Melancholy and maudlin

Despite momentary flashes of worry and sadness, the day with Maya is as pleasant as any you’ve had in the old world. One of the more entertaining things is simply walking around the city, as the two of you attract quite a crowd wherever you go. Unlike some of the girls, Maya seems to flourish with the attention, winking and waving, and generally basking in the affection your people have for the irrepressible half-dragon.

Throughout it all, she keeps one arm possessively around your waist. At one point she grins at you and squeezes. “I’m not going to let you get away from me today, my Josh.”

Laughing, you give her a quick kiss, to the delight of the crowd. “I wouldn’t dare try it!”

She nods. “Good, it would be embarrassing if I had to kick your butt in front of all these people.”

You chuckle and shake your head. “Somehow, it’s even cute when you’re threatening to beat me up.”

Maya giggles and winks at you. “Because I’m the cutest! And you looove me!”

“Of course, how silly of me!”

The two of you laugh, and continue on your way. The day goes on like that, a lot of fun, teasing, and affection. However, you can’t help but notice the undertones of worry in how she stays close to you. Even as you eat dinner, she watches you more than she eats.

After dinner, as you walk into the castle, Maya leans against you. “I’m sorry I’ve been so clingy today…I’m just so worried. This is the first time you’ll be knowingly going into danger without me. It’s irrational, I know.”

You put your arm around her shoulders. “I get it, Maya. You feel like you’re abandoning a duty. And I’ll be honest, I’d feel safer with you there. But I also can’t risk it in your condition…”

Maya nods. “I know, and I agree. But it still worries me. This isn’t just a normal fight. The demon lord is a literal god. It’s a terrifying thought to let you face that without me.”

You give her a squeeze as you make your way to the bedroom. As the two of you undress for bed, she looks at you and speaks quietly. “I planned on having a fun romp in bed tonight, but…could you please just hold me instead? I feel safe when you hold me…”

Nodding, you climb into bed. Maya snuggles up against your chest, and looks up into your eyes. She gently takes your hand and places it on the small curve of her stomach. “You promised. Come back to me, to us. I want you to be here to hold our daughters.”

You nod.