Archive of Our Own

Callum wanted to marry her, he was sure of it. He’d known from the moment he’d kissed her again at The Starscraper. Known it after every brush with death, every time her smile lit up the dark corners of his heart. And now, with both of their 18th birthdays behind them and the war dragging on, he couldn’t shake the feeling that the time was right. The battle against Aaravos had shown no signs of stopping, even though the archmage was somehow weakened. Callum didn’t understand it—it didn’t add up. But he wasn’t about to question their good fortune.

They had elves, Archdragons, and other allies at their side—a formidable force in their own right. Aaravos, for all his power, seemed to rely more on his followers than on his own strength. The thought of waiting any longer, of letting another moment slip by, weighed on him. As much as he tried to be optimistic and hopeful, this war had taught him that nothing was guaranteed. In a world where they had to fight to see the next sunrise, he didn’t want to risk another day without taking this step.

He couldn’t bear the thought of looking back and regretting not seizing the moment, not telling Rayla how much she meant to him, not making her his forever.

Though this would prove easier said than done. 

Callum had long decided that her parents’ opinions didn’t matter when it came to this. He was going to marry Rayla whether they approved or not. But, for her sake, he wanted to at least try to get Lain and Tiadrin’s blessing. Runaan, however, was another story. Callum had no intention of telling him until after the fact.

He decided to start with Ethari. He found him among several other Sunfire elves in the forges, hammering out weapons and armor. The forge was hot, and the air thick with the smell of burning metal. Callum caught Ethari’s eye and motioned for him to come over. Even if their conversation was drowned out by the pounding of anvils and the hissing of steam, he wanted a bit of privacy.

Ethari approached with a welcoming smile. “What can I do for you, lad?”

Callum took a deep breath, glancing away for a moment, before meeting his gaze again. This wasn’t just a request—it was almost a declaration, a quiet but firm order.

“I need you to forge a ring and a pair of horn cuffs for me,” Callum said, keeping his voice as steady as possible.

Ethari blinked, surprised for only a moment before a broad smile spread across his face. He clapped Callum on the shoulder warmly. “Very well, son. I must say I’m not surprised. I’d be honored.”

Callum couldn’t help but return the smile, a weight lifting from his chest. Ethari’s approval meant more to him than he realized, and hearing those words gave him a surge of reassurance.

“Thank you,” Callum said earnestly.

Ethari nodded, a glint of understanding in his eyes. “I’ll make sure the ring and the cuffs are perfect. Rayla’s a special one, and I’ve seen the way you look at her. You’re ready.”

“I am,” Callum agreed softly, his mind briefly drifting to Rayla. “I’ve known for a while now.”

Ethari’s gaze softened, and for a moment, the air between them felt less charged with the heat of the forge and more with the quiet significance of the moment. Ethari squeezed Callum’s shoulder gently, a silent gesture of approval and support.

“How soon do you need them?” Ethari asked, already thinking ahead.

“Soon,” Callum said, feeling the urgency return. “I don’t want to wait. I want to ask her as soon as possible.”

Ethari nodded again, his expression thoughtful. “I’ll start on it right away. It won’t take long.” He paused, his gaze turning more serious. “Have you spoken to Lain and Tiadrin yet?”

Callum’s shoulders tensed slightly, but he nodded. “Not yet, but I will. I want to talk to them before I ask her. I just… I don’t know what they’ll say.”

Ethari gave him a knowing look. “They care about Rayla, and they’ve come to respect you. It won’t be easy, but they’ll listen. And even if they don’t agree, Rayla’s heart is her own.”

Callum took a deep breath, nodding slowly. “You’re right. I just want them to know how much I love her. How much she means to me.”

“They’ll know,” Ethari said with certainty. “You’ve proven yourself, Callum. You’ve stood by her side through the worst of it. That speaks louder than any words.”

Callum gave a small, grateful smile. “I hope so.”

Ethari’s smile returned, warm and encouraging. “You’re going to do just fine, lad. And when the time comes, I’ll have those things ready for you.”

With a final nod of thanks, Callum turned to leave the forge, feeling both anxious and eager for what lay ahead. He had one more task before he could propose to Rayla, and as daunting as it felt, he knew it was the right thing to do.

Callum left the forge with a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for what came next. He knew he had to find Lain and Tiadrin as soon as he could. As much as he wanted to skip the confrontation and just propose, Rayla deserved for him to try. She deserved the blessing of her parents. He made his way across the camp, where the mood remained tense with the ongoing war. People bustled about, tending to their duties, but Callum’s focus was on one thing—finding Rayla’s parents.

He spotted them by the makeshift training grounds, talking quietly with one of the Skywing elves. Their silver hair caught the fading sunlight, and for a moment, he hesitated. What if they disapproved? What if they outright refused? 

Even if they did though, he reminded himself, it didn’t matter.

Summoning his courage, Callum approached them. Lain noticed him first and raised an eyebrow. Tiadrin followed her husband’s gaze and gave Callum a nod, her expression unreadable.

“Callum,” Lain greeted, folding his arms across his chest. “Everything alright?”

Callum nodded, doing his best to keep his tone steady. “I was hoping I could talk to both of you. It’s… important.”

Tiadrin exchanged a quick glance with Lain before stepping forward. “Of course,” she said, her voice gentle but measured. They moved a few steps away from the other elves, giving them some privacy.

Callum took a deep breath, his heart pounding. “I won’t take up too much of your time,” he began, meeting their eyes directly. “I just wanted to tell you both that… I plan to ask Rayla to marry me.”

Lain’s eyes widened slightly, and Tiadrin’s brow furrowed in surprise, but neither said anything immediately. Callum rushed to continue, “I know things have been difficult. And I know we’re still young. But I love her. I’ve loved her for a long time, and I want to spend the rest of my life with her. I know she feels the same.”

Lain’s posture stiffened, but Tiadrin was the first to speak. “You’re right that you’re both young, Callum,” she said carefully. “And this war… it makes everything more uncertain. Are you sure this is what you want now?”

“I’m sure,” Callum answered without hesitation. “I don’t want to wait any longer than I have to. We’ve already been through so much together. I want her to know I’m committed to her, now and always.”

Lain studied him for a moment, his expression hard to read. “Marriage isn’t a light decision,” he said, his voice firm. “Especially not during a time of war. You need to be prepared for what this means.”

Callum met his gaze steadily. “I know it won’t be easy. But nothing about this war has been easy. But that’s one of the main reasons why I want to ask her now. Rayla and I have stood by each other through it all. And I want to keep standing by her—for the rest of my life.”

Lain exchanged another glance with Tiadrin, and this time, there was a softness in their eyes that hadn’t been there before. Tiadrin’s expression softened further, and she stepped closer to Callum, placing a hand on his shoulder.

“We’ve watched you fight alongside Rayla,” Tiadrin said, her voice quiet but full of meaning. “And we know how much you care for her. You’ve proven yourself time and time again.”

Lain finally spoke, his tone less stern than before. “If this is what Rayla wants, and you’re both certain… then we won’t stand in your way. You have our blessing.”

Callum’s heart swelled with relief and gratitude. He nodded, his voice thick with emotion. “Thank you. It means a lot to me.”

Tiadrin smiled, and even Lain’s expression softened into something like approval. “Take care of our daughter, Callum,” Lain said quietly.

“I will,” Callum promised. “Always.”

—

That night, the sky was clear, and the cool air carried the sounds of the camp—murmurs of conversations, the crackling of distant fires. Callum sat by the fire outside their tent, his sketchbook in his lap, the pages lit by the warm glow of the flames. His hand moved quickly across the paper, drawing the intricate designs for the ring and horn cuffs he’d asked Ethari to make. It was all coming together, but his mind was a storm of thoughts. Tomorrow, everything would change.

He was so lost in his thoughts, he didn’t hear Rayla approach until she was right beside him. “Hey,” she said softly, her voice cutting through the night.

Callum jolted slightly, snapping his sketchbook shut. “Rayla,” he greeted with a sheepish smile, feeling a little guilty for not hearing her sooner. She took a seat next to him as she glanced at the closed book in his lap.

“You okay?” she asked, her gaze searching his face. “I missed you today.”

Her words tugged at his heart, and he felt the weight of hiding the proposal plans. He set the sketchbook aside, shifting closer to her. “I missed you too. I’m sorry, I just… had a lot on my mind.” He wrapped an arm around her, pulling her closer.

Rayla leaned into him, resting her head on his shoulder. “You seemed really deep in thought just now. Something bothering you?”

Callum hesitated for a second, glancing at the sketchbook beside him. He couldn’t let her see what he’d been working on—not yet. “No, nothing like that,” he said, his voice soft. “Just… a lot going on with the war and everything, I guess.”

His girlfriend looked up at him, her eyes full of concern. “You can talk to me, you know. You don’t have to carry it all by yourself.”

Callum smiled at her, “I know. I will. Just… not tonight. Tonight, I just want to be here with you.”

Rayla smiled back and nuzzled into his neck. “Good. ‘Cause I missed this,” she murmured, her voice warm and affectionate.

Callum chuckled softly, holding her close. “Me too.”

For a few moments, they sat together in comfortable silence, the fire crackling in front of them. Callum’s mind raced with thoughts of tomorrow—of the ring and the proposal. But for now, he was content to just be with Rayla, holding her close and savoring this quiet moment before everything changed.

They stayed like that for a long time, the quiet sounds of the camp filling the space around them. Rayla’s presence beside him, her warmth pressed into his side, helped ease the tension that had built up throughout the day. Callum rested his cheek against her hair, closing his eyes for a moment and simply breathing her in.

After a while, Rayla stirred, tilting her head to look up at him. “You sure you’re alright?” she asked again, softer this time. “You seemed distant today. Usually, you come find me when you’re done with meetings.”

Callum’s heart ached at her concern, but he forced a reassuring smile. “I’m okay, Rayla. Just… like I said, a lot on my mind.” He paused, searching for the right words to divert her attention from his secret. “I’ve just been thinking about the future, you know? About us. Everything that’s happening.”

Rayla’s brow furrowed slightly, but she nodded, her expression softening. “I’ve been thinking about that too,” she admitted. “It’s hard not to, with the war and all. But whatever happens, we’ve got each other. That’s the one thing I’m sure of.”

Callum’s chest tightened with emotion. She had no idea just how much those words meant to him. Tomorrow, when he asked her to marry him, he’d make sure she knew just how much she meant to him. He kissed the top of her head, lingering for a moment. “Yeah. We do.”

Rayla shifted a little, sitting up so she could look him in the eye. “I’m here for you, Callum. You know that, right?”

Her words struck deep, and for a second, Callum almost told her. Almost let the secret spill out, right there under the stars. But he held back. He wanted the proposal to be perfect, and the timing wasn’t right just yet.

“I know,” he whispered, his hand finding hers and giving it a gentle squeeze. “And I’m grateful for that. For you.”

Rayla smiled softly, her gaze lingering on his for a moment before she leaned in to kiss him. It was gentle, but filled with that same unspoken understanding that always seemed to pass between them. When they pulled apart, she rested her forehead against his. “Well, whenever you’re ready to talk, I’ll be here.”

“I know,” Callum whispered, his voice barely above a breath. He squeezed her hand again before pulling back slightly. “How was your day? I didn’t even get a chance to ask.”

Rayla raised an eyebrow, her lips quirking into a slight grin. “Nothing too exciting. Did some scouting, helped with a few patrols. Same old stuff.”

“Did you see anything interesting?” Callum asked, grateful for the change of topic.

Rayla shrugged. “Just some tracks. Probably another one of Aaravos’s minions, but nothing we couldn’t handle.”

Callum nodded, feeling a bit lighter now that the conversation had shifted. “You’re always handling things.”

“Someone’s gotta keep you on your toes,” she teased, nudging him playfully.

Callum chuckled, nudging her back. “Yeah, I’d be lost without you.”

Rayla grinned, leaning her head against his shoulder again. “Good to know. I plan on sticking around for a long time.”

Callum smiled to himself, his heart swelling with love for her. Tomorrow, he’d make sure that promise of “a long time” became forever. But for now, he just enjoyed the moment, the two of them sitting together under the stars, the fire crackling softly in front of them, and the weight of the world seeming just a little bit lighter in her presence.

—

Rayla stretched lazily as the first light of dawn filtered into their tent, casting a soft, golden glow over the space. She reached out instinctively for Callum, but her hand brushed against the cool sheets where he should have been. Opening her eyes, she found his side of the bed empty.

She sighed, pushing herself up onto her elbows and scanning the tent. No sign of him anywhere. Of course, he’d probably been pulled away for another meeting—just like yesterday, and the day before. The war had only intensified, and with it, Callum’s responsibilities had grown heavier. She knew he was doing everything he could, but sometimes… it felt like he was slipping away, inch by inch.

But Rayla shook the thought away. She couldn’t let his absence bother her. Not when there were more important things at stake. She swung her legs out of bed, grabbing her boots and tugging them on, ready to face another day of scouting and patrols. 

As she went about her morning routine, she couldn’t help but notice how much quieter it was without him there. Normally, they’d share a few moments of banter, soft kisses exchanged between dressing and planning their day. But now, the silence stretched around her, heavy and unwelcome.

Rayla pulled her cloak tighter around her, Stella chittering from her shoulder, pushing open the tent flap to step into the crisp morning air. She scanned the camp, hoping to catch a glimpse of Callum somewhere nearby, but all she saw were soldiers preparing for the day.

No sign of him.

She sighed, running a hand through her hair. “Well, time to get moving,” she muttered to herself, heading toward the center of camp where most of the command tents were located. Maybe she’d spot him there.

But as she walked, something else tugged at her thoughts. Yesterday, Callum had seemed… distant. More than usual. And now, with his early disappearance, it made her wonder if something more was going on. She frowned, biting her lip as she made her way through the bustling camp. Whatever it was, she hoped he’d talk to her about it soon.

Rayla tried to focus on her tasks that day, but the growing weight of Callum’s absence lingered in the back of her mind like a dark cloud she couldn’t shake. Every scout report she reviewed, every routine patrol she led, every conversation she had with the soldiers—it all seemed to blur together. Her thoughts were a constant pull toward him, wondering where he was, if he was alright, why he hadn’t come to see her.

She caught herself glancing around camp more often than she should have, her eyes scanning for any sign of him. Each time she didn’t find him, the knot in her chest tightened. The logical part of her knew he was probably caught up in more meetings or training sessions—after all, he had important responsibilities as Katolis’s High Mage—but the dark thoughts she’d been pushing away kept creeping in. 

What if something had happened? What if he was hurt or in danger? What if—

She shook her head, forcing herself to stop. She couldn’t let her mind spiral. She knew better than to let fear get the best of her, especially with all they had already survived. But still, the gnawing worry refused to let go.

By the time evening rolled around, she was exhausted, both physically and mentally. Rayla approached their tent, her steps slow and heavy. She hadn’t seen Callum once all day, and the absence of their usual connection left her feeling hollow. Just as she was about to enter the tent alone, the sound of hurried footsteps caught her attention.

Before she could turn around, she felt someone grab her waist, and suddenly, Callum’s lips crashed into hers with an intensity that made her heart leap. He twirled her around in a swift, joyful motion, her feet lifting off the ground as he held her close. She let out a small gasp against his lips, her hands instinctively wrapping around his neck.

When he finally set her back down, their lips parted, and she found herself staring up at him, breathless. Callum’s face was filled with deep apology, his hands still holding her tightly.

“Rayla, I am so sorry,” he began, his voice earnest, “I didn’t think I’d be that long—”

Before he could finish, he kissed her again, soft but urgent. When he pulled back again, his brow furrowed with guilt, “I kept trying to meet up with you, but there was one thing, and then the next—”

Another kiss, this time slower, and Rayla’s heart swelled with warmth, melting away the day’s worry.

“I’m really sorry,” he whispered, kissing her yet again, and Rayla could hardly keep up with his words, but she didn’t mind. All she could think about was the relief of having him here, holding her like this.

Her hands cupped his face as she pressed her forehead to his, their breaths mingling. “I missed you so much,” she whispered back, her voice shaky with emotion. 

“I missed you too,” he replied, his lips brushing against hers once more.

Rayla held him close, resting her forehead against his for a moment longer, letting the rush of emotions settle as his warmth enveloped her. The worries and frustrations of the day slowly melted away, replaced by the comfort of Callum’s presence. She let out a soft sigh, her fingers tracing the back of his neck as they both stood there, holding onto each other.

Callum pulled back slightly, just enough to meet her eyes. “I’ll make it up to you,” he promised, his voice sincere and laced with guilt. “I didn’t mean to worry you.”

Rayla shook her head, smiling softly. “You don’t have to make anything up to me, Callum. I just… I missed you today.” Her fingers slid down his arms, lacing their hands together. “It’s hard when you’re not around.”

He nodded, his gaze falling to the ground for a moment before he looked back at her, his expression full of understanding. “I know. It’s hard for me too.”

Rayla tilted her head, her eyes narrowing slightly with curiosity. “Hard? What are you talking about?”

He smiled softly, though there was a trace of nervousness behind it. “I don’t like being far from you. For everything. I know you said you’re fine, but I still want to… I don’t know, do something special.”

Rayla gave a small chuckle, shaking her head. “Callum, you’ve already done more than enough. You don’t have to—”

“I want to,” he interrupted, his voice gentle but firm. He took her hands in his, the warmth of his touch reassuring. “I really do.”

Rayla looked down at their joined hands, feeling the sincerity in his words. She opened her mouth to respond, but before she could, Callum gently tugged her forward, guiding her away from the camp and toward the nearby woods.

“Callum?” she asked, her tone filled with curiosity as she followed his lead. The moon had begun to rise, casting a silvery glow over the trees, and the cool night air brushed against her skin. She could hear the distant sounds of the camp growing quieter as they ventured further into the forest, the world around them becoming more still.

He didn’t answer right away, instead giving her hand a gentle squeeze as they continued walking. Rayla felt a small flutter of anticipation in her chest but allowed herself to be led, trusting him completely.

When they finally stopped, Callum took a deep, shaky breath, his eyes scanning the area before he turned to face her. Rayla’s brow furrowed as she watched him, noting the way his shoulders tensed slightly, the way he seemed to gather his thoughts before speaking.

“Callum?” she asked again, her voice softer this time. He looked at her, and Rayla saw the faintest hint of nerves in his eyes, something she hadn’t seen in a long time. 

Talking to her parents had been easier compared to this. The thought of her saying no, however far fetched and ridiculous, was far scarier.

Callum held Rayla’s hand gently but firmly as he gazed up at her. His eyes were earnest, the moonlight highlighting the emotion in his expression. “Rayla,” he began, his voice soft but filled with determination. “I know this has been a lot. Everything happening so quickly, with the war and all the changes.”

He paused, taking a deep breath before continuing, “Everything’s so uncertain. We don’t know if we’ll make it to the next sunrise. And I don’t want to be all doom and gloom. I want to be optimistic, I want to believe that there’s a bright future for all of us at the end of this. I want to give you that future.”

Callum squeezed her hands lightly, his gaze steady on hers. “I don’t know what’ll happen tomorrow, or even a year from now, but I don’t want to regret anything. I want to be there for you, more than I have been.” His voice grew softer, but more intense, “I want to be there to remind you, every single day, how wonderful, and kind, and strong, and beautiful you are.”

Rayla’s breath caught as she watched him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. Callum’s voice wavered slightly, but he continued, “I don’t want anything left unsaid between us, ever. I love you, so much, and I always will. It’s always going to be you and me, forever. You’re my light, Rayla. My deepest truth. My heart. My love.”

The tears that had been threatening to fall now began to spill over, but Rayla remained silent, captivated by the depth of his words. Callum smiled through his own tears, his voice filled with warmth, “You’re my everything, Ray.” He took a deep breath, his face glowing with hope and love. “So, I want to ask you—”

Rayla’s heart raced as Callum slowly dropped to one knee, still holding her hand. He brought it to his lips and kissed her knuckles tenderly, his eyes never leaving hers. “Will you marry me, Rayla?”

Rayla’s breath caught in her throat, and she stared at Callum, her eyes wide in astonishment. For a moment, the world seemed to stand still as she took in the enormity of his proposal. Callum, his hopeful expression faltering, began to worry that he might have rushed things. He started to stammer, “Unless y-you’re not ready, then that’s fine—of course—”

Rayla rolled her eyes with a mix of amusement and affection, cutting him off. “Of course I’ll marry you, dummy.” She pulled him up to his feet, her laughter mingling with her tears as she pressed her lips to his.

They remained locked in that kiss for several moments, their embrace deep and tender, the world around them fading away. The ring, momentarily forgotten in Callum’s pocket, seemed insignificant.

Callum’s hands found their way to Rayla’s waist, and their lips parted for just a moment, breathless. But it was only a fleeting pause before Rayla’s fingers tangled in his hair, pulling him in again. They melted into each other, their kisses soft yet fervent, never parting for more than a beat. Some of her kisses landed on the corner of his mouth, playful and sweet.

She had said yes. Rayla had said yes to marrying him. 

Oh, how he loved her. He could hardly believe it. She was going to be his wife, and he was going to be her husband.

Callum had never considered himself a man of firm faith, but in that moment, he silently thanked whatever higher power existed for bringing her to him, for placing her in his arms, where she belonged.

Then, Callum remembered the ring, still safely tucked in the pocket of his belt. The ring he’d meant to place on her finger but had nearly forgotten entirely. The next time Rayla leaned in to kiss him, he turned his head slightly, causing her lips to land on his cheek instead. Not that it deterred her in the slightest.

Callum let out a soft chuckle. “I still need to give you the ring, love.”

Rayla hummed contentedly against his skin. “I’m not stopping you,” she teased, letting one hand fall from his neck and holding it out expectantly, her face still buried against his, lips against his cheek, the other arm still slung loosely around him.

Callum rolled his eyes, amused. “As you wish.”

Gently, he slid the shining ring Ethari had crafted onto her finger, the gems catching the soft glint of moonlight. He then brought her hand up, pressing a kiss to the ring, then to her finger. With a quiet sigh, he leaned into her touch, still holding her hand but letting his arm relax.

“It’s done,” he murmured.

Rayla smiled into him, her voice a soft whisper. “We’re engaged.”

His heart swelled. “We’re engaged,” he echoed.

They lingered there for a little while longer, savoring the moment. Then, Callum shifted, removing his other hand from her waist and gently lifting her chin so he could meet her gaze. He stroked her cheek tenderly, his touch filled with love.

“I really, really love you, Rayla,” he said softly.

She smiled up at him, her eyes shining. “I really love you, too, Callum.”

Callum's smile deepened as they gazed at each other, the world around them fading away, leaving just the two of them beneath the soft glow of the rising moon. He brushed his thumb over her cheek, memorizing every detail of her face in that serene, intimate moment. He had seen Rayla in countless lights—fierce, determined, playful—but this, right here, where she was glowing with love and happiness, was a version of her he wanted to carry with him forever.

Slowly, his forehead came to rest against hers, their breaths syncing as they stood in silence for a moment, just letting the weight of the evening sink in.

“I can’t believe it,” Callum whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “You’re going to be my wife.”

Rayla chuckled softly, the sound vibrating against his chest as she shifted closer. “I can’t believe you’re going to be my husband.”

They both laughed quietly, the reality of it all still settling in. Callum tightened his arms around her waist, holding her close, as if needing to ground himself in the feel of her.

“We should probably head back soon,” Rayla murmured, though she made no move to pull away.

Callum groaned dramatically, nuzzling into her neck. “Just a little longer, please?”

Rayla giggled and rolled her eyes, her fingers absentmindedly running through his hair. “Alright, but only because you asked so sweetly.”

—

That night, when they returned to their tent, there was no second guessing anything anymore. Callum started by unfastening Rayla’s cloak, his fingers lingering on the clasps longer than necessary, brushing lightly against her skin as he carefully folded the fabric and set it aside. His touch was gentle, reverent, as though each movement was a silent expression of his affection. He pressed a kiss to the back of her neck, where a thin, pale scar crossed her skin, his lips lingering just a moment longer as if to kiss away the pain it had once caused her.

Rayla smiled softly at the contact, her body relaxing under his care. She didn’t hesitate to help him in return, deftly slipping her fingers around the clasps of his sleeveless jacket. She tugged it free with ease, her fingertips brushing lightly along his collarbones as she slid the material down his arms. She folded the jacket as neatly as he had hers, setting it aside before she moved to his under armor. 

Her movements were just as deliberate, fingers tracing the hard lines of his chest as she peeled it from his body. Each piece was carefully placed to the side, but not without the occasional light touch, a quiet sigh escaping her lips as her hand rested against his now bare skin.

Callum’s hands found the edges of her tunic next, slipping beneath the fabric to gently lift it over her head. His knuckles brushed against her sides, causing a soft shiver to run down her spine. She wore a thin undershirt and cloth bindings underneath, covering her chest modestly, and he was mindful of that. As he always was. 

Once the tunic was folded and set aside, his eyes were drawn to her, to the way her silver hair tumbled loosely down her back, and the softness of her skin now more exposed to him. He leaned forward, pressing another kiss just below her ear, feeling her breath hitch slightly in response.

Rayla, in turn, reached for the last few pieces of his clothing, her fingers working at the hem of his shirt before tugging it up and over his head. She didn’t rush, letting her palms glide across his chest, feeling the firm muscle beneath her touch, lingering on the curve of his shoulders and the dip of his waist as she set the shirt aside. Her hands, as they always did, found his waist once again, and she pulled him closer, resting her cheek against his chest. His heartbeat was steady beneath her ear, a comforting rhythm that matched her own.

Callum’s hands slid gently down to her waist, the warmth of his touch grounding Rayla. After a few moments, his fingers hovered just at her waistband, pausing—asking a silent question she knew well.

They had always been careful not to rush anything between them, taking time to cherish every step of their relationship, even now, after making such a monumental decision. Though they’d dressed and undressed each other more times than either could count, and had fallen asleep wrapped in each other’s arms for over a year, the weight of what they had now, what they were building, felt different. Sacred.

Callum pressed his lips to her temple before whispering, “May I?”

Rayla’s heart fluttered at the soft sincerity in his voice. She nodded against him, feeling safe, cherished, and completely loved in his hold.

Slowly, almost as if savoring every second, his fingers worked at the ties of her belt, loosening it with ease before gently pulling it free. He folded it with care, never rushing, never breaking the calm rhythm they’d fallen into.

They both understood the importance of this—the balance they’d agreed to. Taking things slow wasn’t just a decision; it was a mutual promise, rooted in respect for each other’s boundaries. Even now, with the weight of the night settling around them, that promise held firm, woven into every touch, every breath.

Rayla shifted slightly, allowing him better access, her breath steady but slow, as though each exhale carried a part of the weight they’d both been holding onto for so long. When his hands moved to unlace the front of her undershirt, his touch remained deliberate, careful—reverent.

The cloth bindings beneath were a final barrier, one they both knew was hers to control. And as always, Callum respected that boundary, gently removing only the undershirt, revealing more of her skin to the cool night air. His fingers grazed lightly along her back, and Rayla tilted her head, letting her silver hair fall over her shoulder as she closed her eyes, feeling the warmth of his hands as they traced across her skin.

Callum leaned down, pressing a delicate kiss to her shoulder, his lips lingering just enough to draw a soft sigh from her.

Rayla opened her eyes again, her hands already moving to the ties at his waist, then they paused. It was her turn now. She looked up to him, “May I?” she whispered, her voice barely above a breath, seeking his consent in this intimate exchange.

Callum’s response was a soft nod, his eyes filled with warmth and reassurance.

She loosened his trousers with the same deliberate care, her fingers brushing lightly against his skin as she worked. She moved slowly, not out of hesitation but out of a desire to take in every detail—the way his body reacted to her touch, the small catch in his breath when her fingers traced along the edge of his waistband.

Once his trousers were loose, she helped him step out of them, folding them neatly before her hands found their way back to him, tracing a path up his sides, across his chest, and finally coming to rest at the nape of his neck. She pulled him in, their foreheads resting against each other, the warmth of their breaths mingling in the small space between them.

Callum closed his eyes, leaning into her touch, his hands gliding over her arms, up to her shoulders, then back down her sides in a slow, comforting rhythm. He took a breath, the soft scent of her hair filling his senses as he pressed a kiss to her temple.

Rayla’s fingers found his hair again, threading through the strands as she leaned closer. They stayed like that, wrapped in each other’s presence, the world outside their tent feeling distant and insignificant. All that mattered was the quiet intimacy between them—the way their bodies fit together, the gentle touches, and the steady rhythm of their breaths.

Callum shifted slightly, his hands returning to her waist, his thumb tracing light, lazy circles against her skin. “Rayla,” he whispered, his voice low and soft, almost as if speaking louder would break the moment. She hummed in response, her fingers continuing their gentle exploration of his back.

“I don’t think I could ever get used to this,” he murmured, leaning back just enough to look into her eyes. There was a softness in his gaze, a kind of peace that he only ever found in her presence.

Rayla smiled up at him, her own eyes shining with a quiet affection. “Good,” she whispered, her lips curving into a playful grin. “That way, you’ll always appreciate it.”

He chuckled softly, leaning down to capture her lips in a slow, tender kiss. The feeling of her smile against his own only made his heart swell further. They stayed like that for several more moments, savoring the warmth of each other’s presence before slowly pulling apart, though their foreheads remained pressed together, their breaths mingling once more in the quiet space between them.

They both knew the night wasn’t over, but there was no need to rush. In the peaceful stillness of their shared tent, they had all the time in the world.

Callum and Rayla then made their way to their bed, their hands still intertwined. The tent was dimly lit by the soft glow of a lantern, casting gentle shadows that danced across the walls. He and Rayla settled in together, the real bed offering a sense of cozy warmth and security.

Callum’s fingers continued their reverent exploration, tracing soothing patterns along Rayla’s back. She responded by curling closer, resting her head against his chest. The steady rise and fall of his breathing was a comforting rhythm, a reassurance that they were safe and together.

Rayla sighed contentedly, her fingers lightly brushing over his side, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath her touch. There was no need for words; their silence spoke volumes about their shared contentment. Callum’s hand found its way to her hair, gently combing through the silver strands, his touch tender and deliberate.

“You... you know this isn’t the reason I asked you, right?” Callum said suddenly, his hands hesitating on her skin. His voice carried a hint of worry, his gaze faltering slightly as he searched her face.

Rayla paused, the concern in his tone making her heart ache. It took her a moment, but she understood. He was afraid she might think he was taking advantage of her, that she was only going along with this because he wanted it, and that his proposal was driven by this moment. She could see the uncertainty in his eyes, the way he seemed almost ready to apologize for something that didn’t need apologizing for.

“That’s ridiculous, you know,” Rayla said softly, her voice full of understanding. “But I get why you’re worried. I’m not going along with this just because you want it. I said yes because I want to be with you, all of you, for the rest of our lives.”

Callum’s expression softened, a mixture of relief and affection crossing his face. “I just... I don’t want you to think that this,” he gestured between them with his gaze, “is the reason. I love you, Rayla, not just for these moments but for everything that makes you who you are.”

Rayla smiled up at him, her eyes tender and reassuring. “I never thought that. I know you love me for who I am, not just what we share in moments like this. And I love you for the same reasons. It’s never just about this, Callum. It’s about us, together.”

He sighed, a relieved smile spreading across his face. “I’m glad. I just… needed to hear that.”

Rayla reached up, cupping his face with her hands. “You’ve heard it. You’ve always been the one who makes me feel complete.”

Callum leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. “Thank you for understanding.”

Rayla rested her head back on his chest, a contented smile on her lips. “We’re together now, and that’s all that matters.”

They settled back into their embrace, the warmth of the bed and the closeness of each other providing a sense of deep comfort. The outside world felt distant and insignificant compared to the quiet sanctuary they had created for themselves. The promise of their future together was a comforting thought, and for now, that was all they needed.

As they settled further, Callum continued his gentle touches, his fingers tracing slow, soothing patterns along Rayla’s back. Each stroke was tender, as if he were memorizing the details of her skin, his touch a silent declaration of his affection. Rayla responded instinctively, her body relaxing further into the embrace, her forehead resting comfortably against his chest. The steady rise and fall of his breathing was a comforting rhythm, a reassurance that they were safe and together.

Rayla sighed softly, her fingers drifting across his side, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath her touch. Her movements were light and deliberate, exploring the familiar, comforting presence of him. There was no need for words; their shared silence spoke volumes about their deep, contented connection.

Callum’s hand then moved to Rayla’s hair. His fingers wove through her silver strands, smoothing them back with a careful, loving touch. Each stroke was slow and deliberate, as though he were savoring every moment of this closeness. Rayla’s eyes fluttered closed in response to the comforting rhythm of his fingers.

As Callum’s hand drifted down from her hair, he traced a light path along her shoulder, his touch feather-light. Rayla shivered slightly, not from cold but from the gentle, affectionate touch that seemed to resonate through her. She tilted her head slightly, giving him better access, and her fingers found their way to the small of his back, lightly grazing the skin there.

Callum’s fingers then drifted back up to her neck, where he traced gentle circles with his thumb, the touch both calming and intimate. Rayla nuzzled closer, her cheek resting against his chest, her fingers curling around his waist, pulling him a little nearer. The heat of his body against hers was a steady comfort, a warmth that made her feel cherished and loved.

He leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to her temple, his lips lingering just a moment before pulling away. Rayla smiled softly at the gesture, her hand moving to his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath her palm. The rhythm was calming, a steady pulse that matched the tranquility of their shared space.

Callum’s hand found its way back to her face, his thumb lightly brushing against her cheek. He traced a gentle line from her jaw to her temple, his touch slow and reverent. Rayla’s eyes fluttered open for a moment, meeting his gaze with a sleepy, contented smile. She leaned into his touch, closing her eyes again as she savored the moment.

“You feel so right here,” Callum murmured softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Rayla’s lips curved into a gentle smile. “So do you,” she whispered back, her fingers lightly stroking his side in a soothing rhythm.

They continued to hold each other, their breaths mingling in the quiet stillness of the tent. The bed was a cocoon of warmth and intimacy, their bodies fitting together perfectly as they prepared to drift into sleep. The outside world faded away, leaving only the peaceful sanctuary they had created together.

With one last tender kiss, Callum and Rayla nestled deeper into the bedding, their bodies entwined in a soft embrace. The gentle rise and fall of their breathing was the only sound that filled the tent, a perfect harmony of love and contentment as they surrendered to the quiet peace of the night.

—

As the first light of dawn began to filter through the thin fabric of their tent, Callum woke before Rayla, the soft morning light gently nudging him from sleep. He lay there for a few moments, simply enjoying the peacefulness of the morning and the warmth of Rayla’s body pressed against his. Her breath was soft and steady against his chest, a comforting rhythm that made him feel at home.

He shifted slightly, careful not to disturb her, and propped himself up on one elbow. With a tender smile, he looked down at her serene expression, her silver hair fanned out around her like a halo. His fingers traced lightly along her back, the touch gentle and affectionate, as if savoring the stillness of the moment before the day began.

Rayla stirred, a soft sigh escaping her lips as she gradually woke from her slumber. Her eyelids fluttered open, and she blinked groggily, adjusting to the soft morning light filtering through the tent. She smiled lazily as she registered Callum’s presence beside her, his warm gaze and gentle touch filling her with a sense of contentment.

“Good morning,” Callum whispered, his voice soft and filled with affection.

Rayla responded with a sleepy smile, her fingers reaching up to brush against his cheek. “Good morning,” she murmured back, her voice still thick with sleep.

They lay there for a few more minutes, savoring the quiet of the moment. Callum’s hand traced patterns on Rayla’s back as she nestled closer to him. Her fingers found their way to his side, lightly brushing against his skin in a tender, reassuring touch.

There was no rush to get up. The world outside seemed distant and unimportant compared to the warmth and closeness they shared in the bed. They took their time, simply enjoying each other’s presence. Callum pressed a soft kiss to Rayla’s forehead, his lips lingering just a moment longer before he pulled back to gaze at her.

Rayla’s eyes met his, a playful glint in them as she nestled her head deeper into his chest. “I could stay like this forever,” she said softly, her fingers drawing lazy circles on his side.

Callum chuckled quietly, his hand brushing through her hair. “So could I,” he admitted, his voice low and warm. “It’s nice not to have to rush.”

They continued to lie together, wrapped in the comfort of the bed, their bodies intertwined as they savored the peaceful morning. Callum gently traced his fingers along Rayla’s arm, the touch light and affectionate, while Rayla’s breath grew deeper and more even as she relaxed further into his embrace.

After a while, Rayla stirred slightly, her eyes fluttering open as she gazed up at Callum with a soft smile. “Do we have to get up?” she asked, her voice still laced with sleep.

Callum shook his head, his fingers continuing their gentle caress. “Not if you don’t want to. We have all the time we need.”

Rayla’s smile widened, and she curled closer, her fingers sliding up to rest on his chest. “Then let’s enjoy it,” she said softly.

And so, they stayed in bed, wrapped in each other’s warmth, the outside world feeling far away. Callum’s fingers continued their tender exploration, while Rayla’s touch remained gentle and soothing. The morning passed slowly, filled with soft whispers, gentle touches, and the quiet joy of being together.

Eventually, they both knew they would have to face the day, but for now, they were content to simply be in each other’s arms, savoring the last moments of their peaceful morning before they finally rose from the bed to greet the new day.

Rayla groaned softly, burying her face deeper into Callum’s chest as if trying to hide from the morning light. “Mmm... no,” she muttered, her voice muffled against his skin. “Five more minutes…”

Callum chuckled softly, his hand brushing through her hair in soothing strokes. “You said that ten minutes ago,” he teased gently, though there was no urgency in his voice. He was in no rush to move either, and he couldn’t help but enjoy how reluctant she was to leave the warmth of their bed.

“Don’t care,” Rayla mumbled stubbornly, squeezing her eyes shut and curling closer. She wasn’t a morning person, and it showed in the way she clung to Callum, unwilling to let the day intrude on their peaceful moment.

Callum smiled down at her, pressing a soft kiss to the top of her head. “I’ll let you have five more minutes if you promise not to kick me out of bed,” he joked.

Rayla’s lips quirked into a sleepy smile, though she didn’t move. “Deal,” she muttered, but after a few more moments, she reluctantly opened her eyes. The faint light filtering through the tent wasn’t helping her case, and with a sigh, she finally gave in, lifting her head just enough to look at him. “Fine... I’m up.”

“Are you, though?” Callum teased again, gently poking her side. She flinched slightly at the ticklish sensation, making a small sound of protest before swatting his hand away playfully.

“Stop that,” she grumbled, though there was no real bite in her tone. Slowly, she sat up, her movements sluggish as she stretched, her arms reaching above her head. Her silver hair fell messily over her shoulders, and she blinked a few times, still shaking off the remnants of sleep.

Callum sat up as well, watching her with an amused smile. “You look adorable when you’re grumpy in the morning,” he remarked, unable to resist teasing her a little more.

Rayla shot him a mock glare, though the corner of her mouth twitched in amusement. “Just wait ‘til I’m fully awake. Then we’ll see who’s adorable,” she replied with a smirk, though her tone was light and playful.

Callum laughed softly, leaning forward to kiss her cheek. “Alright, alright. Let’s get up before Ez comes looking for us.”

With a reluctant sigh, Rayla swung her legs over the edge of the bed, but not before giving him one more sleepy smile. “I’m only getting up because you’re asking so nicely.”

They both rose from the bed, moving with a shared, unspoken rhythm. The morning was quiet, their movements slow and easy as they began the process of dressing, reversing the tender routine of the night before. Callum reached for her undershirt, his fingers brushing lightly against her skin as he unfolded it and handed it to her.

Rayla took it with a small smile, her sleepy reluctance fading slightly as she let Callum’s gentle touches ground her in the moment. She slipped her arms into the sleeves, and Callum stepped forward, helping her adjust the fabric over her shoulders. His hands lingered briefly on her back, his thumbs brushing lightly against the base of her neck before he began lacing the ties at the front with practiced ease.

Rayla watched him through half-lidded eyes, a soft smile playing on her lips. “You’re getting good at this,” she remarked, her voice still thick with sleep but filled with affection.

Callum smiled, his fingers working deftly on the laces. “I’ve had good practice,” he replied softly, his eyes meeting hers for a moment before returning to his task. Once her undershirt was secure, he smoothed the fabric over her shoulders with a gentle touch, his hands lingering just a little longer than necessary.

Rayla’s hands moved next, reaching for his shirt where it had been folded neatly by the bedside. She unfolded it with care, her fingers brushing lightly over the fabric before holding it up for him. Callum raised his arms, allowing her to slip it over his head. She tugged the shirt down, her fingers tracing along his sides as she adjusted the fit.

Her touch was deliberate and tender, her hands lingering on the soft material of his shirt before moving to retrieve his trousers. She handed them to him with a small smile, her fingers brushing against his as he took them.

Callum slipped into his trousers, but before he could fasten them, Rayla stepped closer, her hands gently taking over the task. She worked at the ties with quiet focus, her fingers moving with the same slow, careful rhythm as last night. Once she was done, she smoothed her hands over the waistband.

Callum’s breath caught slightly at the touch, his gaze soft as he watched her. “You make it hard to focus on getting dressed,” he murmured with a playful smile.

Rayla chuckled softly, her hands lingering on his waist before stepping back to grab her own trousers. She moved with a bit more purpose now, the morning fog slowly lifting as she slipped into her clothing with ease. Callum, ever the thoughtful partner, helped her adjust her belt, his fingers brushing against hers as they worked together.

Once they were both fully dressed, Callum reached for her cloak, draping it carefully over her shoulders and fastening the clasps at the front. His fingers lingered on the clasps, his gaze soft as he looked down at her.

Rayla smiled up at him, her eyes still a little sleepy but filled with warmth. “Thanks,” she said softly, leaning forward to press a kiss to his cheek.

“Anytime,” Callum replied, taking her hand gently in his. He brought it to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to her engagement ring, his eyes filled with affection as he looked at her. The gesture was tender, a reminder of their bond, and Rayla’s heart swelled at the intimate, loving touch.

Rayla’s smile deepened as she looked up at him, her eyes tracing the lines of his face with a quiet fondness. She felt the warmth of his kiss linger on her hand, the weight of the ring on her finger a constant reminder of the life they were building together.

“You really like doing that, huh?” she teased, her voice still laced with the remnants of sleep.

Callum chuckled softly, his thumb brushing over the back of her hand. “Can’t help it,” he said, his tone playful yet sincere. “I still can’t believe we’re really engaged.”

Rayla squeezed his hand gently, stepping closer to him. “Believe it, mage,” she said, her voice soft yet filled with conviction. “You’re stuck with me now.”

He grinned, “I wouldn’t have it any other way,” his free hand moving to cup her cheek as he leaned in to kiss her again, this time slow and tender. When they finally pulled apart, their foreheads rested together, a shared breath between them before Rayla let out a small, reluctant sigh.

“All right, I’m up,” she muttered, rubbing at her eyes with her free hand. “Guess we better get going.”

Callum gave a soft laugh, but nodded in agreement. “Yeah, probably a good idea.” Still, his hand lingered on her waist as they stood there for a moment longer, both of them hesitant to let go of the quiet peace they had shared.

Eventually, Rayla gave him one last sleepy smile and stepped back, stretching her arms above her head with a low groan. “Let’s face the day, then,” she said, though there was a trace of reluctance in her voice.

Callum smirked as he watched her stretch, his gaze fond. “I’ll make sure we find some more time for ourselves later,” he promised, his voice gentle.

Rayla smiled at that, nodding in approval as she adjusted her cloak. “You’d better,” she teased, though there was no mistaking the warmth in her tone.

With one final glance at each other, they stepped out of the tent together, ready to face whatever the day had in store—side by side.