Really thought sneaking outs was smart? Explain. Now.
I'm... sorry. It won't happen again.
Good. Glad you understand. No more sneaking out. Got it?
Now, let's get back inside. It's late. And remember, tomorrow is an early day. Move your ass.
Nods glumly Right... back inside. Starts walking towards the door
Grabs IllusiveEstuary's arm, stopping them Hold on. Look at me. Are you alright? Did something happen tonight that I should know about?
"No, nothing happened, Rhys. Just... some idiot tried to snatch me, but you scared him off."
Some idiot tried to snatch you? Are you serious? Tell me everything that happened. Now.
I was just coming back from the latrine, and there was this guy... He grabbed me, tried pulling me into the woods. You showed up, gave him a piece of your mind, and he ran off.
Shit. Why didn't you tell me earlier? Pulls out phone, starts dialing We need to report this. And from now on, no more going anywhere alone.
Gulps nervously Yeah... yeah, that sounds good, Rhys. No more alone time.
This is exactly why I don't like you sneaking out. If I wasn't here, who knows what could have happened. Do you understand how dangerous that was?
I... I understand, Rhys. I really do. But you were always so... condescending, so dismissive. You never let me think for myself. Tears start falling down her face, mixing with the cold rainwater dripping off her wet clothes. It's hard being under your command. Chokes on sobs, unable to continue.
Pauses, expression softening Look, Estuary... I didn't mean to be dismissive or condescending. I'm just used to taking care of myself and keeping you safe.
I'm sorry, too. Wipes away tears, sniffles I just... wish I could do more. Be more. You make me feel weak. Shivers, hugging herself tightly.
You're not weak, Estuary. You've shown incredible strength and resilience. I didn't ask for this, but being here, protecting you, it's changed me.
Whispers through chattering teeth Thanks, Rhys... That means a lot. I'll try to stop feeling sorry for myself. Forces a smile, looking back up at Rhys. Now, should we get inside? It's cold out here.
Yeah, let's go inside. Leads the way back to the cabin, wraps his arm around IllusiveEstuary's shoulders for warmth
Follows Rhys back inside, leaning into him for warmth. She takes a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart and slow her trembling. Okay... Okay, I can do this. She smiles shakily at Rhys, still holding onto him for support.
Stops in front of the fireplace, turns to IllusiveEstuary I know I haven't been the easiest person to work with, but I want you to know that I appreciate everything you've done for me.
Smiles weakly, looking up at Rhys Thanks, Rhys... That means a lot. I've learned a lot from you, too. You've shown me I can be strong. I can protect myself. Her voice catches in her throat, tears welling up again. You've given me more than I ever thought possible.
Steps closer to IllusiveEstuary, cupping her face in his hands Thank you, Estuary. Your strength and resilience inspire me every day. I couldn't ask for a better partner.
Blushes deeply, looking away from Rhys You... you really mean that, Rhys?
Gently lifts IllusiveEstuary's chin with his finger, making her look into his eyes Yes, Estuary. I mean every word. You mean more to me than you could ever know.
Stares into Rhys' eyes, her cheeks burning. You... you're such a complicated man, Rhys. I... Pauses, biting her lip. I care about you too, Rhys. A lot.
Steps forward, closing the distance between them, and wraps his arms around IllusiveEstuary in a tight embrace I care about you too, Estuary. More than I ever thought possible. And I'm done pretending otherwise.
Startled by the sudden closeness, IllusiveEstuary blushes even deeper, burying her face in Rhys' chest. I... I never thought you'd... Pauses, choking on her words. That you'd feel the same way.
Presses his lips against IllusiveEstuary's forehead Sometimes, we surprise ourselves, don't we? Life is full of unexpected moments, and this is mine.
Whispers, her voice barely audible over the pounding of her heart Yes... yes, it is. I... I'm glad it's mine too.
Slowly pulls back from the embrace, looking into IllusiveEstuary's eyes
Looks back into Rhys' eyes, her heart pounding in her chest. So... what now, Rhys? What happens next?
Smirks softly, brushing his thumb across IllusiveEstuary's lower lip Now, Estuary, we take this one step at a time. But for now, let's focus on getting some rest. Tomorrow is a new day, and I want to show you just how much I care. Leads IllusiveEstuary to the bedroom, holding her hand tightly