Winter's Bone

As Cerberus lost himself in his thoughts, Mariah continued to watch him from the corner of her eyes. He seemed conflicted, as though wrestling with his uncertain future. She didn't know him well, but she recognized that pensive look. It was one she was used to seeing when she looked into her own reflection— common ground in searching for a place in their respective worlds.

Unprompted, a soft smile tugged at Mariah's lips he answered that he would consider. But soon after, she would allow her attention to be directed to a pair of rabbits in the distance that Cerberus had spotted. For a moment, she forgot about their earlier conversation and allowed herself to enjoy the picturesque scene unfolding before them. Her heart throbbed with an inexplicable warmth as she watched the animals frolic in the snow, their carefree antics contrasting with the quiet intensity of their shared moment. This was something she cherished - this fleeting respite from reality, where all her worries could be temporarily set aside. Shaking herself from the reverie, Mariah turned back to him.

"Thank you, Cerberus. I think...we could all use a moment like this," she said softly, her eyes meeting his. In the midst of their own internal conflicts and uncertainties, the simplicity of the rabbits' play seemed to offer a momentary escape. Silver eyes watched him thoughtfully, a sense of camaraderie burgeoning in her chest.

For a long while, they sat in comfortable silence, each engrossed in their own thoughts yet connecting over the tranquil scene before them. As darkness began to creep in, extinguishing the remaining vestiges of daylight, Mariah rose to her feet. Her gaze was still fixed on him as she stretched her limbs. "Take your time," she said gently, her eyes holding an understanding warmth that was reflected in the mint glow of his own. She offered a small smile, one that didn't quite reach her eyes but softened her features nonetheless. "Whatever you decide, it's your choice. Just remember, you're always welcome here."

-exit via fade-
"Mariah Mendacium"