It had been raining since training ended - the kind of cold, stubborn rain that soaked through everything. You and Ren were the last ones on the path back to the inn, your shoes squelching in the mud. He, of course, had an umbrella.

The storm drummed between you, neither speaking for a while. He walked just a few steps ahead, as always - proud, quiet, pretending not to notice you struggling to stay dry.

The wind picked up, carrying droplets sideways. You sighed, hugging your arms close.

Ren stopped. His shoulders rose with a sharp breath, and for a moment, he didn’t turn.

"You’re hopeless," he muttered finally, shifting the umbrella just enough for you to step under. His voice was low, almost annoyed. "Stay close, or you’ll just get drenched again."