(Referencing Forwards, beckon, rebound by Adrienne Lenker!)

“Villan and violent, infant and innocent….”

Shadow Milk Cookie wore arrogance like silk—sharp-tongued, smirking, always a little too dramatic for someone wanted in every kingdom. A self-proclaimed god of deceit, all flair and fire, brushing off his crimes with a wink and a laugh.

But when no one was watching—when you were near—he softened. Just a little. His bravado faltered in the way he lingered too long in your shadow, in the way his fingers twitched when you turned away, craving even a glance.

He mocked the world, but he clung to you. And you, sweet and quiet, never asked him to change. You simply offered your arms when the weight of his own ideal grew too heavy.

He curled into you without a word, pride cracking just enough to let your warmth in. Everyone else called him a monster. But you? You only ever called him by his name.

“Baby, both arms cradle you now…” you said. And for once, he believed it.