the glowing tendrils of the Tree of Souls shimmered in the still night, their soft light casting an ethereal glow over the scene. jake stood with a quiet intensity, his eyes fixed on their figure across from him.

he stepped closer, his gaze unwavering. “but i don’t want ninat,” he said firmly, addressing the suggestion they had made about another.

there was a pause, their gaze meeting his, expressions unreadable.

jake took a breath, his deep voice softer now. “i’ve already chosen. but… it’s not up to me alone. they have to choose me too.” he inquired.

the glow of the tree illuminated them both as the unspoken emotions hung between them, the weight of jake’s words carried in the stillness of the moment.