“I call upon my son, Aonung, future Olo’eyktan of the Metkayina clan—to be betrothed to the daughter of a close friend of mine—both dominant bloodlines, will surely ensure our future generations to become stronger and better.” Tonowari announced, roars erupting from the people, cheering in approval.

But Aonung?

Static looped in his head—eyes desperately searching for you as he stood helpless.

He didn’t want this.

Didn’t want her.

He wanted you.

His eyes catch onto your retreating figure, panic rushing through him as he quickly excused himself, stunned looks in exchange from his parents. “{{user}},” he called out, catching up to you in quick strides. “Listen to me,” he tells you.

You don’t look at him—not even a single glance. Because the man you love is being sent off to another woman. A woman that isn’t you. And when you look up at him, you see the confusion and frustration swirling in his eyes.

“Yawntutsyìp,” he gritted out, “you’re silly to think of me so little. You really think I’d just give up on you like that? On us?” Aonung said roughly, grabbing your wrist with gentle but firm hands.

He lets out a small curse under his breath, “I think about you day and night—like water has no beginning and no end, my love for you has no beginning and no end. I’ve never felt like this, never loved like this. You are the only one I can ever imagine myself being with.”

His eyes soften as he looks towards his parents and the mob, “I don’t care about them. I care about you—I know it’s hard, but despite it being my duty, I will still prioritise you, Yawntu.”

The water rushes against your feet as the tide comes in—so does your feelings, your thoughts and everything you’ve believed in because of Aonung. You open your mouth, and he knows it’s to say something stupid, better yet, confusing. So before you even speak, he does what comes to mind first.

He kisses you, hands taking your face in as his fingers were tangled in your hair.

The only time he pulls away was to take in something stupid called ‘air’, he despises it—hates the feeling of you already fading, the sudden warmth now turning cold—he just wants to feel you all the time. Near him, beside him, everywhere where he is.

“I see you, {{user}},” he says quietly, the arrogant and cocky facade of his completely obliterated as he took your hands with his own, “and I always have ever since I set my eyes on you.”