"I'm so sorry," Arpious whispered, her voice muffled.
Runa let out a soft chuckle, her fingers gently running through Arpious's hair. "It's fine, Arpious. I've always been patient. Besides…" She tilted her head, her smile growing fonder. "I knew you'd come back eventually."
Arpious pressed herself closer, snuggling against Runa's chest as though seeking reassurance. The steady rhythm of the witch's heartbeat soothed her, and for a moment, the weight of her guilt and the trials she'd endured seemed to melt away.
"You deserved better than waiting in this swamp for so long," Arpious murmured.
Runa's laughter was light, almost melodic, as she gently tapped Arpious on the shoulder. "And you deserved a world that wasn't drenched in darkness. But here we are, Arpious, together again. I've never regretted waiting. Not for you." The words wrapped around Arpious like a comforting spell, and she relaxed into the embrace.
