Was it getting hot in here, or was it just him? Suddenly, he was glad to be reclining in the cool pool of water. His breath grew more strained as the reality of her words fully sank in.

This… oath. It would change their lives forever.

A lifelong responsibility. Dedication. Loyalty. Was he deserving of that? Truly?

Dante didn’t know, but it wasn’t his place to pass judgment. She was the Queen. She intended to be his Chosen. He, her Sworn Sword.

The weight of it settled onto his shoulders, and he found he couldn’t tear his gaze from her own.

I would die for you. For your children. For this kingdom. I would see you happy and content with life once again. To watch you grow into the Queen you are meant to be… would be the ultimate honor.

He was speaking, but it didn’t sound like his voice, too quiet, too certain. Still, he didn’t stop.

I see you too, mi girasol. The way you reach toward the sun, desperate to shed your winter coat and properly bloom. Your future is so bright.

Suddenly, the words felt like too much, and he had to look away. The intensity was searing, the tension thick enough to cut.

Did he want this?

May… may I have a few days to consider? This is not a small ask, nor one I want you making lightly. I think a few days, for us to truly sit with the idea, the reality of what our lives would be, are needed for something so sacred.

Turning back to her, his emerald gaze softened.

This is not me rejecting you. In fact, it is quite the opposite. My first instinct is to say yes, but I want this to be a safe choice for both of us. One not made purely on emotion.

Why did it feel as though she could see all of him? As if that teal gaze could catch every hesitation, every doubt. Was he becoming careless, or was she something else? Something more?

Drawn from his thoughts by the touch of her muzzle against his, Dante couldn’t stop the smirk that tugged at his maw.

And leave you to do all the work? No, I don’t think so.

With that, he pulled himself free from their tangle in the pool and gave his pelt a quick shake, sending droplets scattering in her direction. A low chuckle followed as he slipped just out of reach of any retaliation.

His dark tail wagged lazily behind him, body relaxed despite the weight of everything they had discussed. He set it aside for now, carefully tucking it away for later thought, and returned his full attention to Apple.

You coming? Or are you just going to sit in that pool while I do the dirty work?

His tone was openly teasing, easy, and patient.