Draven was not able to say a word. All he could do was subconsciously nod his head.
"I'm glad." Avelina yanked him yet again into another hug.
Draven held her tightly. He loved it. He enjoyed the feeling it brought. The warmth, the peace, and the comfort—he had never felt it with anyone before. No one has ever hugged him so dearly before, not even his mother. His mother never got the chance to hold him in her arms in such a way. They were mostly separated by his father.
"Avelina…" he called.
"Hmm?" Avelina responded.
"Can we...stay like this a little while longer? It is okay if you don't want—"
"Absolutely." Avelina was beaming. "I will hold you for as long as you want."
Draven blinked his eyes and let out a soft breath. He inhaled and exhaled before relaxing in her arms. Never once has he felt this vulnerable before.
"Avelina…" His voice was gentle.
