The Red Means I Love You

Redrum's heart races as Elara's words sink in, her voice a soft rasp that makes his own pulse quicken. He feels her gaze falter, watching as her eyes drop to her feet, and it makes him want to hold her tighter, to reassure her.

‘Yes,’ She murmurs, ‘I… want that too. To stay close.’

Her words are so soothing to his insecurities. He embraces her, feeling a spark beneath his skin from the way she lights up from the inside out. When did this become so intense? So overwhelming? But he loves it, loves the way she makes him feel so alive. So strange.

‘What have you been up to?’ She asks, nudging his shoulder. Her eyes reflect the stars above, and he feels a pang of longing, knowing he’s missed so much of her and her life just by proximity alone. He could only visit so many times.

“Elara…” Redrum begins, his voice a low rumble, filled with the earnestness he was well known for now. “Red missed Elara — so much. Been everywhere. Seen forests so thick — no light gets through. Met wolves — big and strong, some smart and wise. But no one — like Elara. Not at all.” No. Because no one will ever measure up to the pedestal he put her on.

He pauses, taking a deep breath, his golden eyes locked on hers. “Red thought about Elara — every day. Wondered if Elara was — safe, happy. Red wanted to say these things sooner — but he had to learn, and get stronger first.” Be someone, something, a wolf who could protect what he cared about.

By now she’s pressed herself against him, aligning their bodies, and he feels a surge of protectiveness and something more, something thrilling. He wraps his neck and chin around her, holding her close, his large frame enveloping her in warmth. Her teasing tone does nothing to ease his anxious thoughts. He thinks telling her everything will help. Won’t it?

“Red missed — Elara’s laugh. Her smile. Her… everything,” He admits, his voice softening as much as his broken speech would allow. “Everywhere Red went, he thought — ‘Elara would love this.’ Or ‘Elara should see this.’” His jaw twitches while he speaks, ears flicking as he tries to banish the spasms that wrack his body. He hates that he’s like this, but he cannot be any other way.

He pulls back slightly, looking into her eyes, his own filled with a rare, vulnerable light. The vermilion prince offers her a shy, boyish grin, his heart pounding wildly as he waits for her response.