Was this for you?

Rafael held her a little tighter, the warmth of the water a comforting contrast to the chill of her words. Her smirk and the teasing about pet names brought a smile to his lips, a small relief in the midst of the weighty conversation.

Well, he began, keeping his tone light, I'd like to hear those other names, just to see if they're as bad as you think.

But then he grew serious, sensing the depth of her concern. Her warning about affection and her family was no small thing. He understood the gravity of her words, the heavy burden of duty and expectation that came with her title.

I know what I'm getting into, Rafael said softly, looking into her eyes. After all, he was from a lower Antivan Noble family, he understood what it meant to be nobility, and though he wasn’t royalty, still understood the even greater weight on their shoulders. Your family, your responsibilities—they're all a part of who you are. But I believe we can find a way to navigate it.

He paused, brushing a strand of wet hair away from her face. Choices may come, and they won't be easy. But right now, in this moment, I choose you. And I hope, even if it's just for a little while, you'll choose me too.

Rafael's heart ached at the thought of the inevitable challenges ahead. He knew that her loyalty to Antiva was unshakable, but he couldn't help but hope that they could carve out a space for themselves within those constraints.

We'll take it one step at a time, he continued, his voice steady. You don't have to make any decisions now. Let's just focus on the here and now, on finding your strength and your magic again. We'll face whatever comes later. He didn’t care to think about tomorrow, for the moment the here and now was just fine for him.

@Adaria Campana