The Mini and The Thief (G/T)

Chapter 2: Time to rest

Ruby swung gently in Titus's pocket with every step he took. Occasionally, curiosity would lead her to stand on her tippy toes, eager to catch a glimpse of the world around her. But, whenever someone strolled by, Titus instinctively shielded her with his hand, ensuring she remained safe and hidden.
Ruby's tiny heart raced with fear as people passed by, causing her to retreat deep into Titus's pocket, where she huddled, trembling in the safety of its shadow.
"There's nothing you have to worry about," Titus reassured her, his voice carrying a warm chuckle as he gently patted his pocket.

Ruby found comfort in his words, believing that Titus was a kind and caring human, far from the mean or horrible figures she had heard about in the stories.

"They'd have to get through me first," Titus stated with unwavering determination, his voice carrying a serious tone. He came to a halt, taking a moment to stretch and yawn.
"We'll make a stop here," he announced, reaching into his pocket to retrieve Ruby. The sun was already setting and the air was filled with the gentle sound of flowing water, a serene stream adorned with moss-covered rocks and embraced by ancient trees. Gently, Titus knelt and placed Ruby on a small, mossy rock. As he removed his hood, he revealed his dark green eyes and brown hair tied neatly in a ponytail. Titus took off his hood and settled his bag.
"What's your name, kid?" Titus inquired, his gaze focused on Ruby.
"R-Ruby," she stammered, unable to contain her nervousness. Titus tilted his head slightly, his eyes softening.
"Ruby?" he repeated, and Ruby nodded affirmatively.
"Alright, Ruby, I need you to be a good girl and wait here, okay? I'll be back," he reassured her then ruffled her hair with his index finger before setting off, leaving Ruby to contemplate her newfound adventure in the tranquil forest.
Ruby's gaze fixated on the water, its surface shimmering under the gentle forest light. It stirred memories of when her parents used to take her for refreshing swims on scorching summer days.
Though she was never a strong swimmer, preferring the safety of shallow waters, she cautiously slid down from the rock and onto the forest floor.
Approaching the water's edge, Ruby gently cupped her hands and scooped up some of the clear, cool liquid. Its touch had an instant, soothing effect, washing over her like a calming balm in the heart of the tranquil forest.
"I wonder if Mama and Papa are looking for me," Ruby mused, her gaze fixed on her reflection in the water. Her heart still ached with worry, and the forest's quietude only amplified her solitude. Suddenly, a thunderous thud rumbled through the ground, causing Ruby to squeak in surprise and lose her footing, tumbling into the water.
Titus's eyes darted around anxiously, searching for any sign of Ruby as she vanished from her previous spot.
"Ruby? Where are you?" His voice trembled with fear and urgency, but he moved cautiously, aware of Ruby's small and fragile presence in the vast forest.
Titus's ears perked up at the soft splashing sound, and he turned to the stream's edge to find a dripping Ruby attempting to stand. His heart leaped with concern, and he swiftly knelt to scoop her up.
A tiny "achoo!" escaped her shivering form as the water's chill reached her. Titus acted quickly, retrieving a handkerchief from his pocket and gently wrapping her in it as if it were a warm towel.
"Are you alright? What happened?" he whispered, his relief evident at having found her.
"Y-you scared me…" Ruby clung to the handkerchief for warmth.
"I'm sorry. I'll be more careful next time. I was just gathering firewood for the night," Titus reassured her, his concern warming his voice as he tried to make amends for the fright he had caused. On the forest floor lay a pile of wood. Titus, still cradling the shivering Ruby, gently set her down on a nearby tree trunk.
"Let's get you warm now," he said with a reassuring smile. Titus then proceeded to rub his hands together, creating friction against the woodpile until a spark ignited, successfully lighting a comforting fire. As the warmth from the fire enveloped them, Ruby began to feel more at ease and removed the handkerchief. Titus, noticing her comfort, reached into his bag and retrieved a thick sandwich.
"I'm going to pick you up for a moment," he said gently, carefully lifting Ruby into his hand. He then settled down on the tree trunk, placing Ruby on his leg, ensuring she felt secure and close by. Titus broke off a small piece of his sandwich and handed it to Ruby. She accepted the piece with both hands, examining the sandwich closely. It was a luxury compared to her usual diet of nuts, fruits, and veggies. Ruby took a bite, and her eyes lit up with delight.
"It's delicious!" she exclaimed, and Titus couldn't help but chuckle heartily. Ruby eagerly devoured the sandwich, her cheeks puffing out as she hurriedly ate.
"Slow down, you're going to choke if you eat that fast," Titus advised, concerned for her well-being. With a gentle touch, he wiped the crumbs from her cheeks, watching as she savored the last bite. It was already night time and the crickets were chirping and the sound of the fire was crackling.
With curiosity piqued, Titus decided to engage in conversation.
"Now, Ruby, what exactly are you?"
"Um, well, I'm a Mini."
"A Mini?" Titus raised an eyebrow, finding the name fitting for her small stature.
"Minis are little people that live in the wild," Ruby explained, her gaze wandering.
"Hmm... interesting. How old are you? You still look like a baby," Titus teased gently.
"I'm not a baby. I am 7 years old!" Ruby protested, her determination evident.
"Yep, you're still a baby in my books," Titus replied with a smile. Ruby playfully stuck her tongue out and blew a raspberry. He couldn't help but pat her head in a comforting gesture, silently vowing to protect her. Titus' expression turned somber as he knew that the man had unrightfully and forcefully taken this innocent, timid, fragile girl from her home, family, and friends.
Ruby's perceptive red eyes softened as she observed the sadness etched on Titus's face.
"You look sad," she gently remarked.
"No need to worry about me," Titus replied, his voice tinged with a hint of melancholy.
"Sometimes I feel sad too," Ruby confessed softly, her voice barely above a whisper.
"I'll never see my Mama and Papa again... I'm scared that man will come find me and do mean things again." She hung her head, trying to conceal the depth of her sadness. Unexpectedly, Titus tenderly scooped Ruby into his palms, enveloping her in a warm, comforting hug.
"I can't promise you I'll be able to find your parents," he began, his voice filled with sincerity, "but I can promise you this: I will protect you with my life, and no one will ever hurt you again."
His words carried the weight of a solemn vow, aimed at reassuring Ruby that she was no longer alone in her struggle.
"You're a nice human, Titus," Ruby whispered, clinging to his shirt as if he were her giant protector. Her tiny fingers rubbed her tired eyes, exhaustion creeping in.
"It's getting late, time for bed," Titus noted, noticing Ruby's drowsiness. She nodded in agreement. Carefully, Titus stood up, creating a cozy resting spot for both of them. He offered her some space and a handkerchief to use as a makeshift blanket. He lay down, using his bag as a pillow. However, despite his calm exterior, he couldn't shake the anxiety of caring for a child, especially one as tiny as Ruby, when he had no prior experience.
Ruby, on her part, struggled to fall asleep. The croaking of toads and rustling in the grass kept her on edge. She timidly approached Titus, who was gazing up at the sky.
"Titus?" she whispered, causing him to jump slightly as he turned his attention to her. Ruby clutched the handkerchief tightly.
"What's wrong, sweetheart?" he asked with concern.
"I'm s-scared," Ruby admitted, her voice trembling.
"You're scared? Aw, come here." Titus lifted her gently onto his chest."What's the matter?" he inquired softly.
"I don't wanna be alone…" Ruby mumbled, her eyes growing heavy. She nestled closer to him, finding comfort in his warmth.
"You can sleep with me. Goodnight, sweetheart," Titus whispered, his voice filled with tenderness.
"Goo-Goodnight, Ty-Titus," Ruby mumbled sleepily before drifting off. Titus followed suit, finally at ease with Ruby nestled safely in his arms, both of them drifting into peaceful slumber.