Colosseum II

The sight of Zilya had filled Avara with such elation she pounced, wrapping her arms around the little girl before she could breathe. She smelt of lavender, roses, and honey. It was a hug that instinctually brought a swelter of tears to the corner of Zilya's eyes as she turned to face Avara, reciprocating the hug. 

Aurelia was stunned, her heart pounding in her chest. She'd known this past year that Avara had been caring for Zilya, seeing them eat lunch and dinner on occasion, but she hadn't imagined it had reached such a level. The sight of their emotional reunion left her breathless, a lump forming in her throat.

"Jealous?" Zariel asked, his voice laced with a hint of amusement as he noted that unmistakable thread of green envy coiling around her. 

"Maybe," she whispered, uncertain herself. Her eyes flickered between the two before she nudged Zariel on the arm, managing a smile. "What about you? Don't you miss the warmth of hugs or the tenderness of kisses?"