An Unfamiliar City, A Familiar Embrace

Colt let out an exaggerated eyeroll at her defence of Ruth, though he bit back the first thing that came to mind—how the man was only good at healing and fucking things up in equal measure. Instead, he settled on a dry, Pretty sure Megara would incinerate him if he stepped too far out of line. Might even enjoy it. His smirk was wry, but his eyes softened as he looked at her, still lingering on the warmth of her touch and the gentle way she smoothed over his awkwardness.

At her mention of Yoon, he gave a noncommittal shrug, a low chuckle rolling out of him. He’s sound enough, he admitted. Just don’t give him too long a leash, or he’ll start singing ballads about his lost missus’ lips. Colt still wasn’t sure if that story was true or just some dramatic flourish Yoon had concocted, but either way, he hadn’t spent much time alone with the elf to find out.

He rubbed at the back of his neck, suddenly feeling a bit sheepish about his earlier words. And, uh—yeah, maybe that wasn’t my smoothest line, he muttered, voice low, before flashing her a roguish grin. But you’re still stuck with me, so I reckon you’ll just have to deal with it.

Then she tilted her head, asked him for a dance, and just like that, whatever embarrassment he’d felt melted away into something warmer, something eager. Oh, you best believe I’ll find you for that dance, he promised, his tone full of playful enthusiasm, head nodding emphatically. I’m not about to let a dress like this go to waste. Or a lady like you.

Before he could say anything more, the music shifted. The murmur of conversation in the crowd dulled as a voice rang out to announce the newlyweds. Megara and Nairn stepped forward, taking the floor for their first dance as husband and wife.

Colt exhaled through his nose, amused and quietly relieved by the sight. Hells, I never thought I’d see the day, he muttered, watching the way the two moved together in effortless synchrony. Took ‘em long enough.

Then, with a small glance back at Mina, his grin returned, slower this time. Soon as they’re done, and the floor fills up a bit, you and me, yeah? He waggled his brows, stepping just a touch closer. Prob best I get my dance in early before things get too busy and that shit head claims you back as his date.

@“Wilhelmina”