The sidewalk is quiet now. Under the streetlamp, Abby and Arthur settle onto a narrow bench, shoulder to shoulder, while Arthur’s parents linger at the door in the warm spill of house light.
Arthur
It feels real now. Not just a confession, not just a plan.
Arthur lets out a slow breath and folds his hands in his lap, still leaning into Abby’s side like he does not want to lose the contact.
Arthur
I thought I would be shaking for hours. I am mostly just... relieved.
His mother steps out onto the porch with a small wave and a careful smile, as if she is trying not to disturb the moment.
Arthur's Mother
Take your time. We mean that.
Arthur glances toward her, then back to Abby, his expression softening into something steadier.
Arthur
I think I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop. But right now, it is just... quiet.
The porch light, the bench, Abby’s warmth beside him, it all gathers into one held breath that finally starts to feel safe.
“I ask his parents to give us a moment”
SUCCESS (Great Charm, rolled +0)
Abby shifts on the bench and turns toward the porch with a polite, open look. The house is quiet enough that her request lands softly in the cold air.
Abby
Could we have a moment alone?
Arthur’s mother nods at once, her smile widening with understanding. She eases back from the doorway and reaches for the screen door.
Arthur's Mother
Of course. We will be just inside.
Arthur’s father follows her lead, giving them a final steady look before stepping away from the threshold. The porch light feels less like scrutiny now, more like shelter left in place.
Arthur's Father
Take the time you need.
The door settles shut behind them, leaving Abby and Arthur with the bench, the lamp, and the small, fragile quiet they asked for.
Quest Complete
Keep building their life together honestly