The Heartwood oh, adi, don't you know you're still number one?

her paw into his chest might have been a missile into earth; he withstood it, but flinched all the same, and ducked his head, shaking it.

easy, he said, after she'd finished. i love them, too. but you deserve better than me, ishara—seriously.

he pulled away and took a step, or two, offsides. catching his breath; blinking back the tears.

easy, i'm sorry, adi murmured.

i love you.