There are many people that a gang could set upon on a night, and even get away the victors. But even with the advantage of numbers, attacking the four tipsy people who'd been weaving down the street has turned out to be very much the wrong decision. Because the four tipsy people are in fact military trained. That they're tipsy barely impedes their reactions. It doesn't take them long to have it over with, breathing a little rushed, faces flushed with adrenaline and grins.
"I have not watched any but you two are obviously enjoying yourselves."
The way he looks at them is almost familiar. Fondness is so good. He hadn't any for a while.
Percy mentally debates his options and recent nutrient intake. He figures he doesn't need to closely observe Aaren's cooking to balance out vitamins, fibers and fat, but... "Do you want help? I would enjoy helping you cook and I would like to contribute."He turns to Lan and smiles. "Not that I wouldn't like to watch Young Frankenstein, I expect it to be fun."
"We'll cue it up for when Dad's finished cooking," 'Chelle says. "S'one of his favourites."
Decisions. Deep down all he "wants" is to stay. He doesn't know these people well enough to figure that out, but he is sure they are going to keep him for a few days. So he makes his shoulder shrug. "Likewise."
"-Y'know what, you can help chop things, that way I don't slice my own fingers off and cause a need for an impromptu trip to hospital."
Kitchen! Aaren gives Percy some vegetables to cut, and a few instruction on how they should be cut.
Percy pays attention and follows the instructions. When he makes a mistake that Aaren catches (never something too terrible), he pauses for a moment and follows the instructions more precisely. He does that without Aaren need to speak.
Aaren notices, but doesn't actually mention anything. And in short order: stir fry!
He hands two bowls to Percy. "Let's go join Lan and 'Chelle. There's plenty more if you're still hungry afterwards, help yourself."
Percy beams and obeys
(If Percy noticed the noticing, he doesn't visibly react to it.)
Aaren chuckles and gives Lan the other bowl he's carrying as he passes and settles into the chair on the far side of the room, leaving the one near the door for Percy.
He takes the cue and seats himself, positioning so he can look at everyone else in the room. He starts eating mechanically, but pays attention to everyone's taking bites of their bowls like they are eating a vastly different and superior meal.
(Unless someone catches him and feels uncomfortable, then he will stop.)
'Chelle flashes him another grin as Lan hits play, and kicks her legs over Lan's lap as she eats.
Percy grins at her. He will divide his attention and also watch the movie, of course.
'Chelle finishes first. "Should we get the spare bed cleared?" she asks, tilting her head back to look at her Dad.