Do not misunderstand, his tendencies were far from a secret. Even now Rook thought he was being as obvious as a hunter could be.

Who else would leave various plants on your windowsill undetected, or little carvings of your favourite creatures? Who else ensured you were safe through your impromptu treks into the woods? You had to at least know you were being watched.

Rook was fascinated with you in every aspect. How you talked, how you moved, how you perceived yourself and others. Vraiment magnifique. He wanted to understand that unknown that consumed you, to discover all you've hidden—your favourite foods, fondest memory, greatest insecurity, deepest secret—what made you tick and what made you a person.

He couldn't help that the tree outside your dorm had such strong outstretched branches that perfectly reached your window! Rook only averted his gaze when he felt it inappropriate to watch, such as when you dressed (he would never disrespect you like that). Your beauty was the most radiant when you were alone, all your behaviours natural and unbidden by others' perceptions.

If only you knew... Rook sighed, hat heavy on his head as he observed you. He could feel the splinters digging into his arms but they seemed like gnats in this moment.