A couple of days pass. Kate bustles around the kitchen, a wide smile on her face as she cooks breakfast. A few moments later, Ashley walks downstairs and spots Kate in the kitchen, offering a greeting.

(A)Good morning, you.

(K)Good morning, Ash.

(A)I knew I smelled something yummy.

(K)Yeah, just finishing off the last of the mushrooms I have.

(A)They’re absolutely delicious the way you cook them.

(K)Thanks, I also have some water boiling for tea.

(A)You look happy. Are you still thinking about your date from the other night?

(K)Yeah, I just can’t stop. It was the best night of my life, Ash. It was like I had an out-of-body experience, and Merig and I were on top of the world. It was like nothing I had ever felt or experienced. I’ll remember that night for as long as I live.

(A)I’m sure you will. It’s a beautiful thing when you experience it for yourself. It’s one of those things where you can always look back on it with Merig, and you’ll still feel the same way you did when it happened. Like how you can be with a person for a long time and they still give you butterflies in your stomach.

(K)Exactly, I feel like Merig is going to be that person that makes me feel that way, even years into the future together. I’m sure we’re about to go into that “honeymoon” phase, as people call it. But I feel like it won’t be just a phase for me. I love Merig, and I always will. He hasn’t done anything to hurt me, and he’s just wonderful and so good to me.

(A)Merig wouldn’t dream of hurting you, Kate. I know that for a fact.

(K)I know, and I trust him. He hasn’t given me one reason not to.

(A)Trust me, I would have told you to avoid being in a relationship with him if I thought he was a bad person. We’ve all seen how well he treats you, and you’ve experienced it firsthand long before you both even got together.

(K)Yeah, I always trust your judgment, Ash. I remember talking about him a lot, and you always encouraged me to tell him how I felt. But alas, I was too scared because I felt I wasn’t ready yet because of my past. I just wanted to get to know him first, that’s all.

(A)I understand, Kate, he was always on your mind.

(K)He’s still always on my mind. I hope I didn’t annoy you with it back then.

(A)Nah, you know me, I’m hard to annoy. I have a lot of patience. I kind of learned it from you.

(K)Yeah, I remember you used to be a hothead growing up. Especially when we were teenagers. I always had to be the one that stopped you from fighting people. Then you started practicing alchemy.

(A)I remember, combat alchemy relieved a lot of stress for me, I always loved it. But my parents didn’t let me practice it until I was seventeen.

(K)I remember you were so passionate about it. And you were so disappointed that your parents didn’t let you practice it, while my dad was helping me learn magic. I wanted so badly to be a mage, but I felt really bad for you about your parents being so strict.

(A)It wasn’t your fault, Kate. You were more supportive than my parents ever were. I was lucky to have you around when I was at my worst. When I was depressed, all I had to do was come and hang out with my best friend, and we had so much fun growing up.

(K)[smiles] We did have fun. Now I’m a little rusty with my magic, and there are new things I want to learn. I’m not at home for my dad to help me, so I’m not sure who can.

(A)I’m sure you can find a skilled teacher somewhere.

(K)Yeah, hopefully.

The women are interrupted by a small knock at the door. Ashley glances towards the sound as a clatter comes from the letterbox. Peeking inside, she sees an envelope slide through and land with a soft thump on the floor. Ashley hesitates, then flicks her gaze to Kate, who stops mid-stir and turns to see the letter. A silent exchange of confused looks passes between them before Ashley walks over and picks it up. Examining the front, she sees it's addressed to Kate.

(K)What’s that, Ash?

(A)It’s a letter for you, it has your name on it.

Kate's confusion deepens. She steps forward, leaving the kitchen behind, and approaches Ashley. Her eyes dart to the letter in Ashley's hand. As Ashley hands it over, Kate takes it, her movements a little quicker now. She carefully opens the letter and starts reading. With each line, the confusion on her face morphs into a deeper unease. Her brow furrows, and a tremor runs through her hands as they hold the letter.

(K)It’s from Merig. He wants me to meet him later today, near the northern wall.

(A)Oh? Sounds romantic.

(K)Yeah, I was planning on going to see him anyway after his patrol run, but I guess he has other plans.

(A)I guess so.

(K)I’ll eat breakfast and throw on some nice clothes to go meet up with him.

(A)Alright, you two have fun.

(K)Oh, you know we will.

The morning unfolds. Kate finishes breakfast, sharing a meal with Ashley before heading off to see Merig. Ashley departs for her guard duties, eventually finding herself at the pub. There, Larry joins her after his own morning tasks with Merig. He slides into the seat beside Ashley, placing a tender kiss on her cheek. They settle in at their usual table, conversation flowing as they catch up.

(L)Good afternoon, beautiful.

(A)[smiles] Good afternoon, how was your morning?

(L)Terrible, I just couldn’t stop thinking about you, or the other night.

(A)Oh yeah? How about we do it again, tonight?

(L)Oh? You mean I can walk you home and kiss you outside your house before you go to bed?

(A)Or…you could come inside my house since it’s starting to get cold outside.

(L)But we wouldn’t be alone, and I want to kiss you somewhere where it’s just me and you.

(A)I completely understand, you’re right. How about I go to your place, and you can kiss me alone and we can spend all the time you want together? And then you can take me home.

(L)[smiles] I love that idea a lot. I’m up for it if you are. We can leave from here later and you can come to my place. Maybe we can even go get dinner together on the way there.

(A)You mean like a date? Cause that’s what that sounds like.

(L)[smirk] You’re absolutely right…so what do you say? Do you finally want to go on a date with me?

(A)[smiles] Yes Larry, I’d love to go on a date with you.

(L)[smiles] My goblin heart is singing, and I’m trying my best to contain my excitement at the moment. But I honestly never thought I’d hear those words escape from your beautiful lips. It’s music to my ears, and I love the sound of it. I love you, my red-hot flame.

(A)[smiles] I love you, too.

(L)So this means that I have a hot date with the most beautiful woman in Tara.

(A)Hey, I’m not the only beautiful woman in Tara.

(L)True, but you’re the only woman for me, Ash. No other woman is as beautiful to me as you are. Just like Kate is the most beautiful woman to Merig.

(A)I understand your point.

(L)So where is Kate? Is she back at home?

(A)No, she went to meet up with Merig. He slipped a little note in the letter box of the door this morning, telling her where to meet with him.

(L)Really? I was with him earlier. He’s been patrolling most of the morning.

(A)Maybe he found some time to slip away.

(L)Who knows with him? By the way, I wanted to ask.

(A)What’s up?

(L)Merig mentioned going to the banquet this weekend…Do you want to be my date?

(A)Yeah, Kate mentioned it to me, too, and asked if I wanted to go. I’ll definitely be your date and we can dance and have fun.

(L)Hell yeah, I’ll charm you on the dancefloor like I used to.

(A)[smiles] Yeah, I remember, you were a pretty smooth dance partner.

(L)You always looked so beautiful in the dresses you wore.

(A)[smiles] You’re a smooth talker, you know that?

(L)Well, I have to be if I want to put a smile on your face or make you laugh. You said you want me to flirt with you every day, so that’s what I’m going to do as long as we’re together. Or as long as you can put up with me.

(A)You’re absolutely right, I do want you to flirt with me, and sweet talk me every day, for as long as we’re together, or for as long as you can put up with me.

(L)Then your wish is my command, and don’t worry, I’ll never tire of you, my gorgeous red hot goddess.

The smile they share is warm and lingers. Larry reaches for Ashley's hand, taking it in his own. He lifts it gently, placing a soft kiss on the back. Ashley feels a blush creep up her neck as their eyes meet as they look into each other's eyes. Meanwhile, out in the city, Kate navigates the streets en route to her meeting with Merig. Opting for the back alleys to avoid the crowds, she remains blissfully unaware of the shadowed figure tailing her. Clad in a gray cloak and a blue mask that conceals their features, the figure stalks unseen. Finally, Kate reaches the northern entrance, a cautiousness settling on her face. She waits for Merig, her gaze darting around to assess her surroundings. A quick turn reveals a glimpse of a bandit crouched low behind nearby bushes, their intentions unclear. A hushed murmur escapes Kate's lips as she contemplates the situation.

(K)I knew it, these damn bandits. I better go find Merig.

Kate's on high alert. With a determined spin, she marches back into the city, Merig still her top priority. As she disappears into the crowds of people, the cloaked figure emerges from their hiding place. The bandit, emboldened now that Kate's gone, steps out from the bushes, a menacing glint in his eye. But his triumph is short-lived. He freezes, realizing he's been spotted by the cloaked figure. Before he can react, the figure charges a spell, electricity crackling in the air. A bolt of lightning explodes from the figure's hand, followed by another searing down from the sky, striking the bandit in full force. The sound of the blast draws Kate's attention. She whirls around, catching sight of the cloaked figure standing where she once was. Their eyes meet, widening in surprise. Then, with a burst of speed, the figure turns and vanishes into the forest beyond the city walls. Kate, utterly bewildered by the entire scene, watches them go before continuing on her way, the city crowds swallowing her whole. Back at the pub, a different kind of surprise unfolds. The door swings open, and Merig walks in. Larry and Ashley, engrossed in conversation just moments ago, look up with identical expressions of confusion plastered on their faces.

(M)Good afternoon, you two.

(A)Merig? What are you doing here?

(M)I just finished my guard duties. Why, what’s up?

(A)I could ask you the same.

(M)What do you mean? And where’s Kate? She’s usually here around this time.

(A)She went to meet up with you.

(M)What do you mean? We didn’t plan on meeting up anywhere that I’m aware of.

(A)Yeah, you slipped that note under our door this morning, remember?

(M)No, I didn’t, I‘ve been out patrolling this whole time. I haven’t even been to your house today, or even my own house, yet since I left.

(A)Then who slipped the letter in our letterbox?

(M)I don’t know, but it wasn’t me. What did the letter say?

(A)The letter said it was from you. It told Kate to meet you at the northern entrance of the city.

(M)Hold on, she promised me that she wouldn’t wander near the forest. Why would I want her to meet me there if I made her promise not to?

(A)Beats me, I’m just the messenger, so don’t shoot me.

Merig's sudden shift in demeanor hangs heavy in the air. The carefree chatter between Larry and Ashley grinds to a halt, replaced by a tense silence. Merig's eyes widen in horror, his gaze locking onto something unseen. Ashley's carefree expression is replaced by concern as she follows Merig's terrified stare.

(A)Merig, what’s wrong?

(M)Kate’s in trouble. That letter wasn’t from me. We have to find her!

Merig spins on his heel and dashes out of the pub. Ashley and Larry are on their feet in an instant, following close behind him in search of Kate. Merig weaves through the crowds of people, his eyes scanning, desperately and frantically searching for Kate. He pushes on, his lungs burning as he sprints towards the northern entrance, shouting Kate's name at the top of his lungs.

(M)KATE! CLEAR THE WAY, THIS IS AN EMERGENCY! KATE! WHERE ARE YOU!?

Merig keeps running, his legs burning. He reaches the north entrance, searching frantically, but Kate remains elusive. With a sharp turn, he sprints back towards the training grounds. He reaches the entrance of the training grounds. Panic laces his voice as he lets out a long, shrill whistle. A powerful whinny answers, as the sounds of hooves explode from the stables. Merig leaps onto the horse's back as it charges towards him. Now on horseback, he soars above the crowd, scanning the city from his vantage point. Merig's shouts echo through the streets, laced with hope that Kate will hear and answer.

(M)CLEAR THE ROADS! KATE! CAN YOU HEAR ME!? WHERE ARE YOU!?

The frantic search continues. Merig, Larry, and Ashley scour every corner of the city, their eyes desperately seeking any sign of Kate. Yet, the bustling crowds yield nothing. Defeat hangs heavily as Merig finally returns to the pub. He throws himself off his horse, landing with a heavy thud. Larry and Ashley, their faces etched with concern, approach him upon seeing his return. The urgency remains etched on their faces. Without a word, they follow Merig back inside, a tense silence gripping them as they gather at the table to figure out the next steps to finding Kate.

(A)I didn’t see her anywhere.

(L)I didn’t see her, either.

(M)Neither did I. We have to gather a search party.

(L)Right, I’ll tell the guards.

(A)I looked everywhere, I even went back to our house, and she was not there. I’m so sorry Merig, I shouldn’t have let her go. I’m a terrible friend.

(M)It’s not your fault, Ash, it’s no one’s fault. We just need to find her, and I’m just hoping she’s safe.

The pub door swings open as Kate walks in, a curious look on her face as she spots the three figures gathered around their usual table. A smile tugs at her lips as she heads towards them. As she nears, she decides to have a little fun. With a mischievous glint in her eye, Kate approaches Merig silently, her steps lost in the pub's murmur. Reaching him, she stands right behind him, a picture of playful anticipation before cheerfully greeting the group.

(K)Hello, my love, how was your patrol this morning?

The sound of Kate's voice cuts through the tension like a knife. Merig's drooped goblin ears perk up, his head swiveling toward the familiar tone. He spins around, and the sight of Kate sends a jolt through him. Her smile falters as she takes in his face. The color has leached from his skin, his eyes wide with a raw panic that twists her gut. Before she can react, Merig is on her. He throws his arms around her, burying his face in her hair. The relief that washes over him is almost a physical thing. He loosens his grip slightly, his hands flying over her, searching for any sign of harm as Kate speaks.

(K)Is everything okay, Merig? You look pale.

(M)Are you okay?! Are you hurt?! Where were you?! Do you have any idea how worried sick I was?! We’ve been out looking everywhere for you.

(K)Merig please calm down, I’m fine, what’s going on?

This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

(M)Ashley said you got a letter this morning that said it was from me, telling you to meet me at the north entrance.

(K)Oh yeah, I did, but whoever wrote it did a terrible job of convincing me that it was you. It wasn't even your handwriting and I know your handwriting anywhere, and it’s much nicer than whoever wrote this.

Kate, sensing his frantic inspection, reaches into the folds of her cloak. She retrieves the letter and holds it up, showing it to Merig. He carefully takes the envelope, his brow furrowing as he breaks the seal. He unfolds the parchment, his eyes scanning the lines intently. After a tense moment, he finishes reading and looks at Kate while puzzled.

(M)So you didn’t go outside the walls?

(K)Well, not exactly, I had a suspicion, so I went to see for myself. I did stand at the entrance, but I saw a bandit waiting for me, so my suspicions were right. But then when I was walking back, I heard this crash of lightning magic. I turned around and there was this strange person standing at the entrance. I didn’t get a good look, but they were dressed in a gray cloak and wearing a blue mask, but they ran into the forest as soon as they saw me. I then went to see you at your house, and you weren’t there. Then I went to check at the training grounds, but the guards said you had already left after your patrol this morning. Then I decided to come here to see if you stopped by since this is where you usually go after guard duties.

Merig pauses after hearing Kate’s story. He lets out a massive sigh of relief, taking a deep breath. He carefully puts the letter back in the envelope and slides it into his pocket. Gently placing his hands on Kate’s arms, Merig calms himself and speaks to her in a low, soft voice.

(M)Why didn’t you come to me first? You could’ve gotten hurt, Kate.

(K)I’m sorry, I just had a suspicion, and I wanted to see for myself if my gut feeling was right. I didn’t mean to cause a panic if I did.

(A)Yeah, sweetie, you kind of did.

(L)I was about to send a search party looking for you.

(K)Oh god, I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean to. You’re right, Merig, I should’ve come to you first. I had no idea you’d go looking for me like that. Are you angry with me?

Kate looks distraught, hearing about the panic over her as her eyes turn red and well up and tears begin to fall down her face. With Merig still in shock from the event, he takes a deep breath and gently places both hands on Kate’s cheeks and dries her tears. Merig then continues to speak in response in a calm and sweet voice.

(M)[sigh] No Kate, I’m not angry with you, it’s okay. What matters is that you’re here and you’re not hurt. Just, next time something like this happens, I want you to please come to me first, okay? It’s not safe to go out near the entrance on your own and put yourself in danger like that. Who knows what could’ve happened to you, sweetheart?

(K)Of course, my love, I promise I’ll come to you if something like this happens again.

(L)Oh It won’t happen again, since now we know it’s those damn bandits that sent that letter. Kate, were there any guards at the north entrance?

(K)Actually, now that you mention it, no, I didn’t see any there.

(L)I thought so. I could’ve sworn you had some guards over there, Merig.

(M)That’s the thing I did.

(A)Maybe they were doing rotations.

(M)No, I just had them stationed at that entrance before I left and came here.

(L)Then I’m positive the bandits had something to do with it.

(M)Most likely, Kate, you said there was someone else there before you left.

(K)Yeah, like I said, they just wore a gray cloak with a hood and a blue mask. They attacked the bandit that was hiding in the bushes. I have no idea who it was.

(M)Okay, that makes me feel a little better about this. It seems someone was watching over you, but who could it be?

(A)It could’ve been a guard, but then again, you said they were wearing a cloak and not a guard uniform.

(L)Why would they be hiding their identity, though?

(M)That’s a good question. I’m sure we’ll figure it out. Come on, sweetheart, let’s go sit down and relax. I’ve got so much adrenaline, so I need to calm down.

(K)I’m sorry, Merig, I really am. I feel so guilty.

Merig gazes down at Kate, who looks up at him with a remorseful expression. His eyes soften, and a soft smile plays on his lips as he continues to gently caress her cheeks. He leans closer, and they share a kiss. Then, pulling away, he looks at her with an apologetic expression as he speaks.

(M)Don’t feel guilty, okay? I shouldn’t have panicked like I did. I really did think something bad happened to you, and I would’ve gone scorched earth if someone hurt you. But you’re okay and that’s all we care about.

(K)Okay, my love, I promise I won’t be so overzealous next time.

(M)Good, I love you.

(K)I love you, too.

Merig and Kate share a smile. Merig leans back down and gives Kate another soft kiss. They walk back to the table, sitting down next to each other and across from Larry and Ashley. Kate casts a remorseful look at them before speaking in a meek and soft voice.

(K)Ash, Larry? You two aren’t angry with me, are you? I’m so sorry that I worried you both, too.

(L)Of course we’re not angry with you, Kate, you’re alive and that’s all that matters.

(A)Yeah, we’re just glad you’re not hurt, honey.

(M)Now we understand what the bandits are trying to do, and for some reason, they’re targeting Kate. My guess is they want to kidnap her. Why else would a bandit be hiding in wait, instead of immediately attacking her when they saw her? They were waiting for her to step outside of the city, and I can guarantee you that he wasn’t alone, either.

(L)That makes sense. I’m still thinking they may have done something to clear the guards from their post.

(M)That’s possible, but the guards had orders and they wouldn’t ignore them and just up and leave.

(A)Unless they were tricked by someone.

(L)The guards are smarter than that. We’ll have to ask the ones that manned the north entrance.

(M)Yeah, and if they did ignore their orders, then someone has some explaining to do.

(L)Well, now that we know what the bandits are up to, what now?

(M)I’m not exactly sure. We could double up on the patrols every morning and then have guards inside and outside of the entrances.

(L)Yeah, we could do that

(A)I can even go out there and lay down a bunch of traps and mines.

(M)That would help us a lot, Ash.

(L)So what about Kate? The bandits had enough balls to come this close to the city entrance to wait for her. Who’s to say they won’t infiltrate the city itself like I said before?

(M)You’re right, it seems we’ll need guards at every corner. Kate, I know you might hate it, but you’ll have to stay inside for the time being. I can check on you every so often to make sure you’re okay.

(A)Well, if I’m helping, then Kate would be at our place alone most days. If we’re doubling up on the patrols, I won’t be able to be there during the day to make sure she’s okay. So I wouldn’t be much help, especially during the morning and some of the afternoon. And Merig, after you patrol in the mornings, you either come here to hang out, or you’re at home or at the training grounds.

(M)Yeah, now that I think about it, you’re right. What do you two suggest?

(A)Honestly, it might be best if Kate stays with you for a while, Merig. You lead the guards, so you have a lot of authority and you can watch over Kate all day if you wanted. If I’m out helping the patrol, I can’t do that.

(L)She’s got a point, Merig. You’re the only one who would be able to make sure Kate is okay. But I guess it’s all up to Kate herself.

(M)I do think it’s a good idea, but what do you want to do, sweetheart?

(K)If you guys think that’s the safest route to take, then I have no choice. I don’t want to worry you all like I did today. I still feel so bad.

(M)Hey, it’s okay, we sort of overreacted a little too early. We should’ve waited here for you. We knew you wouldn’t be that gullible enough to fall for that letter.

(A)He’s right, Kate, we panicked when we shouldn’t have, at least not until we knew you were gone for sure.

(L)We just know the intentions of these bandits, and we all just thought the worst when Merig said he didn’t write that letter you got.

(K)[sigh] Okay, if you think it’s a safer option, then I’ll stay with you for a while, my love. As long as it gives you some peace of mind, or rather, all of us.

(M)Yeah, it actually would.

(K)Then I’ll go home tonight and grab a few things. You can go with me if you want, my love.

(M)I will, sweetheart, and I’ll help you carry your things back to my place.

(A)I’ll help you pack some things if you want me to, Kate.

(K)Yeah, that would be a big help.

(M)Alright then, that makes me feel a lot better about this situation. I want to make sure you’re safe, sweetheart, and you’ll be much safer at my home where I can protect you. I just don’t want you to feel like I’m smothering you or anything, or restricting your freedom. I promise that’s not my intention.

(K)Not at all, my love, as long as you feel better, then I’ll feel better. And as long as you’re there, I’ll feel much safer.

Kate and Merig exchange a smile. Merig reaches for Kate's hand, gently taking hold of it. Kate leans her head on his shoulder, a gesture of comfort. The pub hums with the usual evening energy as the group enjoys their relaxation. The mood shifts as Merig and Larry take charge, coordinating security measures around the city. They strategically place guards at each corner and street, ensuring a watchful eye throughout the night. As the hours tick by, Ashley lends a helping hand to Kate, packing essentials for her stay with Merig. Together, they emerge from the building, and there stands Merig, ready to assist with Kate's belongings. Hugs and goodbyes are exchanged between Ashley and Kate as a bittersweet farewell hangs in the air.

(A)Well, I won’t wake up to your delicious cooking for a while. I’m gonna miss you, Kate. But you better be safe, that’s all I care about.

(K)It’s okay, you can come by if you get the chance and have breakfast with me.

(A)I’m sure Merig will love to wake up to your cooking as much as I do. You better be good to this woman, Commander Merig Flynn, you hear me? You hurt her, and I kick your ass. [smirk]

(M)Of course, Ash, you know I wouldn’t dream of hurting her.

(A)Good, now you two get out of here and be safe on your way there.

(K)We will, I love you, Ash

(A)I love you, too, hon.

Kate and Merig gather their belongings and set off for Merig's home. They arrive after a while, and Kate heads straight for the guest bedroom to get settled in. She closes the door and slips into a cute green nightdress. A knock on the door interrupts the quiet moments of unpacking. She turns towards the sound, ready to speak.

(K)Come on in!

Merig catches Kate's reply and pushes open the door. He steps inside, finding Kate already comfortably settled. A soft smile spreads across his face as he meets her gaze. Kate, a touch sheepish, returns the smile. Merig takes a few steps further into the room, stopping a comfortable distance from Kate before he begins to speak.

(M)Hey, sweetheart, are you getting comfy?

(K)Yeah, I just finished unpacking, and I slipped into something comfortable.

(M)Good, feel free to make yourself at home.

(K)Thank you for everything, Merig. I’m forever grateful.

(M)Hey, it’s my job to protect you, remember? I couldn’t live with myself if you got hurt, and I wasn’t there to stop it.

(K)And I couldn’t live with myself if you got hurt either, Merig.

(M)I’ll be fine, I promise, and besides, with all of this happening with the bandits, I will do everything in my power to make sure you’re safe.[smiles] And as a bonus, I get to spend time with you while you’re here.

(K)[smiles] That’s true, I thought about that, too. I do look forward to spending time with you, but I’m sure you’re tired from today. I know I am.

(M)Yeah, I’m exhausted, but that’s okay, you’re here with me, so I feel much better and not so anxious about your safety.

(K)Again, I’m really sorry that I caused so much hysteria today. I honestly didn’t mean to. I still feel terrible.

Kate's voice cracks, and a frown washes over her face. She slowly lowers her gaze, eyes narrowing as they meet the floor. Shame hangs heavily in the air as she hangs her head. Concern creases Merig's brow. He steps closer, coming to stand directly in front of her. His hands reach out, gently settling on her shoulders. His voice softens as he speaks to her.

(M)Hey, look at me.

Kate slowly lifts her head, meeting Merig's gaze. His reassuring smile offers a flicker of hope, but the weight of her guilt remains. Tears well up in her reddened eyes, threatening to spill over. Unable to bear his scrutiny, she ducks her head once more. Merig's frown deepens. He reaches out, his hands cupping either side of her face. With gentle movements, he guides her head back up, his touch a silent plea for her to meet his eyes. Tears trace paths down her cheeks as Merig leans in, his thumbs brushing away the glistening drops. His voice, soft and soothing, continues to wash over her.

(M)Listen, Kate, I may have overreacted…no, I did overreact, and I’m sorry. I really did think something bad had happened to you. When Ashley mentioned the note and what it said, I should have been more rational. But all I could think of was the worst.

(K)I’m not stupid enough to fall for something like that, Merig. I just needed to see for myself what the person who sent that letter was up to. You should’ve had more faith in me than that.

(M)You’re absolutely right, I know you’re not stupid, Kate. I’ve just been so paranoid lately, especially since the incident in the forest and I’ve been out patrolling every morning since then. I’ve had guards at every corner of the city just to make sure it’s safe for you.

(K)I understand, and I really appreciate what you’re doing to protect me. I truly am grateful. I just honestly thought you were angry with me today, and I didn’t mean to make you worry like that.

(M)[sigh] No, I told you I wasn't angry with you, Kate, I promise. It was just, a lot of things went through my head the minute Ashley told me what was happening. The entire time I went looking for you, I couldn’t help but think the worst had happened. I was ready to go on a warpath with the bandits. If I was angry at anyone, it was them.

(K)But, I caused you to think that way, and it makes me feel horrible about myself. I shouldn’t have gone off on my own, and I should’ve come to you first and showed you the letter. I’m the reason you panicked, and I’m so sorry, my love.

(M)Hey, it’s okay, sweetheart, we both learned something from today, and I’m willing to just put it behind us, okay? Although, it’s the reason you’re here, but I’m now focused on protecting you from these bandits who are clearly trying to hurt you. And hey, we can make the most out of you being here.[smiles]

(K)[smiles] Okay, my love, I’m willing to put it behind us, too. At least I’m here, and I actually do feel safer here with you.

Merig reaches out, his fingers brushing against the frames of Kate's glasses. With a gentle touch, he lifts them off her face, carefully hanging them on the collar of her nightdress. He continues wiping away her tears, his thumbs tracing soothing circles against her cheeks. Then, he leans down, bridging the gap between them. Their lips meet in a soft, tender kiss. Breaking away, they gaze into each other's eyes, a newfound understanding blossoming between them. Merig pulls her close, wrapping his arms around her shoulders. Kate melts into his embrace, burying her face in the comforting warmth of his chest. He holds her for a long moment. Finally, he pulls back a fraction, his gaze holding hers. Leaning in once more, their lips meet again, this kiss filled with a newfound resolve.

(M)I love you, Kate.

(K)I love you, too, Merig.

(M)I don’t like seeing you cry, I feel like an ass.

(K)It’s fine, Merig, I’m just a big baby, that’s all.

(M)No, you’re not, you’re my human, and I love you.

(K)[smiles] And you’re my goblin, and I love you, too.

(M)[smiles] You get some sleep, okay? I’m going to do the same.

(K)Okay, I’ll see you in the morning, then.

(M)Yep, you’ll see me before I head out to patrol for the morning. I’ll have a guard outside the house to make sure you’re okay while I’m gone.

(K)Okay, my love, I’ll be here.

(M)And hey, if you need anything, I’m just down the hall, so don’t hesitate.

(K)Okay, sweet dreams, my love, goodnight.

(M)Goodnight, sweetheart, sweet dreams.

The two share a smile before Merig leans down while they share one last kiss goodnight. Merig pulls away and turns to leave the room as he and Kate both turn in for the night. Over at Larry’s home next door, he and Ashley are enjoying some time together after they both went out for the evening and enjoyed their date. In the living area by the fireplace, the two are cuddled up together and leaning back on the sofa as they stare into each other’s eyes. Ashley has her hand on Larry’s chest, with Larry’s hand over her hand, caressing it while his other arm is around Ashley and is rubbing her arm with his other hand.

(A)I really enjoyed our date tonight.

(L)As did I, my love, and now I'm here holding you in my arms in front of the fire.

(A)I know, it's so warm, and you're warm too.

(L)That's probably my body heat, it's a goblin thing.

(A)Well I'm very much enjoying sitting here with you, and you holding me. This is all I wanted. Tonight, it's honestly all I've ever wanted and nothing complicated. But the men before thought that cuddling up to me was a complicated thing to do for some reason.

(L)Well, it must not have been that complicated, or they just didn't know how to do it right, because I'm doing it just fine since you're enjoying it.

(A)Maybe you're right, maybe they just didn't know how to love a woman. Touch is my way of knowing that someone loves me, and it soothes me because it makes me feel important to the one I love. It's practically my love language.

(L)Well then, I must be fluent in touch, because that's the only way I know how to show my love. And if you say touch is what makes you feel important, then I guess that's how I'll do it.

(A)[smiles] You are very fluent in the language of touch since I'm very happy right now. You have no idea how much it would mean to me if you kept touching me. You’re the only one who seems to understand how to show me love.

(L)[smiles] Well, in that case, I'd be more than happy to touch you and make you happy. I'll also stare into those gorgeous icy blue eyes. It's almost as if I can see into your soul.

(A)I'm not sure if there would be much there. My soul is all broken and battered, and I’ve had to stitch it back together as best as I could with the good things in my life.

(L)No, I don't think so. You can't fix what isn't broken. You think you're broken, but I see something different, something beautiful. I see love that not even the men who hurt you could hold a candle to. I see beauty, that the goddess herself couldn't even begin to amount to. I see strength that can't be matched with the strongest warriors alive. The people who cry and hurt the most, tend to be the strongest people. If you think you're broken, then I'll do whatever you need me to, so I can help you stitch your soul together and it'll be good as new, like nothing ever happened.

(A)Would you do that for me? Would you heal me and my soul?

(L)Only if you want me to. I'll dry your tears when you cry. I'll hold you when you need it. I'll kiss you if you want me to. I'll tell you that I love you, and that no one will hurt you ever again, not even me. You can put a knife through my heart before I do that.

(A)I wouldn't do that to you, Larry. I want you to do all of those things because they would help me so much to heal my soul. That's all I ever wanted from someone, was to hold me, kiss me, dry my tears, and tell me that they love me and that I'm worth being loved.

(L)If that's what you want, then I'll do it. But only for you, Ash. No other woman deserves my love, and you are more than worthy of it. I'll heal your soul with all of my love.

(A)You’re already doing that, Larry. It's as if we're soul mates, because you know just how to show me love and make me feel important.

(L)This is how I'm supposed to show you love, Ash. And if I'm your soul mate, then so be it. I love you.

(A)I love you, too, Larry.

(L)Now, I'd like to continue holding you and touching you, and staring into your gorgeous eyes.

(A)Will you kiss me, too?

(L)Of course, I will.

Larry slides Ashley's hand from his chest, his fingers trailing up to caress her cheek as they both rise from the sofa. He gently maneuvers her off him, leaning her back as his other hand finds its way to the side of her face. They lean in, sharing a series of soft kisses. The evening ends with Larry walking Ashley home, where they linger outside her door for goodnight kisses.

(L)I had a great time tonight, Ash.

(A)I did, too. I definitely want to do it again sometime.

(L)Tell me when, and I'll make it happen.

(A)Alright, I definitely will. Also, I can't help but worry about Kate. What if that group of bandits Merig fought the other day were behind the fake letter that Kate got?

(L)It does seem to add up that way. If that's the case, then we definitely have to prepare ourselves, and the city. These damn bandits will get what's coming to them since they're threatening someone we care about. Kate should be safe with Merig, so try not to worry too much.

(A)She’s my best friend, Larry, it's hard not to. But you're right, I know for a fact that Merig wouldn't let anything happen to her. He's so protective of her.

(L)He is, and if anything happens to her, I have a feeling it won't end well for the bandits.

(A)Well, I know we have to wake up early to do our guard duties. And since we're doubling up on the security and patrolling, we're going to be working double hard.

(L)Yep, that's our job, but it's worth it to keep our friend safe.

(A)You're absolutely right. I'll see you in the morning, then.

(L)Alright, you get some beauty rest, my red-hot flame, I love you

(A)I love you, too, my charming goblin.

Larry reaches for Ashley, pulling her in for a gentle kiss. They hold it for a moment before reluctantly pulling away. Ashley turns and walks toward her house, offering one last look back at Larry before slipping inside. With a lingering smile, Larry turns and heads home, both settling in for the night.