𝐖𝐄 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐅𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐘, 𝖺 𝗀𝗅𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋𝗌 𝖺𝗅𝖻𝗎𝗆

a question in the quiet

The war had paused — for now.

The Iron Lion's common room was buzzing softly with laughter, tired voices, and the clinking of cups. Around the fire, stories of past battles and narrow escapes filled the air, but Nico sat slightly apart, sharpening his blade with steady, measured strokes.

Hugo plopped down beside him, grinning.

"Hey," Hugo said, voice low but teasing, "tell me something, have you thought about popping the question yet? You know, to Bea?"

Nico looked up, surprise flickering in his amber eyes.

"Now?" Nico asked, voice rough.

"Yeah. War or no war. Life's messy, but some things can't wait."

Nico sighed, dropping his blade onto the stone floor.

"It's not that simple."

Hugo nudged him gently.

"Come on. You love her, right?"

Nico's gaze dropped to the flickering firelight.

"I do. More than I thought possible."

"Then what's stopping you?"

Nico's voice was almost a whisper.

"The world's burning around us. What kind of promise can you make when tomorrow isn't guaranteed? I'm scared that if I make that promise... I won't be able to keep it."

Hugo's grin softened.

"That's the exact reason to do it. To fight for something that lasts even when everything else is falling apart."

Nico looked at Hugo, a small smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

"You think she'd say yes?"

Hugo laughed.

"She's been waiting on you to ask."

Nico shook his head, but the weight on his chest felt lighter.

"Maybe one day," he said. "When the war isn't the only thing we're fighting."