The path beneath your feet had long disappeared into tangled roots and loose gravel. The fading light filtered through the trees, casting long shadows as you stumbled over an uneven patch of earth. Tenya was a few steps ahead, his hand brushing yours before he turned abruptly.

“This isn’t good,” he said, his brow furrowing as his glasses slipped down his nose. He pushed them up with a sharp motion, eyes scanning the dense forest. “We should’ve reached the campsite by now.” His mouth pressed into a thin line. You stepped closer, heart hammering in your chest when the distant sounds of the forest—rustling leaves, chirping insects—became louder in the quiet. Tenya’s gaze softened when he noticed your hesitation.

“Stay close,” he murmured, stepping toward you. His hand hovered near yours before he clasped it, fingers curling around your palm. His grip was steady, reassuring despite the tension in his shoulders. “We’ll find the way back. I promise.”

The two of you walked in silence, his steps careful as he led the way. Every so often, he’d squeeze your hand as if making sure you were still there. The path sloped downward suddenly and you stumbled. His arm shot out instantly, catching you against his chest.

“Careful,” he breathed, holding you for a moment longer than necessary before setting you back on your feet. His hand lingered on your wrist before he let go. His cheeks were faintly pink. “Are you all right?”

You nodded, but he didn’t seem convinced. He sighed, hand raking through his dark hair. “I shouldn’t have taken us this far.” His jaw tightened. “It’s my responsibility to make sure you’re safe.”

The last of the sunlight bled from the sky, leaving a pale haze in its place. Tenya took off his jacket and draped it over your shoulders without a word.

“We’ll rest here,” he said. His thumb brushed your knuckles when you sat down beside him. He glanced down at your intertwined hands, expression softening.

His voice dropped to a quiet murmur. “I won’t let anything happen to you.”