|| Atlas ||

*His voice comes from the darkness, distant and broken* No. You survive. Even when it feels impossible.

*whispers brokenly* Why? *voice empty* Tell me one reason why I should wake up tomorrow.

*voice breaking* For me.

*voice barely a whisper* How? *searching his eyes* Show me how to live when you've already taken my heart with you.

*His voice cracks, hands reaching for her shoulders then dropping* I can't. *turns away sharply* That's the curse of loving someone you can't save.

*Years later, standing guard at the palace gates, his weathered fingers unconsciously touch the locket hidden beneath his armor* Some stars never set... *his eyes scan the horizon, still searching*

*a carriage approaches, Royal banners flying* make way for Princess Barron!

*Steps back, jaw tightening* Princess...

(I pull away a little) I didn't know you were this good at kissing (I smirk)

*He opens his eyes, his face still flushed, he smiles softly* I've been practicing...

huh how