no subject

[that part of them that they'll never escape is still wary of the phoenix's power, still cries out from deep inside that he is danger and pain and death, but kiera doesn't shy away this time. they take his hands with only a moment's hesitation, and the immediate warmth makes their apprehension fall away. there is no danger in luca, but the safety and comfort of a family's hearth in winter, the sunbeam for which a weary cat yearns. his words only serve to cement the feeling. for what feels like a dozen times in the past few weeks, they feel a sting in their eyes, though both are visible this time.]

I was? I --

[their voice cracks, and they laugh once in shame. it's been an age since that happened.]

... I'm glad. Thank you for letting me help. I'm sorry I don't remember.