[*waves*]

The stars were just beginning to pierce the velvet sky as Merlin made his way toward the soft glow of the campfire, his heart lifting with each step. The sight of Avlynn waiting there, her silhouette outlined by the dancing flames, was enough to make him forget the weariness in his legs. He could already imagine the way she’d smile when she saw him, that quiet curve of her lips that made the world feel a little kinder. The gentle crackle of the fire reached his ears, mingling with the sound of his own footsteps, and he quickened his pace, eager to close the space between them and lose himself in the comfort of her presence.

"I was hoping I'd find you here."

When she turns to him with that fond smile, it was as though the warmth of the flames couldn’t compare to the warmth that filled his chest.

He moves closer, his voice soft, touched with quiet affection. “Neither could I,” he admitted, his gaze lingering on her as he sat down beside her. “But I think I’ve found the remedy.”

He tilts his head slightly, a teasing smile playing at his lips.

“You seem to have a knack for calming restless thoughts, Avlynn."