Silence, you Uneducated Peanut

Adaria felt a warmth spread through her chest as Rafael spoke, his words cutting through the fog of doubt and fear that had been clouding her mind. It was like he had a way of making everything seem possible, even when the world felt like it was spinning out of control. She held onto his hand a little tighter, as if that simple act could tether her to the one solid thing in her life.

She looked up at him, her lips curving into a small, almost shy smile. You always make it sound so easy, she said, her voice barely more than a murmur. Like we can just waltz back into Antiva and stare down everyone who thinks they can control us. I wish I could see it that way.

Her eyes drifted away, staring out at the bustling scene beyond the window, a frown tugging at her brow. But I know what they’re capable of, Rafael. My brother… he’s had time to perfect his game. And the court, the Merchant Princes - I don’t want to be a weapon they can use against the people I care about. If they tested her magic, her reach of power to infiltrate the mind, it could reveal her hand too quickly.

Her gaze flickered back to him, the vulnerability in her eyes mingling with a steely resolve. I know you’re not afraid, and maybe I shouldn’t be either. But I am. And I’m tired of pretending that I’m not. She let out a shaky breath, as if finally admitting it was like releasing a weight she’d been carrying for too long.

… Weakness.

But… I believe you, she added, her voice softening as she looked at him, really looked at him. I believe you when you say you’ll be there, that we’ll get through this together. And maybe that’s what scares me the most - because if I lose that, if I lose you... I don’t know how I’d handle it.

For a moment, she seemed lost in thought, her expression caught between fear and hope. Then, she straightened, as if mustering all the courage she had. So maybe you’re right. Maybe we make it dance to our tune for once. Her smile widened, a flicker of mischief lighting up her eyes, a glimpse of the old Addy, the one who hadn’t been so burdened by the world.

And as for my brothers, Gio especially… She shook her head, a hint of defiance in her tone. If he thinks he can control me, he’s got another thing coming. I won’t be their pawn. Not again. Not ever. And if they try to use me against you, I’ll make sure they regret it.

She laughed then, the sound light but real, and she felt some of the tension in her chest ease. Her expression softened, and she reached up, brushing her fingers along his jaw, her touch gentle, reverent. Is… that your way of a proposal? Because frankly that’s… we can do better, Rafael. A proposal didn’t come from a place of fear, or helplessness. It came from certainty, and currently Adaria was unsure of everything, even the length of their time together.

Try again when you find a ring… or kil- No. I cannot ask you to kill Gio, that’s too far.

Currently, anyway.

@Rafael Acosta