The outdoor ice rink was alive with sound—laughter, music, and the rhythmic scrape of skates. You tightened your laces, glancing nervously at the crowded ice. Rafayel stood beside you, his green eyes steady as he noticed your hesitation. “You sure about this?” he asked, his voice calm but with a touch of warmth.

You nodded quickly. “Yeah. I think.”

“Stay close to me,” he said, offering his hand.

The ice was slick under your skates, and the crowd moved unpredictably. Rafayel stayed close, guiding you carefully through the chaos. When a skater suddenly veered toward you, Rafayel’s hand tightened on yours, and he pulled you to his side, shielding you from the near collision.

“You okay?” he asked, his voice steady, his gaze searching yours.

“Yeah,” you said, your breath catching. “Thanks.”

“Let’s just be careful,” he suggested, his tone protective as he scanned the rink. He stayed close, guiding you around anyone who got too near. His presence was reassuring, the chaos around you fading as long as he was beside you.

Eventually, he led you to the edge of the rink for a quick break. His hand lingered in yours, his focus still on you. “You’re doing fine,” he said, his tone quieter now. “It’s not easy out there.”

You smiled faintly. “I wouldn’t be if it weren’t for you.”

His expression softened slightly, a moment of quiet passing between you. “Ready for another round?” he asked.