Novacaine

Mariah, taking in the raw vulnerability in Caedes' voice, felt a surge of protective warmth. She gripped him tighter, her slender form pressing against him, reinforcing their contact. His pain was palpable, as vivid and real as the swirling dawn sky over Alias island. And she knew, in the depths of her soul, that she would do everything in her power to help him heal, to bring the light back into his haunted emerald eyes. "I see your hurt because I also see your strength. Your regrets... they show the depth of your love and loyalty."

Mariah's heart twinged in her chest at the despair etched into his face, the raw yearning in his voice. Seeing him in this state, so broken and remorseful, was akin to a wound to her soul. Yet she didn't waver, her determination unyielding. "You already are," she replied, her voice soft yet resolute. "And you always have been. Your past, your blood... they don't define you, Caedes. You do."

Mariah felt a wave of tenderness wash over her, a soft smile gracing her features. "Your weakness is also your strength," she murmured gently. "And I love you for it – for who you are, all of it." She watched as his gaze softened, the flicker of relief in his eyes empowering her further. Tenderly, she traced a path along his jawline with her paw, each touch a silent affirmation of her words.

But as they finally reached a moment of reprieve, she could see the exhaustion in his weary frame. Without, asking, Mariah pulled him back down in her bed. Gently insisting that he lie with her. To rest. Gods, how long had it been since he rested? She wouldn’t get to stay much longer before having to begin her day, but she would stay as long as she needed to to give him these precious moments of peace. She nestled herself against his side, her head resting in the crook of his shoulder while her tail brushed against his flank in a comforting rhythm. The steely firmness of his muscled body was a stark contrast to the delicate softness of her own, yet they fit together as seamlessly as two halves of a whole. Her slender paw traced patterns on his scarred fur, her touch light and soothing. The steady rhythm of his breathing, his heartbeat thundering beneath her ear, it was a comforting symphony that lulled them both into a sense of tranquility.

"Mariah Mendacium"