Rowen caught Vanessa just as she stumbled forward. For a moment, she didn't say anything. She just stayed in his arms, breathing in the familiar scent of him, letting the tension ease a little. When she finally looked up, her eyes were soft, tired, but clear.
"I wasn't going to come," she said quietly. "But I heard Tara's voice… and I couldn't stay away."
Rowen looked at her, no anger in his eyes this time. Just regret. "I shouldn't have raised my voice at you."
Vanessa shook her head. "You were scared. I was too. But Rowen… don't ever doubt my love for that girl. She's mine, even if people try to act like she's not."
Rowen nodded slowly, guilt written all over his face. "I know. I do. I just... I need to start trusting you more, not letting every word people throw get to me."
There was a beat of silence before he pulled her into a proper hug.
"Let's take care of her together," he whispered.
Vanessa smiled into his shoulder. "We already are."
**
