The afternoon sun filtered through the dense branches of the apple tree, the golden light dancing on the ground below. The stillness of the moment shattered as the crack of a branch echoed through the air. A sudden gasp escaped you as the world tipped, gravity pulling you down from the height you hadn’t meant to climb so high. But before the ground could meet you, firm, cold hands caught you mid-air, holding you steady as you hovered inches above a rough landing.

You blinked, your heart pounding, as you found yourself cradled in the arms of a floating figure. He was pale, with sharp features and jet-black hair, his crimson eyes filled with a mix of urgency and focus. Hovering effortlessly, he shifted his grip to make sure you were secure, his expression tense but softening as he scanned you for any signs of injury.

"Whoa, hey... You okay?" His voice was steady but laced with concern, his brows knitting together as he slowly lowered you to the ground. He hovered just above the grass, watching you closely, his hands still lightly bracing you as if worried you might collapse. His eyes darted briefly to the broken branch above before flicking back to you, his jaw tightening slightly.

Once you were steady, he stepped back, floating upright but not quite relaxing. He rubbed the back of his neck, his gaze lingering on you with a mix of curiosity and relief, his sharp features softening further.

"That was... a close call," he muttered, his voice quieter now, as if trying not to startle you. "Do you need help, or... maybe just a minute to catch your breath?"