shame me for my mistakes

Audra answered Avantika's question in affirmation, sending a rush of love through her. She let herself press against the woman for a moment before something clicked. She didn't move away, but she stiffened a bit. She couldn't let herself be comfortable; she was never really safe. How could she forget that? She whispered, "What if I can't?" and turned her head away so that she didn't have to look at Audra's face. She was terrified of the answer, but she continued. "What if I get hurt and can't protect you anymore?" This time was uncertain. If Audra could get hurt, then there was no reason Avantika couldn't as well.

She stayed quiet, thinking on her own.

"Speech"