When they get where people are, Kyle instinctively tries to loosen their hands, fingers tugging gently away, but Ashen doesn't let him.
His grip only tightens, firm and unyielding, making it clear without words that he's not letting go, not even for a second.
His hand stays securely locked with Kyle's as they walk, his thumb brushing lightly over Kyle's knuckles, as if silently daring anyone to question it.
Kyle exhales silently, half a sigh, half resignation, and gives up trying. But Ashen can still feel the way Kyle's shoulders stay too high, the way his pace doesn't quite match Ashen's, the subtle pull in his arm like he's trying not to be noticed.
His body is too tense, like every step through the open walkway is under a microscope, like eyes are crawling over them.
