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Jaskier was unusually quiet. Even during his tale of what that man had done to him, he had been brief and concise. You didn’t blame him, but you couldn’t stop yourself from staring at him in concern.
“Are you alright?” You asked, even though you knew the answer.
“You don’t have to worry about me” Was Jaskier’s simple response. He still avoided your gaze, like he had been ever since he reunited with you.
“I’m always worried about you” Although gently, you turned his head until your eyes finally locked. “I care about you, don’t I?”
Jaskier didn’t say anything, he only pursed his lips. There were tears in his eyes that he refused to shed. You frowned at the sight, wishing you could help him further.
“I’m fine” He assured, even if the trembling of his voice told you otherwise. “What matters is I didn’t tell him anything”
You watched him in silence, and he averted his gaze from you once more.
“Then again, I didn’t know anything” Jaskier let out a fake chuckle. “I wouldn’t have told him even if he was a pretty lady trying to woo me”
“Jaskier...” You tilted your head at him and made a pause, earning his reluctant attention. “You wouldn’t have told him even if you did know”
“Of course not...”
“I know”
He sighed, delicately pinching your cheek in an loving gesture. Despite it all, he now showed you a genuine smile.
“You’re the only one that understands me…” Jaskier sweetly watched you, stroking your cheek still. “The only one that... that sees the truth behind my jokes”
“I know you, Jask” You playfully grinned even as you leaned into his touch. “I can see through your bullshit”
He laughed, a wonderful sound that seemed to erase any tension lingering in the air. Without needing any more words, the two of you moved together. Whether it was him seeking your comfort or you ready to provide it, you both melted in a tender embrace. Jaskier sighed against your shoulder, squeezing you tight.
“I’m so proud of you, Jaskier”
“For what?”
“For...” You paused, lingering on the hug. “For being strong, for being brave, for... for being loyal despite it all”
He broke away just enough to be able to look into your eyes. Emotion drowned his, yet a small smile appeared on his lips nonetheless.
“Thank you, Y/N” And he hugged you again, holding you even tighter.