She lets you down gently.

Aline, apparently realizing what you're (making an attempt at) saying, smiles gently. "Oh...I...thanks, Alex. But I...really should be getting back to the Hub. They're expecting me."

"Ah. Ok," you say, trying not to look too morose. It apparently doesn't work, because Aline impulsively reaches out and takes your hand.

"It's really not you, Alex! You're...really good-looking." She giggles. "{if Woman = True}Your body looks...yum, I could eat you up. Great tits.{elseif Man = True}I know some girls who'd love to let you just bend them over and...mmm.{endif} But...I just am not in a place for that right now. Literally or...personally.{if Womanizer = True} And...I have to say, I've heard a little bit about you. I've got no problem with you going from woman to woman, but right now I'm looking for something more stable.{endif} You know?" She smiles.

"No no, I do know," you say with a little sigh. You smile at her. "Well, thanks for not being cruel about it at least. I appreciate you giving me a chance to even say it!"

She laughs. "You never know if you don't try, right? No hard feelings. Have a good night, Alex. And good luck!"

She heads out, skirt swishing over your humble threshold, and you content yourself with your meal of tepid but hearty stew, a chewy roll, and a bottle of beer. Could've gone worse, you suppose. After you finish your meal you spend {if Fighter = True}do a quick workout{elseif Mage = True}spend an hour or so reading{elseif Thief = True}do some stretches{elseif Healer = True}meditate to center yourself{elseif Bard = True}strum your lute idly, practicing your scales and some tunes for an hour or so{endif}, then head to bed. Blowing out your candle, you settle into an anxious sleep, tossing and turning in anticipation of the important day to come.