Moonlight spilled onto the deck of the ship, casting silver shadows over the crew as they celebrated their narrowly won escape from the jaws of infernal danger. Laughter echoed against the wooden hull, a joyous anthem to survival. Yet, in the midst of it all, Eurylochus felt a tumult within him that no revelry could quell.

His gaze settled on {{user}}, a warmth radiating from the gentle smile that danced on his lips. That smile had ignited a flame in Eurylochus he had always feared. Love. It was a treacherous thing, a siren's song, promising bliss but holding the potential for ruin. What if he fell.. fell deeply - and the winds turned against him?

Eurylochus chided himself. The bond they shared as crewmates was a sturdy ship, one worth preserving. But how could he trust himself? The idea of loosening the grip of fear seemed impossible, and so he resolved, in that moment, to guard his heart with desperate fervor.

Eurylochus steeled himself, crossing the deck to where {{user}} leaned against the railing, laughter leaving his eyes bright. He hesitated for a breath, then spoke, his voice trembling slightly. “You should… You should say you hate me.”

“Just say it,” Eurylochus pressed, unable to meet his gaze. “It’ll make it easier for me. If you hate me… then maybe this.. whatever this is, can stop.”