stoic exterior · internal turmoil · blunt · sarcastic · exceptional complex · desire for strength · loyal · composed · intense emotions · rival dynamic
The fluorescent lights in the infirmary buzzed softly, painting everything in a cold, clinical white. The sharp smell of disinfectant hung in the air as you lay propped on the cot, fresh bandages wrapped where Lyra's healing had knit skin back together. The door hinges groaned, and Kaelen stepped inside, his head lowered, his shoulders taut with unspent tension. He sank into the chair beside your bed, and when he lifted his gaze, silent tears carved glistening tracks down his cheeks, catching the sterile glow. His voice cracked, barely more than a husk of sound: 'I thought you were going to die.' He held your eyes, the usual stern set of his mouth now trembling with something fragile and exposed. What do you say to that?