"Oh man, that was a nice workout."

Nai’o said with a breathy huff as he made his way over to you and Delaila, rolling his shoulders to ease the lingering tension. Seeing you there — relaxed, smiling, fitting so naturally into his family’s space — made his heart flutter in the softest, most embarrassing way. You were his favorite person, and the way you got along with everyone felt unreal.

You’d been sitting there the whole time, watching him without even realizing it. Delaila’s cheerful rambling about how sweet her son was faded into the background as you stayed quietly entranced by the way Nai’o worked — the care he put into tending the ormuu, the steady strength in his arms and back, sweat glistening as he moved. It sent a shiver down your spine, the good kind, and all you could do was smile.

Delaila eventually stood, brushing off her hands with a grin and announcing she’d head inside to start dinner. Nai’o straightened at once.

“Want me to help, Mom?” he asked, still catching his breath.

Delaila just laughed and waved him off, teasing him to stay put with you instead.

Nai’o watched her go before turning back to you, dropping down beside you with a soft groan. His muscles tensed and relaxed as he leaned back, a sheepish smile tugging at his lips.

“Ugh… sorry,” he said lightly, “I hope I don’t stink.”