to the waters edge

They were only words but Indigo wasn’t one to go back on his promises. He hadn’t been able to really find where he fit, only drifting along helping wherever he was needed but specializing and feeling passion in nothing. Perhaps he’d start to feel better when the spring returned but for now the winter, and being so far from Asla, had him down. Cosette was a brightness in the storm he weathered, and vowing to be better than what her family did to her was an easy vow.

She said he was a real friend. Indy felt his cheeks warm and he gave her one more smile as he mentally shook his difficult memories. He vowed to Rue he wouldn’t let what happened to her happen to another. He’d keep Cosette safe as long as she wanted him to. ”You’re welcome, Cosette. I’m glad you found me.” His chest rumbled again but it wasn’t the frustrated growl he’d uttered earlier. The sound was a pleasant tone and he smiled as he looked ahead.

Dark ears fell to his skull again as she spoke her question softly. He grit his teeth as they approached the Hallows. ”I think.. Maybe.” His heart hurt as he thought about Rue. ”It's hard not to think about the bad things though.” Indy’s voice darkened a little as he tried to banish the thought. Leaving Asla, losing Rue, they were memories that would never leave him, and both weighed heavily on the vivid violet boy.

Cosette gave him relief from both, a break in the status quo. She was vulnerable and needed help, and Indy was there and willing to help. His efforts gave him a sense of satisfaction, especially when she squeezed him around his neck. ”My aunty said when one door closes another opens, I wonder if that’s what she meant.” Indigo would give even further credit to the yearling girl’s musings.