Jade Fern Grove We'll be the color in all this black and white

His closeness settled her as they worked together, but Elphie didn't reach out, and she tensed a little when he did. Don't forget to eat, okay? And sleep before the sun starts to rise, She offered a smile to soften the fact that she was pulling away from him. Elphie was certain now that what she needed was some time on her own, before her conflicting desires truly created conflict between them.

Ironically she found it easier to keep herself in the present when Nox was away; easier to focus on the sensations of her own existence, here and now. But she could never tell him that. Instead, she said, Might head into the mountains too, see what's around, See if I can get my shit together. I won't go too far.