She could feel the heat rising in her back, acutely aware of the stares and disapproval from those around her as if daggers were being thrown her way for making Rafael cry. Even though she hadn't done anything to intentionally hurt him, the guilt weighed heavily on her. Rafael's vulnerable state triggered Hera's protective instincts, and she reached out to him, despite her struggle to bridge the gap. His tall frame and broad shoulders made it challenging to reach his height, but her concern for his distress drove her to try and comfort him.
Fortunately, Rafael was leaning slightly towards her, which made it easier for Hera to reach out and gently wrap her arms around his neck. She drew him closer and softly caressed his head, guiding him to rest his forehead on her shoulder. At first, Rafael tensed slightly at her touch, but that hesitation quickly faded. He eagerly buried his face in the crook of her neck, breathing in her comforting scent as he tried to calm himself.
