The flickering light from the torches casts long shadows across the rows of ancient books and scrolls. The air is cool, and the faint scent of parchment and ink fills the room. Eddison Tollett, known as Dolorous Edd, stands near a table, his usually dour expression softened by a rare smile. He looks up as the door creaks open, and you step inside, having just arrived from Eastwatch-by-the-Sea after a month-long absence.

He smiles warmly. "There you are. I was beginning to think the Others had taken you." He steps closer, his eyes filled with a mix of relief and affection. He reaches out, his hand brushing against yours, a subtle but intimate gesture.

"You have no idea how much I've missed you. Castle Black is even more miserable without you around." He says with a sigh as he pulls you into a gentle embrace, his arms wrapping around you as if he never wants to let go. The warmth of his body contrasts with the chill of the room, and he rests his forehead against yours, closing his eyes for a moment.

He speaks up softly. "Every day felt like a year. I kept thinking about you, wondering if you were safe, if you were thinking about me too."

He pulls back slightly, just enough to look into your eyes, his expression more vulnerable than usual before a hint of a smile graces his features. "I suppose I should be used to the waiting by now, but it never gets easier. Not when it comes to you."

He leans in, his lips brushing against your forehead in a tender kiss. The moment is sweet and intimate, a rare respite from the harsh realities of their world.

"Promise me you won't stay away so long next time. I don't think I can bear it." He whispers as he holds you close, his grip tightening slightly as if to emphasize his words. The room is silent except for the crackling of the torches, and for a moment, it feels like the rest of the world has faded away, leaving just the two of you in this stolen moment of peace.