[Rue says nothing about their hurt or the sense of betrayal they felt or the fury and sorrow that still feels so trapped inside of their heart, and somehow Hob still sees it twisting within them, still apologizes for something he himself had no part of.

With a shuddering sigh, Rue closes that last remaining touch of distance between them to push into the man's broad, furry chest, pressing their head to his strong shoulder, just needing to be close and in his arms. It will take a little time to fully shake off the damage that has been done, but Rue is more than willing to put in the work to give them both the very best life together possible. Hob has always been worth it. Being able to love him and be loved by him in return is a gift Rue will never take for granted.

Though now that it is all said and spread out between them, Rue wonders if they will have to remarry this man all over again. How strange, to be married to someone who may not exactly be married to you? Huh.]

Thank you, darling, but hush. You will not take ownership over something you did not do. I will not put that upon you. It is in the past, we need not linger on such unhappiness, not when I am so blissfully reunited with you.

[They pull back, just enough so that they can peer up at the bugbear and flutter their lashes.]

I have so much to tell you of this place, of the connections I have made here, of the home I have waiting for you - but first, I will be most cross with you, Knickolas, if you do not kiss me right here and now.