Bearclaw Valley and heaven knows,

cole listened carefully, his golden eyes soft with understanding as frederick spoke. the man was clearly beating himself up over whatever had caused the rift between him and milan, and cole could feel the weight of it in his words. he took a slow breath before answering, his southern drawl low and steady, like a warm breeze on a cool night.

it's alright, frederick, he began, his tone easy and consoling. we all stir up a wreck from time to time. life’s messy like that. what matters is you’re wantin’ to fix it, and that says a lot ‘bout you.

he shifted his weight, glancing toward the horizon for a moment, gathering his thoughts. milan’s... well, she’s okay. just a little gloomy lately. been keepin’ to herself more than usual, kinda reclusive. but that don’t mean she’s shut the door on you. sometimes folks just need space to sort their own minds.

cole met frederick’s gaze again, a small, reassuring smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. you’re doin’ the right thing, wantin’ to make that first step. it’s hard, especially when it’s somethin’ new like this. but milan’s got a good heart. she’ll see your effort if you’re genuine.

he let his words hang in the air for a moment before adding, don’t be too hard on yourself, alright? love ain’t always easy, but it’s worth fightin’ for.