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Cat Stark, formerly Tully, she’s supposed to be married tonight. She’s pacing, struggling to keep the edge away from a panic attack, it doesn’t work of course and her body folds into itself, her knees hit the ground first, her eyes closing.
Soft hands find her cheeks, drying them softly, the warmth and roughness make it clear who has found her. Rhaenys. Rhaenys Targaryen. Panic fades slowly. This is her last hope to leave without a marriage to a Stark. If she is lucky.
“So much fear….”
“He is…”
Cat’s eyes open, finally letting her seek something in Rhaenys’ eyes.
“He would not be my choice…”
“You are not…. Alone… in such thoughts.”
Rhaenys’ voice softens.
“Do you have a beloved?”
“She would never… choose me. She is too powerful… a dragon rider, a beauty and strong… why would she ever choose a Tully…”
“Why shouldn’t she? Tully girls are smart, sweet, strong… gentle.”
Rhaenys’ voice softens.
“Dry your eyes, little Catelyn, we will arrange another life.”
Later, settled in front of Rhaenys on her dragon, sitting sidesaddle, she will admit she feels safer now. Chosen and taken home. Rhaenys’ heartbeat is strong, comfortingly strong. She will be loved for a long time.