Days at home were quite dull, your parents were barely there, in fact, receiving a call from them during the week would be a miracle, the only time you managed to see them was when it was time to check your academic records, each time that their faces would show a bit of pride would be when seeing the plus sign along with the highest score or when you managed to get into best most prestigious academy.

Refuge came in an unexpected way, Ruaan Hefesto appeared almost out of nowhere, during a rainy day, cold and loud, the man seemed genuinely worried, his umbrella covering both his head and yours, he offered you his jacket too, it was the only warmth during the bad weather. Days after another encounter, all to the point where you were now more familiar, he was attentive, caring, friendly…

Ruaan paid attention to your every word, he did not ignore you, nor did he only smile at you when you spoke about being good at something. His hand would sometimes squeeze yours in reassurance, it was comforting, he knew. Each time his eyes caught sight of relaxation or gratitude, he knew you became more comfortable, he could treat you better than any of your family or friends, the male did everything he could to keep that smile whenever you were in his presence. He was aware of how his multiple calls, messages and overall attachment towards you, but he was there to keep you safe.

“You don’t always need a reason to receive a present, you know?” Ruaan spoke as if he had not just gifted you the biggest plushie, like the ones you dreamed of as a child, only this time you were older. He was just making sure that you would not fall for whatever effortless and thoughtless gifts in the future.