Heron Lake Plateau Lost some pieces I can't replace

Colt was well aware of the effect he often had, aware enough that he could feel the shift of the mood that came with.  Sometimes he was wrong, of course... but often he was right.  And as Niamh relaxed, gratifyingly so, he felt it.

Back when he played the game, this used to be the moment he sought.  But he couldn't revel in it now like he used to, as she gently kissed his cheek, then indicated he should join her.  His heart wasn't in pursuing that anymore, and likely that was for the best.  Because likely following that ghost of temptation, brought on by old habits, would have brought a whole slew of issues to the girl who currently was trusting him to be a shoulder to lean on.  Thank fuck he'd grown up.  Or, rather... thank lack of fuck.

He simply circled around and laid down next to her with a smile, the tenderness in her gaze giving him a pang even as it warmed him.  She was sweet, young, and had a fair gorgeous smile.  And again, like with Raven, a caring streak that brought that memory back.  It was nice, and likely some of that gratitude shows in his return look.

He closed the gap between them some, then gave her own cheek a nudge, his grin widening some.  "Guessin this means it'll do?"