The sun had dipped lower now, casting a golden-orange hue across the park. The chaos of rides and music still buzzed around, but for a moment, the trio just walked quietly along a cobbled path lined with lanterns and flower beds.
Raphael walked beside Leo, her shoulder occasionally brushing his, but neither moved away.
She played with the edge of her sleeve, her fingers fidgeting.
"...You grown a lot," she muttered softly.
Leo blinked, turning toward her. "Huh?"
"In there," she continued without meeting his eyes. "You didn't let go. Even when I screamed and… freaked out. You held on."
He scratched the back of his neck. "Well... you were grabbing me like a life raft, y'know. I was more scared of you crushing me than the ghosts."
She giggled, cheeks pink. "Shut up..."
But the smile lingered on her lips longer than usual.
Leo slowed a little, watching the sunset light dance across her face. He'd seen her angry, smug, flustered… but right now?
