The instant connection when they’d first met had been undeniable, that much was true. It had snuck up on them, pounced before either could object. Even on the beach when they’d first met, Tolio had been helpless to stop the instantaneous affection that had budded in his heart. It was such a sudden confession, and he was so dizzied by it. Unable to figure out what to do, how to handle it. How in the world could Phaedra love him after all? He really wasn’t anything special. In fact, he was gay! But it seemed his heart had carved out a special notch, just for Phaedra. She was the exception. But really, what did she find so attractive in him? He was a goofball of epic proportions, and had a strange dark side that appeared out of nowhere. Hardly masculine at all, and she was so beautiful that he couldn’t see why she’d go for a guy like him. Had expected her to swoon over some large, quiet stallion that would treat her like a princess. Yet she’d confessed her love to him, him! The boyish, touchy, outgoing stallion that was hardly mature enough to be considered an adult!

Even so his words formed, pouring out on a wave of honesty before he could stop it. But was it best to really stop it? Even if it was, they were already out there. Already touched her ears- influenced her. He couldn’t gather them up as if they’d littered the ground, stuff them back in his mouth followed by all four of his hooves. Yet he didn’t regret saying them. Somewhere in the back of his mind logic tutted at him, telling him he shouldn’t be making such a rash decision. Did he truly love her, as she loved him? But the emotions in his chest were confusing him, and it sure felt like it. So why should he lie? Thought could come later, after all. He just wanted to hold her, erase the damage done by the words they’d flung at each other like knives. So he did, stepping forward until their sides brushed together. Nostalgia coming to him, remembering that day on the beach clearly. It seemed fuzzy, like it had never truly happened. In a completely different time and world, where both of them were happy and oblivious to the storm that was headed their way. Tolio felt her sob into his neck and held her tighter, knowing he could do nothing else to soothe her. Words could only go so far. Sobs sounded nearly relieved, tears staining his neck even as he held her patiently. Waiting for it to blow over, for her to regain the composure she held so very well.

Once it was over she returned the embrace, eagerly. Wings wrapping around them, a cocoon of warmth and relief that formed around them a physical barrier. Creating their own little bubble, far away from the rest of the world. Nothing could touch them. Nobody could harm them. For once she did not seem the strong and vibrant mare he knew. No. Now, in his grasp, she felt small and frail. Like glass. And he swore never to harm that surface ever again, consciously or otherwise. Two words were breathed into his skin, and it took him a few long moments to discern what she had said. He was so caught up in his thoughts, in her, to pay attention to anything else. When he did though, he gently passed his muzzle over her side and back, comforting her and washing away the words with his touch. ”There is nothing to be sorry for, Phaedra…” Voice cascading into a deep, husky sound. Thoughts flew through his mind, trying to clamor for his attention. Screaming at him that this, right here, would force him to leave the only other home he’d ever known. He stayed only out of hope that Mauja would return, and for Faelene. But Faelene could handle herself, he knew that. Nothing would keep him from loving her, seeing her. Phaedra’s scent calmed him, pushing those thoughts away. He could deal with them much later. At that moment, all he wanted was to remain in their embrace for as long as possible.

Stella, on the other hand, did not want that. Trilling and splashing water at them almost poutily. Tolio chuckled and pulled away unwillingly from Phaedra, though he remained close. Looking over at the bird, amused. ”Stella, we can play later. I promise.” Doubting she understood what he was saying. He wasn’t her bonded after all. Turning back to Phaedra, mercury eyes showing he meant what he’d said to the bird. This time was for them. The light was cascading down on Phaedra’s face, illuminating the drying tears on her pretty face. Brightening the color of her eyes, the open visage he had longed for since that disastrous day in the Steppe. He’d never seen her look so beautiful. Crying or not, she was the most amazing creature he’d ever seen standing before him stripped completely bare. Something deep and instinctual tugged at his chest and he slowly drew his muzzle up her cheek towards her ear. Reveling in the softness. ”Phaedra…” Voice dropping lower, almost seductively. An unheard question lingered in her name, the magic of the Grove working its way into his veins. Stepping closer, drawing up to the full height he possessed. Darkened eyes staring deeply into hers. Waiting for her to give him an answer, verbally or otherwise.

He was too far gone in the electricity to stop it.