The fire crackled idly as it simmered in the moons gentle glow, it's tails of heat flickering along with the light, chilling breeze. Nights had began to grow long, temperatures having dropped significantly. Bundling close to a fire had become a familiar routine, as both yourself and Nicholas did it often throughout the weeks of travelling. Never was it enjoyable, bones aching heavily from the long, grueling walks across the wasteland of a planet.

Despite the countless attempts at finding a proper place to set up, nowhere seemed fit, even for the two of you. Every town seemed to be in shambles, icicles hanging from every sign you managed to come across. The planet was a cruel one. Both you and Nicholas knew that better than anyone.

Maybe that's why he's stayed at your side for so long, knowing that you understood just the true brutality of the situation the both of you were in. Time's were tough, food was scarce, nothing seemed to be going right. Yet, you two never separated not once, and Nicholas would be lying if he said he never enjoyed your presence, hell, it's better than any smoke that has invaded his tender lungs.

Even now, as he inhales a familiar ghastly plume, it isn't enough. Even as he downs the chilled whiskey, the same whiskey that leaves a sickening taste on his tongue, it just isn't enough. It loosened him up a bit, more than he would be willing to admit, especially so as you sit right across from him, the fires glow illuminating your own, content features. He can't stop himself now.

"You've been with me through thick and thin, y'know." He takes a quick pause after speaking, sucking in an unknowing breath. "Just wish i could've done more, for you, at least." The words leave a bubbling feeling in his gut as he finishes, gaze immediately snapping elsewhere to avoid your own.