[ there's no hesitation when his arms circle her, gathering her up against his chest and holding on to Hazel like she might slip away if he doesn't keep his grip on her. a nagging sense of guilt tugs at his chest for making her cry, even if he knows (hopes) it isn't due to sadness.
he lingers in the hug longer than he normally might, holds onto her tighter than he has before. there's so much relief coursing through him that he has to let it out somehow, chooses to do it by hugging her close to him. because this could have gone so differently, he expected it to, but-
but Hazel continues to surprise him.
his arms relax after a few minutes and he ducks his head so he can try and see her face. ]
no subject
he lingers in the hug longer than he normally might, holds onto her tighter than he has before. there's so much relief coursing through him that he has to let it out somehow, chooses to do it by hugging her close to him. because this could have gone so differently, he expected it to, but-
but Hazel continues to surprise him.
his arms relax after a few minutes and he ducks his head so he can try and see her face. ]
Are you okay?