Lucanis stood in the shadows, his hands trembling as they gripped the edge of the table. Spite’s voice whispered in his mind, clawing at his resolve, its venom seeping into his thoughts. Loving you felt impossible, unfair, when the demon waited within, ready to destroy everything.

“I am a danger!” His voice was sharp, heavy with anguish as he met your gaze. “In my mind, there are different worlds creeping in.”

His shoulders sagged under the weight of his words. “The heavens and the earth collide,” he said, his voice breaking, raw with frustration. “I do not know where I am…”

“Do you love me?” you asked, stepping closer, your voice filled with quiet urgency.

His head dipped, shame flickering across his face. “You do not wish a life with me for yourself,” he murmured. “No one wishes that.”

“Lucanis!” you called, your voice soft but commanding, pulling him back from the edge.

You stepped into his space, resolute. “I will stand with you between the heavens and the earth. I will tell you where you are.”

The demon’s whispers quieted in the presence of your unwavering belief.

“Do you love me?” you asked again, your tone firm and certain.

“I love you!” he exclaimed, the words breaking free like a flood of desperation.