Leafy love 🌿🗡️ Griefer x reader

Chapter six - releases day

The day Brad was finally healed enough to be released back into public, you were there.

As much as he didn't want to take your hand, he did. You helped him up, offering your arm so he could steady himself. His legs were a little shaky — not surprising after being out of use for so long — but once he was upright, he managed well enough. Only a few minor injuries remained.

There were still some stubborn vines and plants growing slowly along his limbs, remnants of what had happened to him. Doctors told him that the vines would no longer spread aggressively, but would grow slowly instead — a change that would allow them to be removed painlessly over time. Brad rolled his eyes at the whole explanation, especially when he had to rely on your help. He even grumbled when he stumbled — but hey, at least you were there to catch him.

You took him to your car, deciding on the way that you were going to surprise the mayor. He didn't know his son was well enough to come home yet, and after everything he'd been through, this kind of good news might finally lift some of that weight off his shoulders.

Of course, Brad had to complain about your music choices the entire ride. According to him, your playlist was "trash." You reminded him that he didn't offer any alternatives, so he didn't really have a right to complain. He rolled his eyes again but didn't say much after that.

You pulled into the driveway of a quaint, medium-sized home. It was sweet and cozy — a place that felt like it had been filled with memories.
You walked Brad up to the door, watching as he hesitated slightly. He looked... anxious.

For once, you patted him on the shoulder, offering a bit of reassurance despite all the grief he's given you.

"Go on. Your dad's going to be so happy to see you. I promise — you don't have to worry about a thing."

He gave you an awkward smile, then raised his hand and knocked on the door.

The moment the door opened and the mayor saw who it was, Brad was pulled into a tight, crushing hug. He squeaked in surprise, letting out a weak protest — but he didn't resist long. His arms came up around his father, and he melted into the embrace.
It felt... nice. To stand. To hug his dad again. He should've done this a long time ago.

You just stood there, watching the heartwarming reunion unfold. Mayor Thaniyel truly cared for his son — and it showed in every word, every action, every breath of that hug.

You'd even made some progress with Brad yourself, which felt like an achievement in its own right. He was probably the most difficult person you'd dealt with since arriving — aside from yourself. But seeing him like this, happy and held close, made something inside your chest feel just a little bit warmer. Maybe the world wasn't all bad after all.

Just as you were about to quietly slip away, the mayor stopped you.

"Please, I do insist — stay for a cup of tea. Let me show some gratitude for what you did. For watching over Brad while I was gone..."

Who were you to pass up a good cup of tea?

You shrugged and stepped inside. Brad didn't look thrilled about it — in fact, he looked downright displeased — but there was something else behind that expression you couldn't quite place. Before you could read into it, you were already being guided to the dining table.

The mayor brought out a polished set of fine china, pouring the tea as soft curls of steam rose into the air. The scent of fruit mingled with the warmth, comforting and light. You chose one of the fruit flavors without much thought.

You lifted the cup to your mouth and took a sip — too soon.

"Hot!" you hissed, blowing rapidly as the burn hit your tongue.

Brad burst into laughter, of course — but a single sharp glare from his father immediately shut him up.
A moment later, the mayor handed you an ice cube to cool your mouth. After a while, the pain dulled, and you were able to enjoy your tea properly.

When you finally finished, you stood, gently pushed in your chair, and gave a polite smile.

"Thank you so much for the tea. It was lovely. I hope we can do this again sometime."

The mayor returned your smile, warm and full of sincerity.

"Whenever you have free time, I would love to."

Brad just glared at you across the table.