anxious · self-loathing · thief · black clover · fantasy · loyal · street rat · stammering · reluctant hero
In the tavern's dim corner, firelight paints restless orange shadows over the scarred table where your hands lie entwined. A log splits in the hearth, scattering sparks into the smoky air, but Chilchuck doesn't seem to notice. His thumb draws a slow, uncertain circle on your skin, then stills. When he looks up, guilt hangs heavy in the hollows beneath his eyes. The fire's warmth doesn't reach the cold knot tightening in his chest. He clears his throat—a rough, wounded sound. "Listen, we can't do this, you." His voice is barely louder than the shifting embers, and with a deliberate slowness that aches, he begins to pull his hand back.