Was this for you?

Rafael listened intently, his eyes softening as she spoke. He could see the weight of her words and the doubts that lingered in her eyes. He reached out, gently taking her hand in his, offering silent reassurance.

Acquainted with an elf, you say? he mused with a smile. It sounds like an intriguing prospect. If you trust them, then I am sure they are worth knowing. Besides, it's always good to have more allies, especially in these times. Sure he was of noble birth, but his parents had always been much lower in society than would be preferred as a match for Adaria, but that didn’t phase him any of course.

The glint of mischief in her eyes brought a chuckle from him. Is there anyone your grandmother didn’t complain about? Or at least, those were always the rumours that swirled around Antiva.

Her mention of needing a nightshirt made his smile widen. He brushed a strand of hair away from her face, his touch tender. Of course, I have just the thing. And I must admit, I rather enjoy helping you out of things as much as into them.

With gentle care, Rafael lifted her, carrying her towards the bed. She was light in his arms, a testament to the trials she had endured, but there was a strength in her that he admired deeply. He placed her down gently, making sure she was comfortable before retrieving a spare nightshirt for her.

Helping her into it, he couldn't help but smile at the intimacy of the moment, a stark contrast to the chaos and danger they often found themselves in. Once she was settled, he slipped into bed beside her, pulling the covers over them both.

He wrapped an arm around her, holding her close. Rest now, my love. We will face whatever comes together. You are not alone. He meant it too, even if she ended up having to marry someone else, he’d still stand by her, no matter what.

As the room grew quiet, the only sound was their breathing, slowly synchronising. The warmth of the bed and the comfort of each other's presence began to lull them into a peaceful sleep, leaving the worries of the world outside the door for another night.


@Adaria Campana