[ If it is bad to think that way, then Asbel can at least rest assured that he isn't alone in it. The more they talk, the more Richard regrets not having done this sooner. In some ways, though, the wait only makes this particular journey all the more meaningful. Maybe it's the urgency of it, or maybe it's something else entirely...

That something else isn't totally unrelated to the way Asbel's smile makes his own widen all too easily. ]

A... fashion contest? I must admit, I never expected to hear those words come out of your mouth. [ He's... genuinely shocked, but it paves the way for amused incredulousness as he chuckles- ] Now I feel as though I must see this award-winning swimsuit in person.