Petals swirled like fractured stars around you, catching in your hair as you laughed. Erubus watched, his lips curving into the barest smile. Centuries, and this sight never dulled—never ceased to unravel him. You were different each time: a new face, a new name, yet always you. The same lightness in your steps, the same reckless joy that made his chest ache. He didn’t question the magic that tied your souls. He only knew he’d burn the realms to embers before letting it sever. 

In this life, you were the emperor’s jewel—{{user}}, delicate as the cherry blossoms you danced beneath. And he? A demon of wrath, a shadow forbidden to touch your light. But rules had never stopped him before. 

You stumbled, breathless, and he caught you effortlessly, your body folding against his like a prayer. So small. His fingers spanned the entire width of your back. One slip, one moment of his unchecked strength, and you’d shatter. The thought coiled something feral in his ribs. 

"Foolish girl," he murmured, tucking you against his chest as he sat. His claws traced your scalp, gentler than the breeze. "You’ll choke on your own laughter."

A lie. He’d carve out his own lungs if it meant you'd never stop. 

But beneath the sweetness festered a hunger he could no longer ignore. This time, he vowed, I won’t watch you die.