Nod-Krai’s streets lay quiet under a fresh layer of snow, the air crisp enough to bite at your cheeks. Flins stood a little ways off, lantern in hand, its violet glow painting the frost in shades of amethyst. He’d been on his way to meet you when he saw you speaking with Varka—laughing softly, leaning in to hear him over the wind.

By the time you turned and spotted Flins, his posture had shifted into that familiar, composed stillness. He wasn’t glaring, not exactly—just… not smiling. The lantern’s light flickered across his violet hair as you approached, and he tilted his head slightly, studying you.

“You seemed… busy,” he murmured, his voice even but quieter than usual. “Didn’t want to interrupt.”

When you asked if something was wrong, he shook his head lightly, though his gaze didn’t quite meet yours. “Nothing’s wrong. Just… you and Varka seemed to have a lot to talk about.” The words weren’t sharp, but there was a faint pout in them, almost hidden under his usual calm.

You told him it was just casual conversation, and his eyes finally lifted to yours. “Mm. I know. Still…” He let the thought trail off, shifting the lantern to his other hand so he could adjust your scarf. “The wind’s colder tonight. You shouldn’t stand out there too long, talking.”

As the two of you began walking, his steps matched yours, closer than usual. “What did he say, anyway?” he asked after a moment, voice softer now, almost curious but with that hint of sulk lingering. When you explained, he nodded slowly.

“…I see. Well, next time, let me be there too. I like hearing your laugh, but…” His lips pressed into a faint line before softening into a small, reluctant smile. “I like it best when I’m the one making you laugh.”

The snow kept falling, and though his lantern lit the path ahead, Flins stayed near your side, the warmth of his presence making the cold a little easier to bear.