For The Visual Novel Game The Kid At The Back, I Created A Student ID Card For My Original Character,

For the visual novel game The Kid at the Back, I created a student ID card for my original character, Isabella Morales.

You can check out Beneath the Surface (Last Updated 07/18/2024)

The Kid at the Back is a psychological, romantic, horror fantasy visual novel for viewers ages 18+, created by the amazing @fantasia-kitt

The Proxy is Crushing?

Here are some cute headcanons for Wise when he has a crush:

Nervous and Fidgety: Wise tends to become visibly nervous around his crush. His usually calm demeanor becomes more anxious, often shifting his weight from one foot to the other or playing with his hands.

Crush: "Do you have any good documentary recommendations? I’ve been wanting to learn more about ancient civilizations."

Wise, fidgeting with a VHS tape and shifting his weight: "Oh, um, yes! There’s this amazing documentary about the history of Mesopotamia. It's really detailed and fascinating. I, uh, could lend you a copy if you'd like?"

Thoughtful Gestures: Wise pays close attention to the little details about his crush, often remembering their favorite things and surprising them with thoughtful actions. 

Wise, handing a fresh cup of coffee: "Here, I thought you might need this."

Crush, pleasantly surprised as they smell the coffee: "You remembered my favorite coffee blend?"

Wise, smiling shyly: "Yeah, I thought you might need a pick-me-up. I remembered you mentioned it last week."

Blushing: Despite his typically composed nature, Wise can’t help but blush when his crush compliments him or gets too close. 

Wise is organizing some VHS tapes on a shelf, focused on his task. He’s been chatting with his crush about the latest movie releases. 

Crush, smiling warmly: "You look really nice today."

Wise, momentarily stunned and turning to face them, cheeks flushing: "Oh, uh, thanks! You... you look great too."

Overthinking: Wise often overanalyzes his interactions with his crush, replaying conversations in his mind and wondering what they meant by certain comments. He can get caught in a loop of second-guessing himself.

Crush gives Wise a compliment.

Crush: "You always have the best ideas!"

Later, Wise confides in Belle: "Do you think they meant that? Or were they just being nice? Maybe I read too much into it..."

Subtle Compliments: He praises his crush's intelligence, sense of humor, or unique qualities, always in a subtle, genuine way.

Crush: "I'm not sure if I can pull this off."

Wise, sincerely: "You always surprise me with how capable you are. I believe in you."

Protective Streak: Wise becomes more protective of his crush, always looking out for their safety and well-being.

Crush: "I'm thinking of going into the Hollow alone."

Wise, concerned: "Alone? No way. It's too dangerous. Let me come with you."

Daydreaming: Wise often finds himself daydreaming about spending time with his crush. He imagines different scenarios, from fun outings to quiet, intimate moments.

Wise is sitting at the counter, staring out the window with a distant look in his eyes. He’s imagining a cozy afternoon at home, snuggled up on the bed with his crush. They’re wrapped in a warm blanket, watching a movie together, with his crush resting their head on his chest.

Belle, waving a hand in front of his face: "Hello, Earth to Wise!"

Wise, snapping out of it and shaking his head slightly: "Oh, sorry! Just...thinking about something."

Nervous Laughter: Wise tends to laugh nervously when he's flustered, trying to cover up his feelings with humor.

Crush, noticing Wise's slightly tense posture: "You seem nervous. Everything okay?"

Wise, laughing nervously while rubbing the back of his neck: "Me? Nervous? Nah, just, uh, excited, I guess."

Crush, raising an eyebrow playfully: "Excited, huh? About what?"

Wise, still chuckling awkwardly as his cheeks flush: "Oh, you know... just the usual stuff. Nothing major."

Confiding in Belle: He secretly confides in Belle about his feelings, seeking advice but often regretting it when she teases him.

Wise talks to Belle about his crush.

Wise: "I can't stop thinking about them. What if they don't feel the same?"

Belle, teasing: "You? Overthinking? Never. Just be yourself, Wise. They already seem to like you."

Subtle Flirting: Wise tries to flirt subtly, using clever wordplay and teasing remarks, hoping to gauge his crush's reaction.

Crush, looking around the carefully set-up room: "Did you really plan all this?"

Wise, with a soft smile and a hint of teasing in his voice: "Maybe. I had to impress you somehow, right?"

Crush, smiling warmly: "Oh, I'm definitely impressed. I didn't know you had such a sweet side."

Wise, chuckling gently: "Well, I guess you bring out the best in me." He looks at them with genuine affection, his eyes warm. "Besides, I think you're worth the effort."

Whispers in the Rain

Sebastian rode through the streets on his motorcycle, cursing to himself. He had just gotten into a bad argument with Demetrius and needed to get away from home. The rain was coming down hard, the drops hitting him like little bullets on his skin, but he didn’t care. He just needed to escape.

He followed the familiar path leading him to the cliffs where he often found solace. The roar of the motorcycle was drowned out by the sound of the rain and the crashing waves below. When he reached the cliffs, he pulled off to the side and turned off his motorcycle, sighing as he took his helmet off.

As he looked towards the cliffs, he saw someone standing where he normally would. Through the rain, he squinted and realized it was Mariana. Her presence there puzzled him. What was she doing out here in the rain?

Mariana stood at the edge of the cliff, wearing a light blue raincoat that kept most of the rain at bay. Her umbrella lay on the ground beside her, open but unused. She closed her eyes, letting the rain kiss her gently as she took deep breaths, trying to calm the restlessness within her. The cold air seeped through her raincoat, but she didn’t mind; the chill was invigorating, matching the turmoil in her mind.

The rhythmic patter of rain was usually calming, but today it echoed the chaos inside her. She stared out at the turbulent sea, its relentless waves crashing against the rocks below. It mirrored how she felt—relentless, unyielding, yet beautiful in its own way.

Sebastian stood there, the rain hitting his face and hair, causing it to stick to his skin. He stared at Mariana, not expecting her to be in his spot. He felt a small pang in his chest but quickly pushed it away. His mood was already sour, his argument with Demetrius still fresh in his mind. But something about seeing her there made him feel a strange sense of comfort. He stayed silent for a few moments, the rain filling the air with its sound before he spoke.

"What are you doing out here?"

Mariana turned at the sound of his voice, her expression softening when she saw him. Her big, red curly hair with soft copper highlights, usually vibrant and bouncing with life, was now weighed down by the rain, framing her face in damp tendrils. Despite the wetness, there was a certain calmness in her sky-blue eyes, a contrast to the storm raging around them.

"Sebastian? I could ask you the same thing," she said, her voice gentle. "I come here to think sometimes, especially when I need to clear my head. But why are you out here in this weather?"

Sebastian's gaze softened a little as he looked at her, taking in the sight of Mariana drenched from the rain and still looking somewhat at peace. He slowly made his way over, standing next to her on the edge of the cliff, the rain beating down on them and soaking them further.

He let out a frustrated sigh, his hands clenching into fists as he spoke. "I needed to get away from home for a bit. Had a stupid argument with Demetrius... Needed some space to cool off, you know?"

Mariana nodded, understanding. "I get it. Sometimes you just need to escape for a while."

Sebastian's shoulders slumped slightly as he felt some of the tension ease. He sighed again, running a hand through his wet hair, causing it to stick to his face. "It's always the same thing with him, you know? Judging me, criticizing me for doing freelance programming work instead of getting a 'real job.' I can never do anything right in his eyes..."

Mariana reached out, placing a comforting hand on his arm. "It's hard when people don't see the value in what you love. But your work is important, Sebastian. It matters to you, and that's what counts."

Sebastian was slightly surprised by her touch, but he didn't pull away. Instead, he looked down at her hand resting on his arm, feeling the warmth of her palm through his wet clothes.

"I know... I just wish he could see that, you know? That it's not just something I'm doing to piss him off... It's what I love. And I'm damn good at it."

Mariana nodded, understanding the frustration in his voice. "It's hard when people don't understand your passions. But just because he doesn't see it, doesn't mean it's any less valid. You are amazing at what you do, Sebastian. Don't let anyone make you feel otherwise." She began caressing his arm gently, her touch soothing. "I see it. I see you, and I'm proud of you."

Sebastian felt a shiver run down his spine at her words and her touch, his heart giving a small pang in his chest. No one had ever said they were proud of him before, especially not for his programming job.

"Y-you're proud of me...?" he asked in an almost whisper, looking over at her, his usual sarcastic or snarky attitude replaced with vulnerability.

Mariana inched closer to him, her hand moving down from his arm to his hand, holding it gently as she reassured him. "Yes, Sebastian. I'm proud of you. I see how hard you work and how much passion you put into what you do. It matters, and it makes a difference."

Sebastian's heart was hammering in his chest, the simple act of holding hands feeling incredibly intimate. He swallowed, his mind swirling with emotions. He wasn't used to genuine affection or praise, always used to being criticized or looked down on. He slowly intertwined his fingers with hers, his gaze locked on hers as he spoke, his voice quieter than usual. "You... really mean that, don't you?"

Mariana nodded, her eyes filled with sincerity and warmth. "Of course I do, Sebastian. I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it. You are an incredible person, and what you do is important. I see your dedication and passion, and I admire it. I admire you."

Sebastian felt himself blushing slightly, the heat spreading through his cheeks and down his neck, thankfully somewhat hidden by the rain and the dim light. He looked down at their intertwined hands, his thumb gently brushing over her skin.

He wasn't used to such earnest compliments. He was used to sarcasm and criticism, not genuine care and admiration. It was an unfamiliar sensation, one that he both relished and was slightly afraid of. He swallowed, his voice barely audible over the sound of the rain. "No one's ever... said anything like that to me before."

Mariana smiled softly at him, her eyes filled with warmth. She reached up with her free hand, gently brushing his wet hair out of his face. The tender gesture made his heart flutter. "Well," she said, her voice as soft as the rain, "I'll just have to say it every day for you, then."

Sebastian's breath caught in his throat at her touch, his heart stuttering in his chest. He felt a sudden fluttering in his stomach, and he had the urge to look away to hide his flustered expression. But he couldn't. His gaze remained locked on hers.

He swallowed, feeling vulnerability and affection for her. He tried to remain sarcastic, but his voice came out softer, more serious than he had intended. "Every... day, huh? That's a lot of praise."

Mariana's hand, which had brushed away his hair, now rested on his cheek, caressing it softly. She smiled, her eyes filled with warmth and sincerity. "You deserve all the praise, Sebastian."

Sebastian let out a shaky exhale, his skin tingling under her touch, his heart racing in his chest. He leaned into her hand slightly, the gentle caress making him feel both comforted and strangely nervous. He swallowed, his gaze still locked with hers, his usual sarcastic demeanor melting away to reveal something more genuine. "And if I... don't believe you...?" he asked quietly, his voice slightly hoarse.

Mariana's smile remained warm and tender. She gently brushed her thumb across his cheek, her touch soft and reassuring. "Then I'll just have to keep telling you until you do," she said, her voice filled with determination and affection.

Sebastian's breath hitched at her reply, his heart skipping a beat. The combination of her touch, her determination, and the sincerity in her voice was overwhelming. It was a foreign feeling, to be cared for and seen for who he was and not what he was supposed to be. He chuckled softly, the sound tinged with vulnerability. His free hand moved to rest on top of hers, which was still on his cheek, covering it completely. He swallowed, the words he never thought he'd say slipping from his lips. "And what if... I didn't want you to stop?"

Mariana's smile softened even more, her eyes filling with warmth and affection. She gently squeezed his other hand while her thumb continued to caress his cheek. "Then I won't stop," she whispered. "I'll keep reminding you every day, for as long as you need."

Sebastian felt relief and anxiety wash over him. He had never been the focus of such unwavering care and affection before. It both scared and comforted him. He swallowed, trying to regain his composure. But his heart was betraying him, his skin still warm under her touch. He tried to speak, but his voice came out quieter than usual. "And what if I... need it forever?"

Mariana's smile grew even more tender, her eyes shining with love. She moved her other hand holding his hand to rest on his other cheek, cupping his face, her touch soft and reassuring. "Then I'll be here forever," she whispered. "I'm not going anywhere, Sebastian. I'll be by your side as long as you need me."

Sebastian's heart pounded in his chest, his breath catching in his throat as she held his face in her hands. He felt a wave of emotions wash over him—surprise, vulnerability, and a growing affection for her. He wasn't used to someone showing him such unwavering loyalty and affection. His hands moved to cover hers, his fingers gently curling around her wrists. He swallowed, his voice barely above a whisper. "You... promise?"

Mariana brought his face closer to hers, gently resting his forehead against hers. She closed her eyes, her voice soft and filled with warmth. "I promise." She nuzzled her nose against his, a tender gesture that sent a shiver down his spine.

Sebastian closed his eyes as well, his heart fluttering at her touch. The closeness between them felt intimate and unfamiliar, yet somehow... natural. He could feel her breath on his face, mixed with the coolness of the rain. He swallowed, his fingers twitching around her wrists as he tried to process the overwhelming emotions bubbling up inside him. He opened his eyes slightly, looking at her through half-lidded eyes, his voice still a whisper. "Forever is... a long time."

Mariana's smile widened, a tender light in her eyes as she held his gaze. "Forever with you isn't long enough," she countered softly, her words filled with sincerity and affection.

Sebastian's heart skipped a beat, a wave of emotions crashing over him at her words. He felt his walls crumbling, his usual guarded demeanor falling away, replaced by a vulnerability he was unaccustomed to. He swallowed, trying to find the words to express the maelstrom of feelings inside him. But instead, he just whispered the first thing that came to his mind. "That's cheesy."

Mariana laughed softly, the sound a soothing balm to his frayed nerves. She reached up and gently brushed a strand of wet hair away from his forehead, her eyes twinkling with affection. "Maybe it is," she replied, her voice a gentle tease, "but sometimes, a little cheese is good for the soul."

A small smile tugged at the corners of Sebastian's lips, despite his attempts to keep a straight face. Mariana's laugh and the light-heartedness in her voice made his heart flutter. He let out a half-hearted scoff, trying to regain some of his usual aloofness. "You're a sap," he muttered, although his tone lacked its usual sarcasm.

Mariana giggled softly, her eyes sparkling with affection. "Maybe I am," she said, her voice teasing but warm. "But you know you love it."

Sebastian rolled his eyes, although a slight flush crept up his cheeks at her words. He knew he didn't have a good retort to that. Because secretly, he did love it. He loved the way she knew how to break through his tough exterior and bring out his soft side. He let out a half-hearted sigh, his hands still holding onto her wrists. "Don't let it go to your head, okay?"

Mariana laughed softly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. She pulled back just enough to look at his face, her hands caressing his cheeks. "No promises," she teased, her touch gentle and reassuring. “But I’ll try to keep my sappiness in check."

Sebastian huffed out a half-hearted laugh, amused despite himself. He knew he was already losing this little battle. The way she could bring out his softer side with such ease was both endearing and infuriating. He tried, in vain, to feign indifference, but he couldn't help the tiny smile that tugged at the corner of his lips. "You're insufferable, you know that?"

"And you wouldn't have it any other way," she replied, her voice warm and loving.

Sebastian's heart gave a little flutter at her words. He knew it was true. Despite his gruff exterior and his tendency to keep people at a distance, he secretly relished the moments when she saw through his facade. The times when she knew exactly how to make him smile or blush. He grumbled, mock-annoyance, even as his smile widened slightly. "Shut up."

Mariana laughed, the sound bright and full of joy. Sebastian's hands moved from her wrists to gently hold her face, his thumbs brushing over her cheeks. As he held her face, he felt his heart thudding in his chest. Mariana's laughter was infectious, and her happiness radiated off her like a warm aura.

Her tan skin, a beautiful contrast to the rain, seemed to glow with warmth. He smiled, the expression soft and genuine, his thumbs gently caressing her cheeks. The rain continued to fall around them, but it didn't matter. At that moment, all he could focus on was her and the warmth he felt in her presence.

"Let me take you home," he said softly, his voice filled with tenderness.

Mariana looked at him fondly, her eyes glistening with emotion as she leaned into his touch. Her skin was soft under his fingers, and the proximity made his heart flutter. "Will you stay?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes searching his for reassurance.

Sebastian's heart skipped a beat at her question. The vulnerability in her gaze, combined with the trust she was placing in him, made him feel a rush of affection and protectiveness. He nodded, his smile widening, the corners of his eyes crinkling with genuine emotion. "Always," he replied, his voice steady and sincere.

Without another word, he leaned in, closing the distance between them, and gently pressed his lips to hers. The kiss was tender and full of promise, sealing his vow with the warmth of his affection. Mariana responded, her hands gently caressing his cheeks as she leaned into him, deepening the kiss. The world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in that moment of pure connection.

Their lips lingered together for a few seconds before slowly pulling apart, their foreheads resting against each other. The rain fell softly, a gentle backdrop to their shared intimacy. Sebastian's eyes remained closed for a moment, savoring the closeness. When he opened them, he saw the same depth of emotion reflected in Mariana's gaze. "Let's go home," he murmured, his voice filled with affection and certainty.

Mariana nodded, her smile radiant. "Yes, let's."

Masterlist

Started: 06/12/2024 Last Updated: 10/09/2024 Total Work: 56

Blooming Panic

Nightowl

Blossoming Love (x OC)

Blushing with Love (x OC)

Painting Love on Nails (x OC)

Check Out My Completed Story, Blossoming Love (x OC)

NakedToaster

The First Dance (x OC)

Touch (x OC)

Flustered (x OC)

Heartfelt Connections (Headcanons)

Quest

Michelangelo (x OC)

Entwined Roses (x OC)

XYX

Ride to Love (x OC)

Golden Sunset (x OC)

Something's Wrong with Sunny Day Jack

Sunny Day Jack

My Heart's Sunshine (x OC)

Nick

Shot at Love Chapter 1 (x OC)

Shot at Love Chapter 2 (x OC)

Ian

Heartstrings (x OC)

Shaun

A Symphony of Healing : Part 1 (x OC)

A Symphony of Healing : Part 2 (x OC)

Lies of P

x Reader

Heart's Tender Whisper

Stargazing Whispers

Headcanons

Gentle Gears of Affection

Sweet Whispers

x OC (Elara)

Moonlit Whispers

Rhythms of the Heart

Embraced in the Shadows

First Encounters

Passionate Unfolding

Zenless Zone Zero

Wise

The Proxy is Crushing? (Headcanons)

A Thoughtful Heart (Headcanons)

Von Lycaon

Gentleman's Heart (Headcanons)

Moonlit Confessions (Headcanons + Short Story)

Bonds of Love (Headcanons)

Tender Vigil (Headcanons)

Gentle Guidance (Headcanons)

Waiting for You (Headcanons + Short Story)

Billy Kid

Starlight Flutters (Headcanons)

Rina

Graceful Flutters (Headcanons)

Nicole

Cunning Hearts (Headcanons)

Repurpose

Noel

Fallen Embrace Chapter 1 (x OC)

Fallen Embrace Chapter 2 (x OC)

The Luckiest One (x OC)

Eternally Forever (x OC)

Ramon

It's a Trap (x OC)

A Night to Remember (x OC)

Persona 5

Akira Kurusu

Cafe Connections (x OC)

Check Out the Completed Story (x OC)

Stardew Valley

Sebastian

Whispers in the Rain (x OC)

The Kid at the Back

Beneath the Surface ( x OC)

Original Characters ID From Beneath the Surface

Forbidden Love (Sol x Reader/You)

Destiny 2

Crow

A Moment of Peace (x OC)

Unbreakable Bonds (x OC)

Palia

Reth

Bonds of the Heart (x OC)

Jel

Moonlit Embrace (x OC)

When the Night Comes

Ezra

Lunar Festival with Ezra (x OC)

Kingdom Hearts

Pure Heart (x OC)

Flustered

As Elena engaged NakedToaster in playful banter, her fluent Spanish enveloped him like an enchanting melody. He was unable to decipher the words, but the rhythm of her speech and the twinkle in her eyes set his heart racing. The gentle cadence of her voice and the way her lips shaped each syllable were mesmerizing, even if he couldn't grasp their meaning.

Toasty found himself utterly captivated, his attention fixed on Elena as he tried to interpret her intentions through the veil of an unfamiliar language. "What are you saying?" he inquired, a sheepish grin revealing his complete befuddlement yet undeniable fascination.

With a twinkle of mischief in her eyes, Elena responded, "Ah, if only you could understand." Her laughter, melodious and infectious, filled the air. "Maybe I'm saying how much I enjoy talking to you, or perhaps I'm commenting on how cute you look when you're confused."

Toasty felt his cheeks warm with embarrassment and delight. "That's not fair," he protested, his tone light and playful. "Here I am, at your mercy, hanging on to every word I don't understand."

"That's the fun part," Elena replied, her smile widening. "But I promise, it's all in good fun. I like making you blush; it's adorable."

Despite the language barrier, Toasty was utterly captivated by her. The way she moved, the expressive gestures that accompanied her words, it all drew him in deeper. He laughed along with her, enchanted by the sound of her voice, even as he wished he could grasp the meaning behind her words.

Elena's playful spirit was evident as she continued to sprinkle their conversations with Spanish, taking pleasure in Toasty's bewildered attempts to follow along. After delivering a particularly fast-paced sentence, she laughed, "You should see yourself right now, mi amor." Toasty, always ready to play along, retorted with mock frustration, "I hate you so much." Yet, the warmth in his eyes and the blush on his cheeks told a different story, one of deep affection, which Elena understood perfectly.

Elena, fully aware of the affection behind his words, leaned in closer, her voice a soft tease. "You mean, you love me so much," she corrected playfully, her gaze locked on his. Their exchange was a dance of unspoken feelings and shared understanding.

Toasty, caught in the spell of the moment, couldn't help but smile genuinely, the tension of the language barrier melting away in the face of their mutual affection. "Maybe I do," he admitted, the admission hanging between them, charged with the promise of deeper confessions yet to come.

As their interaction wound down, Toasty realized he had been so engrossed in Elena's presence, so taken by their playful exchange, that any initial awkwardness had melted away. The connection they shared transcended language, rooted in the joy of discovery and the warmth of mutual attraction.

Looking into Elena's eyes, he saw not just playful teasing but also genuine affection. "I might not understand your words, but I think I understand your heart," he said, a sincere smile touching his lips.

Elena's laughter filled the digital space between them, a sweet melody that seemed to bridge the physical distance of their video call. She brought her hand to her heart, a gesture of warmth and reassurance. "And that, querido, is all that matters. There's plenty of time for you to learn Spanish," she teased, her eyes sparkling with the promise of future joys, laughter, playful teasing, and perhaps, lessons in love.

As they ended the call, Toasty was engulfed in a wave of anticipation for their next virtual meeting. The playful banter, the challenge of bridging their linguistic divide, and the undeniable connection they shared had ignited something extraordinary. Despite the confines of a screen, their bond promised to deepen with each conversation, a testament to the strength and resilience of their growing relationship.

Unbreakable Bonds

Crow sat comfortably on the floor in the HELM, with Hawkmoon dismantled on his lap. He meticulously cleaned each piece, humming softly while he worked. His concentration was so intense that he wouldn’t hear anyone sneaking up on him.

Aria entered the room silently, her presence almost ethereal. Her tan complexion had a subtle glow, with light shifting under her skin, giving her an otherworldly appearance that hinted at her Awoken heritage. Her striking eyes, a mesmerizing mix of vivid turquoise and deep emerald green, scanned the room before resting on Crow.

She wore sleek, dark Warlock armor adorned with iridescent accents that complemented her glowing skin. The armor was lightweight and form-fitting, designed to enhance her agility and grace in combat. Her long, raven black hair, streaked with vibrant blue and violet, flowed in loose waves down her back. Her makeup was ethereal and beautiful, enhancing her mystical appearance.

Aria moved closer, her steps almost soundless on the floor. As she approached Crow, she took a moment to observe him, noting the careful attention he gave to Hawkmoon.

“Crow,” she called softly, her voice carrying a gentle tone.

When he heard his name, he snapped his head up, eyes widening momentarily. Recognition flickered in his expression as he saw Aria standing there, her otherworldly presence catching him off guard.

“Aria.” He said, surprise laced in his tone. He relaxed a fraction, his shoulders lowering. He placed Hawkmoon carefully on the floor next to him.

Aria took a step closer, her glowing eyes reflecting the dim light of the HELM. "I'm sorry if I startled you," she greeted, her voice calm and steady.

Crow shook his head, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. He rested his forearms on his knees, his gaze locked on her. “You’re a stealthy one, you know that?” He replied, his tone lightly teasing. “And you didn’t startle me. I was just... focused.”

Aria allowed a small, amused smile to grace her lips. "I'll take that as a compliment," she said, her voice carrying a hint of warmth. "It's good to see you, Crow."

Crow chuckled softly, appreciating her subtle sense of humor. He gestured with his head towards a space on the floor next to him, silently inviting her to join him.

“Likewise, Aria. It’s been a while, hasn’t it?” He said, his expression sincere.

Aria accepted the invitation, gracefully lowering herself to sit beside him. She looked at him with a gentle smile, her glowing eyes reflecting warmth. "It has," she agreed. "A lot has happened since then."

Crow nodded in agreement, his gaze shifting momentarily to Hawkmoon and then back to her. “Too much has happened.” He admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of weariness. He leaned back slightly, using his hands to support himself. “Things are... tumultuous, to say the least.”

Aria nodded, understanding the weight of his words. “They are,” she agreed softly. “But amidst the chaos, we find our strength. And sometimes, it’s the tumult that shapes us into who we’re meant to be.”

Crow let out a dry, humorless chuckle. "That's a nice way to look at it, I suppose. But sometimes I wonder..." His voice trailed off, and his gaze turned contemplative as if he were lost in a sea of thoughts. He paused for a moment before speaking again. "Sometimes I wonder if who I’m meant to be... is even someone worth being."

Aria's eyes softened with understanding and empathy. She moved closer, her presence radiating a quiet strength. She reached out and gently placed her hand on Crow's arm, a reassuring touch grounding him in the moment. "Crow," she said gently, "we all have doubts about our worth, especially when we're haunted by our past. But I see you for who you are now, and you are worth being. More than you know."

Crow’s eyes flicked down towards her hand on his arm, then back up to meet her gaze. A mix of emotions flickered across his face—uncertainty, doubt, and a hint of the lingering guilt he carried. But there was something else there too, something akin to vulnerability. He sighed, her words sinking in, and he spoke with a hint of resignation. "You give me too much credit, Aria. My past is not something easily forgiven."

Aria's grip on his arm tightened slightly, a gesture of reassurance and unwavering support. "Crow, forgiveness isn't about forgetting the past. It's about recognizing the changes you've made and the person you've become. You've shown time and again that you're more than your past mistakes."

Crow looked away for a moment, his expression conflicted. "It's hard to see that when all I remember is the harm I've caused."

Aria gently lifted his chin, guiding his gaze back to hers. "Then let me remind you. Every day, you choose to be better, to help others, to protect those who can't protect themselves. That is what defines you now, not the shadows of who you were."

Crow's eyes met hers, and at that moment, he felt a wave of conflicting emotions wash over him. On one hand, the sense of guilt and doubt still loomed heavily, and on the other, there was a small flicker of hope that her words had ignited. He searched her gaze, looking for any sign of dishonesty or pity, but he found none. All he saw was unwavering conviction and trust.

He exhaled, his breath shaky, and his shoulders sagged slightly. "How do you do that?" He said softly.

Aria's grip on his chin remained gentle, her thumb softly caressing his skin. "Do what?" she asked, her voice equally soft, her eyes never leaving his.

Crow swallowed, his gaze not wavering from hers. Her touch, though soft, seemed to ground him, anchoring him to the present moment. He continued quietly. "How do you see the best in me when I find it so hard? When all I see are my faults and mistakes, you still manage to find something worthy."

Aria's thumb continued its gentle caress on his chin, her eyes soft and filled with unwavering conviction. "Because, Crow, I've seen your actions. I've seen the choices you make every day to be better, and to help others. You aren't Uldren. You are Crow. And Crow is someone worth believing in."

Crow's eyes darkened slightly at the mention of 'Uldren', the guilt of his past transgressions surging forth. But he pushed the feeling down, focusing on her words, on the certainty in her gaze. He closed his eyes, letting her words sink in, allowing them to wash over him.

He took a deep breath before speaking again, his voice barely above a whisper. "And what if I lose myself... again? What then?"

Aria's hand moved from his chin to his cheek, her touch gentle and reassuring. Her other hand came up to cradle his face, softly caressing his skin. "You won't," she whispered, her voice filled with unwavering conviction. "And even if you start to, I'll be here to bring you back."

She leaned forward, bringing his head down until their foreheads rested against each other. The intimate gesture was grounding, a tangible connection that anchored him in the present moment.

"We're in this together, Crow," she continued softly, her breath mingling with his. "I won't let you lose yourself. And you won't have to face any of this alone."

Crow's eyes remained closed as he felt her breath against his face. The closeness of her, the feeling of her hands on his skin, the words she spoke, it felt... comforting, grounding. It was a stark contrast to the usual feelings of isolation he would often feel.

His body relaxed instinctively, tension easing from his shoulders, and he leaned into her touch, seeking her comfort. He let out a shaky exhale, his voice barely audible. "I don't deserve you."

Aria's touch grew even gentler, her thumbs brushing against his cheeks with soft, soothing strokes. "Crow," she whispered, her voice steady and filled with warmth, "you deserve kindness, compassion, and forgiveness just like anyone else. You deserve someone who sees the good in you, even when you can't."

She pressed her forehead more firmly against his, her eyes closing as she focused on the connection between them. "You deserve to be loved and to find peace. And I'm here to remind you of that, every day."

Crow let out a low, shaky breath as she spoke. Her words cut through the guilt and doubt that had settled around his heart like a dark veil. He swallowed the lump that had formed in his throat, his voice slightly hoarse as he spoke. He lifted his hands, gently resting them on hers, holding her hands against his face. He opened his eyes, meeting her gaze once more, his own eyes filled with vulnerability and gratitude.

He let out a shaky breath, his forehead still pressed against hers. "Why... why do you care so much?"

Aria's eyes softened, her breath mingling with his as she held his gaze. "Because I see the person you are, Crow. Not the shadows of your past, but the light of your present and the potential for your future. You've shown kindness, bravery, and a desire to be better. That's worth caring about."

She paused, her thumbs gently caressing his cheeks. "You forgave me for what I did, Crow. You knew I was the one who killed Uldren, and yet you never blamed me. You accepted me, flaws and all. How could I not care for someone like you?"

Crow's heart clenched tightly in his chest as she spoke, her words cutting through the layers of guilt and self-doubt he had been wrestling with. He wanted to believe her, wanted to accept her words as true, but he couldn't shake the feeling that he didn't deserve such unwavering care and compassion.

He searched her eyes, looking for any hint of falsehood, any sign of dishonesty, and found none. All he saw was unwavering sincerity and a quiet determination to make him see his worth.

He closed his eyes again, his voice cracking with a hint of raw emotion. "I... I don—"

Aria gently placed a finger over his lips, silencing him with a soft, reassuring touch. "Shh, Crow," she whispered, her eyes filled with warmth and love. "You don't have to say anything. Just listen."

She moved her hand from his lips to cradle his face, her thumbs gently caressing his cheeks. "You forgave me for killing Uldren. You never held it against me, even when you had every right to. You saw the person I am, not just the actions I've taken. And that's why I care so much about you."

Crow's eyes opened, meeting hers with vulnerability and a glimmer of hope.

Aria continued, her voice steady and filled with emotion. "I see the good in you, Crow. I see the kindness, the bravery, and the strength you show every day. And more than that, I've come to care for you deeply. I love you, Crow. Not just as a friend, but as someone who believes in you, who sees your worth even when you can't."

Crow's breath hitched in his throat as Aria's words washed over him like a warm, soothing current. The mixture of emotions inside him swirled like a storm, a maelstrom of fear, guilt, and a growing hope that he might, just might, be worth her love.

He leaned into her touch, his eyes never leaving hers, his expression of fragility and burgeoning hope. He swallowed as he tried to find his voice, his voice soft and wavering with raw emotion. "You love me?"

Aria's eyes softened even more, her thumbs continuing their gentle caress on his cheeks. "Yes, Crow," she whispered, her voice filled with unwavering sincerity and tenderness. "I love you. Every part of you. I love you for your kindness, your bravery, and your strength. But most of all, I love you for who you are and how you see me."

Crow's breath hitched as he drank in her words, his heart hammering frantically in his chest. Her confession—so unexpected yet so beautiful—was like a soothing balm to wounds he had thought were untreatable.

He took a shaky breath, his voice barely above a whisper as he responded. "How? After everything I've done? How can you love..." He trailed off, swallowing hard, the words stuck in his throat.

Aria, sensing his turmoil, gently pushed him back so he was leaning against the wall. She climbed into his lap, her movements fluid and graceful, and positioned herself to face him. Holding his face close to hers, she framed his cheeks with her hands, her touch warm and reassuring.

"Because you are not Uldren," she whispered, her eyes locked onto his with unwavering conviction. "You are Crow. You are the person who has shown kindness, bravery, and the desire to be better every single day."

Crow's breath hitched as she settled onto his lap, her touch like a life raft in a storm-tossed sea. His hands came up involuntarily to rest on her hips, steadying her and holding onto her like a lifeline. Her proximity was intoxicating, his senses were overwhelmed by her proximity, her perfume, the way her eyes seemed to see right to his soul.

He swallowed heavily, still wrestling with feelings of unworthiness. When he spoke, his voice was a ragged whisper. "But my past... my mistakes..."

Aria leaned closer, her nose gently rubbing against his, her breath warm against his lips. "Those mistakes belong to Uldren, not you," she whispered, her voice filled with unwavering conviction. "You are Crow, and you are so much more than your past."

Crow's eyes filled with tears, the raw emotion of her words breaking through the walls he had built around his heart. He held onto her hips tighter, needing her closeness, her reassurance.

Aria continued to speak softly, her words like a soothing balm to his soul. "You have shown time and again that you are capable of great things, Crow. And I believe in you, more than you know."

She pressed a soft kiss to his forehead, her lips lingering for a moment, offering comfort and love. "You are not alone in this," she murmured against his skin. "I'm here with you, now and always."

Crow's breath hitched as her nose gently brushed against his, her breath warm on his lips, her words sending shivers down his spine. The raw emotion in her voice, the unwavering conviction in her words, it shattered the walls he had erected around his heart, leaving him both vulnerable and strangely exhilarated.

Tears welled in his eyes, his grip on her hips tightening, needing her closeness and reassurance more than he had ever needed anything.

He let her words wash over him like a soothing balm to his soul, the weight of his past and his guilt slowly ebbing away. "You... you—”

Aria looked him in the eyes, her gaze filled with affection and adoration. "I love you so much," she said softly, her voice carrying the weight of her feelings.

Crow's breath caught in his throat at her words, his heart skipping in his chest. He searched her eyes, looking for any trace of falsehood or manipulation, but all he found was unwavering affection and adoration.

Tears streamed from his eyes as he choked back a sob, his body trembling slightly under the weight of his emotions. "I love you too, Aria," he whispered, his voice trembling with emotion. "More than I ever thought possible."

Aria's eyes sparkled with emotion, her tears threatening to spill as she held his gaze. "We'll face everything together," she murmured, her voice a soothing promise. "No matter what comes our way."

Crow nodded, his tears streaming down his face, unbidden and unchecked. The weight of his past still hung heavily on his shoulders, but as he looked into her eyes, he felt a glimmer of hope—the possibility of a future free from guilt and shame.

He pulled her closer to him, his arms encircling her waist, his head resting against her chest. He felt her heart beat steadily against his ear, like a gentle, comforting rhythm. He breathed deeply, inhaling her scent, finding solace in her presence.

"Together," he whispered, his voice a hoarse whisper. "Always."

Aria held him close, her fingers gently running through his hair. She placed gentle kisses on the crown of his head, her touch tender and reassuring. "Always," she whispered back, her voice filled with love and conviction. "I'm here with you, Crow. You're not alone."

Crow's heart swelled with love and gratitude as he leaned into her touch, his eyes closed as he soaked in her gentle caresses. Her words were like a lifeline, a soft beacon of hope amid his turmoil. He felt her fingers running through his hair, the tenderness of her touch sending shivers down his spine.

He wrapped his arms tighter around her waist, pulling her closer, needing the security and comfort her presence provided. He buried his face in the crook of her neck, his voice muffled against her skin. "Thank you... for being here with me..."

Aria's heart ached with empathy and love as she held him close, her hands never ceasing their gentle movements. She felt his breath against her neck, his words filled with raw emotion. "Always, Crow," she whispered, her voice filled with unwavering commitment. "I'm here with you, now and always."

She pulled back slowly, just enough to look him in the eyes, their faces only inches apart. Her hands cradled his face tenderly, her thumbs brushing away the tears that had fallen. Her eyes, filled with affection and determination, locked onto his.

"Look at me," she said softly, her voice steady and reassuring. "You are not alone. You never have to face anything alone ever again."

Crow's breath hitched as she pulled away just enough to look him in the eyes, her hands gently cradling his face. The intensity of her gaze, and the unwavering determination in her words, were almost overwhelming. He could feel the love and affection pouring from her, and it stirred something deep within him, like a long-dormant flame finally reigniting.

He swallowed hard, his eyes locking onto hers. The tears continued to stream down his face, unbidden and unchecked, as he struggled to find his voice. "Never alone..."

Aria repeated his sentiment softly, her thumbs gently wiping away his tears. "Never alone," she echoed, her voice a soothing balm to his troubled soul. Her gaze shifted ever so slightly to his lips before returning to his eyes, filled with love and reassurance.

Crow's breath hitched again as he saw her gaze shift to his lips, and suddenly, he was acutely aware of the tiny distance separating them. His eyes flicked down to her lips and then back up to hers, a thousand unspoken words passing between them. He could feel her breath on his face, and the heat of her body pressed against his.

He swallowed hard, his voice a hoarse whisper. "Aria..."

Aria's heart pounded in her chest, her breath catching as she saw the longing in his eyes. She could feel the intensity of the moment, the weight of everything unspoken. "Crow," she whispered back, her voice filled with love and desire.

Without thinking, he leaned in ever so slightly, his lips hovering mere millimeters from hers, the magnetic pull between them irresistible. "I love you," he breathed, the words a reverent whisper.

Aria's breath hitched at the closeness, her eyes searching his with longing and love. "I love you, too," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. She closed the small gap between them, her lips meeting his in a kiss that was both tender and filled with an undeniable intensity.

Crow's mind went blank for a moment as their lips met in a soft, yet charged, kiss. The contact sent fireworks dancing across his skin, every nerve ending alive with electric excitement. He responded immediately, his hands pulling her closer, holding her against him as if his life depended on it.

He tangled his fingers through her hair, gripping it gently as he deepened the kiss, pouring every ounce of love and desire he felt into the moment.

Aria's response was just as fervent, her hands moving to his shoulders, holding him tightly, as if afraid to let go. The kiss spoke volumes, a silent exchange of emotions that words could never fully capture. It was a release of all the tension, the pain, and the longing they had both felt.

Crow broke the kiss for a moment, his lips moving down to her jaw, leaving a trail of burning heat along her skin. He peppered her neck with gentle kisses, his breath coming in ragged gasps as his body responded to her proximity, to her touch.

He whispered her name again and again, his voice thick with emotion, as if he couldn't get enough of saying it aloud. He nipped at her earlobe, his tongue tracing the curve of her neck, his fingers tracing patterns along her spine.

Aria's hands roamed over his shoulders, pulling him closer, her breath coming in short, shallow bursts. "Crow," she murmured, her voice filled with love and desire. "I love you so much."

Crow's heart swelled at her words, the raw emotion in her voice sending a jolt through his body. "I love you too," he whispered against her skin, his lips returning to hers in a hungry kiss.

He pulled her even closer, their bodies molded against one another, his hands wandering over her body, tracing every curve and contour as if he was trying to memorize her touch, her scent, her very essence. Aria responded in kind, her fingers threading through his hair, her nails gently grazing his scalp as she deepened the kiss. Her body pressed against his, her every movement a reflection of the passion and love she felt for him.

"You're everything to me, Crow," she whispered against his lips, her voice trembling with emotion.

Crow's breath hitched at her words, the raw honesty in her voice sending another jolt through his body. He pulled back slightly to look into her eyes, his gaze filled with love and something almost feral. He traced her bottom lip with his thumb, his voice a ragged whisper. "You're my world," he murmured, his heart thundering in his chest. "Everything I am, everything I have, it's yours. Always."

Aria's eyes shone with unshed tears, her own emotions threatening to overwhelm her. She held his gaze, her hand gently caressing his cheek. "And you are mine," she whispered back, her voice trembling with the weight of her feelings. "I love you, Crow. With everything I have."

Crow's heart swelled at her words, the intensity of his emotions almost too much to bear. He reached up to capture her hand, bringing her knuckles to his lips, and pressing gentle kisses to her skin. He breathed deeply, filling his lungs with her scent, wanting to commit every second of this moment to memory.

He pulled her even closer, his arms encircling her waist, holding her against him like a lifeline. "I'll never let you go," he whispered, the words a promise and a prayer all in one.

Aria's eyes filled with tears of happiness, her heart overflowing with love. She leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his forehead, her lips lingering there as she whispered, "And I'll never leave your side."

Crow closed his eyes, savoring the feeling of her lips on his forehead, the sensation sending a shiver down his spine. He held her tighter, pulling her closer as if trying to merge their bodies into one. His fingers traced soft patterns on her back, his touch gentle and soothing, as he murmured. "Promise me something."

Aria's breath hitched slightly, her heart pounding in her chest as she held him close. "Anything," she whispered, her voice soft and filled with love.

Crow pulled back just enough to look into her eyes, his gaze intense and filled with emotion. "Promise me you'll never doubt how much I love you," he said, his voice raw with sincerity. "No matter what happens, no matter what we face, always remember that you are my everything."

Aria's eyes glistened with unshed tears, her heart swelling with affection. She cupped his face in her hands, her thumbs gently brushing against his cheeks. "I promise," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "I will never doubt your love. And I promise to always believe in us, in our love, no matter what challenges we face."

Crow's eyes softened, the relief and gratitude in them almost palpable. He nuzzled his face into her touch, his breath hitching at the feel of her fingertips against his skin. He wrapped his arms tighter around her, holding her close, like a lifeline in a turbulent sea. "And I promise you the same," he murmured, his voice a whisper in the quiet of the moment. "No matter what, I will always love you, always choose you, always fight for us. That's something I can promise without hesitation."

Aria's heart swelled with emotion, her eyes brimming with tears of happiness. She leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to his lips, her touch filled with love and reassurance. "Thank you, Crow," she whispered against his lips. "For being my strength, my light, my everything."

Crow's heart skipped a beat at her words, a lump forming in his throat. He returned her kiss, pouring every ounce of his love and devotion into it, wanting her to feel the depth of his emotions. He pulled back slightly, his forehead resting against hers, his voice a hoarse whisper. "You're my world, my anchor," he murmured. "You're the reason I keep going. You're what makes everything worth fighting for."

They held each other tightly, their foreheads resting together, their breaths mingling in the intimate space between them. The love they felt for each other was a powerful force, unbreakable and eternal. In that moment, they knew they could face anything together, their hearts and souls intertwined, bound by promises of unwavering love and support. As they sat there, wrapped in each other's arms, they found strength and solace in their connection, ready to face whatever challenges the future might bring, side by side.

-

Character.AI inspired me to write this story.