[her body relaxes into his the longer they remain close, and she too feels her own sense of grief well up in a small pocket in her heart. she doesn't know why; perhaps still reeling from Akvos, or perhaps even further back, to when they broke up, the fight they had. or even further, to the wish he had written and she tucked away. knowing it may never be so, at least not for him in their universe.

so her own expression is soft, eyes glossy and feeling overwhelmed from all the conflicting emotions she's feeling, but through it she manages a small laugh.]

We've done enough arguing. [enough to last a lifetime, it feels.

and before she can think things through, he's bending down to kiss her, a soft contast to hers, and she yields to it, eyes closing, remaining closed as he pulls away and his lips press warm against her forehead.

and she feels. a lot. heart aching at the truth in what he says.

knowing it's the truth. and when she opens her eyes, she finds his searching hers. and she holds his gaze. steadfast, determined.]

I wish you had a happier childhood. [she brings her hand up to rest at the center of his chest, curling her fingers against the plating. it's hard, finding the words to say. it's hard knowing what it is she wants to say.] But...I am...

[a pause.]

A part of who I am, is thanks to you. [without him, she would never have found Oriande. would have never believed her own potential. and he came into her life in a moment where she was at such an impasse, a paladin still uncertain of her role.

it's then that she pulls away, only to take his hand in hers, twining her fingers between his.] And I am truly glad we were finally able to talk.