Understanding dawned for both Erik and Runa. 'So, kind of just protectiveness, I guess,' Erik realised inwardly, not bothered by it. He was possessive of his women, but not to the point where he'd be disturbed by other men in their lives—certainly not when those men were essentially family.
Besides, Kudzai was obviously prey, not predator. He was no threat.
A sigh from Runa interrupted his thoughts. Slowly, his mother leaned forward again, placing her elbows on the table as she looked at Naeku sombrely. "After losing Silvy's father, I don't believe I will ever meet another man whom I'll truly love romantically. Care deeply about, sure, but not love."
Naeku instantly surged forward, looking deeply into Runa's eyes as she grabbed the opening. "Then—!"
"But that's not what you said," Runa interrupted her sternly. "You said your promise involved someone 'he' loves, not necessarily the other way around, right?"
