The sky rumbled, discord hovering about in the air. It was like the Salem was laughing at them both. The weather was enough to soak them with ease, but they still didn’t let go of each other. In a rare moment of openness, Yang decided to be more honest with how she felt.

”I don’t want you to go”

Jaune pulled her close with a sigh, tears hidden in the rain. The war against the grim had gotten worse, and hunters were sparse. Maybe in another world he’d have stayed, he wouldn’t have gone back to his family to make sure they’d be safe.

Maybe he’d stay with her instead. He hesitated, before slowly running a hand through her hair, something she would’ve hurt him for recently. Not anymore though.

”I’m sorry.”

And he started to leave her, regret filling his heart. He could still hear her quiet sobs in the air.

No.

Clenching his fist, he turned back and pulled her close again.

His family would forgive him of his selfishness, just this once. It’s not like he asked for much before.

He threaded his finger through hers, and they walked back to the others. A metal grip tightened around his own, holding his arm close.

He wouldn’t let himself lose her. Not like he lost Pyrrha...

An Arc’s promise, he thought, was well worth the smile that blossomed on her face.