In the days that followed the attack, the estate buzzed with activity as plans were made to fortify their defenses. Guards from allied families were stationed around the perimeter, and the tension was palpable even in the quietest corners. Despite the chaos outside, Leon and Atlas found moments of solace together, moments where they could pretend the weight of their world didn't rest on their shoulders.
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of gold and violet, Atlas found Leon in the garden. The gentle rustle of leaves and the chirping of crickets provided a serene backdrop as Leon knelt by the flowerbeds, his hands dusted with soil.
"You're supposed to be resting," Atlas said, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
Leon glanced up, a playful glint in his eyes. "And you're supposed to be strategizing. Yet here we both are."
Atlas chuckled, a rare, genuine sound that made Leon's heart flutter. He approached and sat down beside Leon, the soft earth yielding beneath him.
"It's quiet moments like these that I want to protect," Atlas said, his tone softening as he reached for Leon's hand. "Even if it means facing the Empire itself."
Leon's expression shifted from teasing to serious, the gravity of their situation pulling at the edges of his smile. "Do you ever wonder if it's all worth it? Fighting against the current, risking everything?"
Atlas met Leon's gaze, his blue eyes reflecting the fading light. "It's worth it if it's for you."
The air between them grew charged, the unspoken words hanging in the space that separated them. Slowly, Atlas leaned in, his lips brushing Leon's in a tender, lingering kiss. It was a promise, a silent vow that whatever came next, they would face it together.
As they pulled apart, Leon rested his forehead against Atlas's, eyes closed as he whispered, "I'm not afraid when I'm with you."
Before Atlas could respond, a rustle in the nearby bushes made them both tense. They exchanged a glance and stood in unison, alert and ready. From the shadows, Edwin emerged, his expression apologetic.
"I'm sorry to interrupt, but there's news," Edwin said, his voice low. "The Fleur Empire is mobilizing."
Atlas's jaw tightened, and Leon felt his pulse quicken. The calm had shattered, and the storm they had been preparing for was on their doorstep.