, but he kept thinking about it. If this is what you did when you had a tarot reading done, then it was best to just keep doing it, no matter how odd it was.
With Oliver’s acceptance, Reuben continued shuffling the cards, speaking as he worked. “Normally, I charge around fifty dollars for a general reading with a three-card spread,” he explained, his tone casual and informative. “If a client wants a deeper dive, like a five-card spread or the full Celtic Cross, the price goes up with the complexity of the reading.” He glanced down at the cards for a moment, shuffling with practiced rhythm. “But for something like this, I don’t charge. It’s a personal rule — I only charge if someone specifically schedules an appointment. Otherwise, I do this because tarot is a huge part of my life, and I love sharing what the cards have to say.”
Reuben grinned and closed his eyes briefly, taking a few deep, steadying breaths just as he would before his own meditations. He slightly opened one eye and couldn’t help but chuckle. “This won’t work if you don’t at least try,” he said, his voice warm with gentle humor. Reuben fully opened his eyes and paused his shuffling. “So, take some deep breaths and keep asking yourself what the universe is trying to tell you. Once you’re ready, just let me know, and I’ll stop shuffling.”
With that, Reuben returned to his task, each motion deliberate and calming. He drew in slow breaths, letting them out evenly, allowing the simple rhythm to clear his mind and set the tone for the reading. This brief moment of mini meditation was his ritual, essential to every reading he performed. He hoped Oliver would find it as grounding as he did.
Reuben grinned and closed his eyes briefly, taking a few deep, steadying breaths just as he would before his own meditations. He slightly opened one eye and couldn’t help but chuckle. “This won’t work if you don’t at least try,” he said, his voice warm with gentle humor. Reuben fully opened his eyes and paused his shuffling. “So, take some deep breaths and keep asking yourself what the universe is trying to tell you. Once you’re ready, just let me know, and I’ll stop shuffling.”
With that, Reuben returned to his task, each motion deliberate and calming. He drew in slow breaths, letting them out evenly, allowing the simple rhythm to clear his mind and set the tone for the reading. This brief moment of mini meditation was his ritual, essential to every reading he performed. He hoped Oliver would find it as grounding as he did.
Oliver tried not to make a face. It didn't feel right to not pay him, even if Reuben said it was alright. But, if he didn't want money, maybe he'd be interested in the recipe for the ice tea he'd shared? He smiled at the thought.
"Well, if not money, I could offer you the recipe for the ice tea I brought with me, if you'd like?" He said, eyes still closed. "Since you like to grow herbs and plants, it should be easy for you to brew at home or at work."
The blond snorted. He was trying, really, he was! He just wasn't the sort of person who's mind easily cleared. Being a teacher and a writer kind of gave you a head full of thoughts and ideas. It wasn't easy for him to ignore his thoughts or just watch them go by. However, he was by no means saying that he couldn't and he really wanted to give it his best shot. It would be good for him to learn how to do this, so when he encountered times where he needed to calm down, he could do so easily. He took a few deep breaths, in time with Reuben, and nodded to himself.
"Okay, you can stop shuffling." He replied, relaxing his shoulders. "I think I'm ready."
"Well, if not money, I could offer you the recipe for the ice tea I brought with me, if you'd like?" He said, eyes still closed. "Since you like to grow herbs and plants, it should be easy for you to brew at home or at work."
The blond snorted. He was trying, really, he was! He just wasn't the sort of person who's mind easily cleared. Being a teacher and a writer kind of gave you a head full of thoughts and ideas. It wasn't easy for him to ignore his thoughts or just watch them go by. However, he was by no means saying that he couldn't and he really wanted to give it his best shot. It would be good for him to learn how to do this, so when he encountered times where he needed to calm down, he could do so easily. He took a few deep breaths, in time with Reuben, and nodded to himself.
"Okay, you can stop shuffling." He replied, relaxing his shoulders. "I think I'm ready."
"I would love the recipe," Reuben said with a smile as he carefully laid the three cards out in front of him, taking a moment to study them before speaking. The Ten of Winter, The Wheel of Time, and The Fairy Bride formed a clear narrative in his mind. He looked up at Oliver, maintaining a gentle, reassuring demeanor.
“Alright, let’s see what these cards have to say,” Reuben began, his voice calm and steady. He pointed to the first card, the Ten of Winter. “This card usually represents a period of hardship or difficulty — often tied to stress or feelings of being overwhelmed. It’s like you’ve been carrying a heavy weight on your shoulders, and it’s taking its toll.” He glanced up at Oliver, gauging his reaction before continuing. “But the Ten also signifies that this phase is nearing its end. It’s a tough journey, but you’re almost through it.”
Reuben moved his hand to the second card, The Wheel of Time. “This card is about change, cycles, and movement. It’s a reminder that life is always in motion, and even when things seem stagnant or repetitive, there’s always a shift on the horizon. This card tells me that luck and circumstances are starting to turn in your favor. It may feel like it’s been a long road, but change is on the way.”
Finally, he pointed to The Fairy Bride, a card of connections and new beginnings. “The Fairy Bride is often about union and the start of something new, whether it’s a relationship, a partnership, or a commitment to something meaningful in your life. It signals that there’s a possibility for something beautiful to grow from this period of transition — maybe even something you didn’t expect.”
Reuben leaned back slightly, offering a small, encouraging smile. “From what I’m seeing, it looks like you’ve been through a lot of emotional or mental strain recently, but there’s a turning point coming. This change could bring an opportunity for a fresh start or even a new connection that adds something positive to your life.”
He paused, letting the words settle and giving Oliver space to ask questions or share his thoughts. Reuben knew that tarot wasn’t about predicting the future but rather gaining insights to help navigate the present. He hoped these cards provided a bit of clarity or reassurance.
“Alright, let’s see what these cards have to say,” Reuben began, his voice calm and steady. He pointed to the first card, the Ten of Winter. “This card usually represents a period of hardship or difficulty — often tied to stress or feelings of being overwhelmed. It’s like you’ve been carrying a heavy weight on your shoulders, and it’s taking its toll.” He glanced up at Oliver, gauging his reaction before continuing. “But the Ten also signifies that this phase is nearing its end. It’s a tough journey, but you’re almost through it.”
Reuben moved his hand to the second card, The Wheel of Time. “This card is about change, cycles, and movement. It’s a reminder that life is always in motion, and even when things seem stagnant or repetitive, there’s always a shift on the horizon. This card tells me that luck and circumstances are starting to turn in your favor. It may feel like it’s been a long road, but change is on the way.”
Finally, he pointed to The Fairy Bride, a card of connections and new beginnings. “The Fairy Bride is often about union and the start of something new, whether it’s a relationship, a partnership, or a commitment to something meaningful in your life. It signals that there’s a possibility for something beautiful to grow from this period of transition — maybe even something you didn’t expect.”
Reuben leaned back slightly, offering a small, encouraging smile. “From what I’m seeing, it looks like you’ve been through a lot of emotional or mental strain recently, but there’s a turning point coming. This change could bring an opportunity for a fresh start or even a new connection that adds something positive to your life.”
He paused, letting the words settle and giving Oliver space to ask questions or share his thoughts. Reuben knew that tarot wasn’t about predicting the future but rather gaining insights to help navigate the present. He hoped these cards provided a bit of clarity or reassurance.
Reuben concluded the reading with a warm smile, his voice sincere as he broke down the final thoughts. “So, from what I’m seeing here, it looks like you’ve been carrying a lot of worry and anxiety,” he began, a gentle concern evident in his tone. “The Ten of Winter really speaks to that — the kind of mental or emotional strain that starts affecting other areas of your life, making things feel heavier than they should be.”
Not wanting to dwell too much on the negative, Reuben’s expression brightened as he continued. “But the Wheel of Time is a good sign,” he said with enthusiasm. “It’s a reminder that change is coming, and luck is going to turn in your favor. The key here is to trust your instincts. When those gut feelings come up, listen to them. Don’t let anxiety keep you from following what feels right.”
Reuben glanced at the last card, the blush on his cheeks deepening as he explained, “And then we have The Fairy Bride, which represents love or a meaningful connection. It’s a sign that there’s potential for something beautiful on the horizon — maybe a new relationship or even a rekindling of something from the past.” He chuckled softly, a bit flustered by the implications of the card. “Love is definitely out there, and the universe might just be nudging you in that direction.”
Clearing his throat, Reuben wrapped up the reading, still slightly flushed. “So, yeah…that’s the reading,” he finished with a sheepish smile. “I hope it gave you some clarity or at least a little reassurance about what’s ahead.”
He glanced at Oliver, hoping the cards had offered some comfort or insight. Reuben knew the cards weren’t about predicting certainties but about reflecting possibilities and providing a guide for what might come next.
Not wanting to dwell too much on the negative, Reuben’s expression brightened as he continued. “But the Wheel of Time is a good sign,” he said with enthusiasm. “It’s a reminder that change is coming, and luck is going to turn in your favor. The key here is to trust your instincts. When those gut feelings come up, listen to them. Don’t let anxiety keep you from following what feels right.”
Reuben glanced at the last card, the blush on his cheeks deepening as he explained, “And then we have The Fairy Bride, which represents love or a meaningful connection. It’s a sign that there’s potential for something beautiful on the horizon — maybe a new relationship or even a rekindling of something from the past.” He chuckled softly, a bit flustered by the implications of the card. “Love is definitely out there, and the universe might just be nudging you in that direction.”
Clearing his throat, Reuben wrapped up the reading, still slightly flushed. “So, yeah…that’s the reading,” he finished with a sheepish smile. “I hope it gave you some clarity or at least a little reassurance about what’s ahead.”
He glanced at Oliver, hoping the cards had offered some comfort or insight. Reuben knew the cards weren’t about predicting certainties but about reflecting possibilities and providing a guide for what might come next.
Oliver opened his eyes and lowered his gaze to the deck of cards. He watched Reuben pull three cards, each with beautiful imagery and words to go with them, and tilted his head. Surely Reuben would explain what they meant, but from his perspective, these cards looked like fancy piece of art and little else. He sat back and blinked, only moving his head up when Reuben spoke.
And, boy. Did he hit him right on the nose.
He looked the Ten of Winter card over like it had accused him of a crime. Worries, anxieties, potential problems, all of these things were true. Being told to follow his gut didn't really do much to soothe his nerves, either. His gut lead him to some interesting places. He wasn't sure if he could trust it. However, the rest of the reading was very positive. Things seemed like they would turn out for the better... The blond took a deep breath through his nose and, slowly, brought himself to nod.
"Thank you, it was... Helpful." He replied, a blush of his own rising against his cheeks. "I don't know about a new relationship just yet, but if one were to happen upon me, I can't say I would turn them down. ... This dumb heart of mine is easily swayed, after all."
He chuckled and cleared his throat, before reaching for his bag again.
"Let me write that recipe down for you." He continued, rummaging for a pen. "... Do you have a business card by any chance? I think I know some other people who would be interested in a reading or herbs from your shop."
And, boy. Did he hit him right on the nose.
He looked the Ten of Winter card over like it had accused him of a crime. Worries, anxieties, potential problems, all of these things were true. Being told to follow his gut didn't really do much to soothe his nerves, either. His gut lead him to some interesting places. He wasn't sure if he could trust it. However, the rest of the reading was very positive. Things seemed like they would turn out for the better... The blond took a deep breath through his nose and, slowly, brought himself to nod.
"Thank you, it was... Helpful." He replied, a blush of his own rising against his cheeks. "I don't know about a new relationship just yet, but if one were to happen upon me, I can't say I would turn them down. ... This dumb heart of mine is easily swayed, after all."
He chuckled and cleared his throat, before reaching for his bag again.
"Let me write that recipe down for you." He continued, rummaging for a pen. "... Do you have a business card by any chance? I think I know some other people who would be interested in a reading or herbs from your shop."
Reuben carefully gathered the cards, taking an extra moment to glance at The Fairy Bride once more before shuffling the deck a few times. He liked to clear the energy after each reading, ensuring the deck was ready for whatever came next. Once the cards were back in their velvet pouch, he tucked them away in his bag.
When Oliver inquired further, Reuben smiled and reached into his bag again, this time fishing out a business card. “Ah, here it is,” he said, pulling out a neatly designed card with "The Mystic Herb" printed in elegant letters at the top. Beneath the title were his name, the shop’s address, and a contact number. Reuben flipped it in his fingers and held it out to Oliver with a warm smile.
“If you ever need another reading, or if you’re interested in some herbal remedies, just stop by,” he said, his voice genuine. “I’m glad this one was helpful for you.” Reuben’s expression was open and encouraging, offering a sense of ongoing connection beyond just this lakeside meeting.
When Oliver inquired further, Reuben smiled and reached into his bag again, this time fishing out a business card. “Ah, here it is,” he said, pulling out a neatly designed card with "The Mystic Herb" printed in elegant letters at the top. Beneath the title were his name, the shop’s address, and a contact number. Reuben flipped it in his fingers and held it out to Oliver with a warm smile.
“If you ever need another reading, or if you’re interested in some herbal remedies, just stop by,” he said, his voice genuine. “I’m glad this one was helpful for you.” Reuben’s expression was open and encouraging, offering a sense of ongoing connection beyond just this lakeside meeting.
Oliver had found his pen and a small writing pad from his bag and was busy jotting down each step of his iced tea recipe. It was only a handful of steps and waiting, not too much of a major thing, but he hoped it wouldn't be too difficult to try. He smiled, capped the pen, and exchanged what he'd written for Reuben's business card.
"I'm glad I met you today, Reuben. That reading was just what I needed." He said, nodding along. "I'll certainly keep you in mind and," He paused, waving the business card a little. "I'll send a few of my friends over to you. I'm sure you can brighten a lot of people's days with what you do. I know you've made mine a whole lot better than before."
"I'm glad I met you today, Reuben. That reading was just what I needed." He said, nodding along. "I'll certainly keep you in mind and," He paused, waving the business card a little. "I'll send a few of my friends over to you. I'm sure you can brighten a lot of people's days with what you do. I know you've made mine a whole lot better than before."
Reuben smiled warmly as he received the iced tea recipe, tucking it carefully into his bag. It felt like a small, yet meaningful exchange, a token of the unexpected connection they had made. As he stood up, he listened to Oliver’s parting words and nodded in agreement.
“It was really great meeting you too, Oliver,” Reuben replied, sincerity in his voice. “I’m happy today was helpful for you. And absolutely, I’d love to meet again someday. And if you can, spread the word about The Mystic Herb — every bit helps,” he added with a grateful chuckle.
With that, Reuben adjusted the strap of his bag over his shoulder and began the walk back toward his home. The day felt lighter, and the encounter left him with a renewed sense of optimism. As he strolled along the familiar forest path, a quiet thought lingered in his mind, bringing a faint blush to his cheeks: Trust me, Oliver, you brightened my day too.
“It was really great meeting you too, Oliver,” Reuben replied, sincerity in his voice. “I’m happy today was helpful for you. And absolutely, I’d love to meet again someday. And if you can, spread the word about The Mystic Herb — every bit helps,” he added with a grateful chuckle.
With that, Reuben adjusted the strap of his bag over his shoulder and began the walk back toward his home. The day felt lighter, and the encounter left him with a renewed sense of optimism. As he strolled along the familiar forest path, a quiet thought lingered in his mind, bringing a faint blush to his cheeks: Trust me, Oliver, you brightened my day too.