pining, confession
“I love you.”
Thandi stops in her tracks, looking at Charlie over her shoulder. He’s staring after her, rubbing an arm, looking… pained? Hopeful? Frightened?
“You… love me?”
“…yes…”
It’s puppy love. It’s because he has no one else right now. It’s because he needs the comfort and security she offers him. Whatever the case, Thandi is certain that if it were tested, he’d leave her in a heartbeat.
“Charlie. I can’t. You know I can’t…”
Hair slips in front of his eyes as he bows his head. He takes a deep breath, and for a moment, Thandi thinks he might spiral into an anxiety attack. Instead, Charlie nods.
“I know. I know. I just… want you… to know. I do. I love you. And… and… all I want is… for you to… not get hurt. I can’t take seeing you bleed and break.”
“What can you expect while we’re on a journey? It’s part of the work. Besides, you’re an excellent healer!”
“I don’t like healing you.”
Thandi blinks and tilts her head. “You mean, I’m a chore?”
“No!! I just!! Um!! It. It…”
Thandi shakes her head, severe in her words. “You shouldn’t be worrying about only me, either. A party is your family on the road! You should be taking care of everyone equally!”
“Yes, but, I love you.”