Silence, you Uneducated Peanut

Adaria let out a soft, almost shaky laugh as they stepped outside, the sunlight warming her face and easing some of the tension knotted in her chest. Rafael’s hand in hers, warm and steady, felt like an anchor, a lifeline in the chaos that had consumed her for days. She glanced up at him, her lips curving into a small, genuine smile—one that hadn’t surfaced in far too long.

Somewhere quiet, she echoed, her voice carrying a note of relief. You have no idea how good that sounds right now. All the noise, I can’t even hear myself think. She shook her head, exhaling slowly, her shoulders finally beginning to relax. Thank you…. It’s like you know exactly what I need before I do.

Her grip on his hand tightened briefly, a silent acknowledgment of how much his grounding presence meant to her. I’m always the one trying to hold it all together, you know? It feels strange to let go of all that, even for a moment. But with you… it’s easier. You make it easier.

She glanced at him, her smile softening. You don’t even ask me to explain. You just… get it. And that means more to me than I can say.

As they moved further from the house, the sounds of the movers and the weight of responsibility began to fade into the background, replaced by the soothing hum of the outdoors. The idea of going somewhere quiet, somewhere secret, where no one could find them, sent a small spark of excitement flickering through her.

So, a secret spot? she asked, her tone lighter now, curiosity piqued. Are you finally going to let me in on one of your mysteries? Or are you just going to keep me guessing the whole way there? Her teasing smile grew, the rare glimmer of mischief dancing in her eyes.

She tilted her head, studying him as they walked. You’re being very cryptic, Rafael. Should I be worried? The corner of her mouth quirked upward, the teasing laced with genuine anticipation. For once, she didn’t care about the consequences, about what needed to be done or who might be looking for them. For the first time in what felt like forever, she let herself trust him completely, let herself be led.

Alright, Raffy, she said, her voice softening again, though the excitement still lingered. Show me your quiet little corner of the world. I think I’m ready to escape with you. Maybe this secret place would be their refuge in the days to come?

@Rafael Acosta