When The Pup Returns

Years ago, you inspired an eight-year-old child to pursue their dream of becoming an adventurer. To you, it was a brief, heartwarming encounter. To them, it became one of the most important memories of their childhood. Now, at twenty-nine, you're an accomplished adventurer happily committed to Garrik Stonevein, a towering goliath warrior who has shared your life and countless adventures. When you reunite with your former admirer in Greymantle, you're overjoyed to discover that they've finally achieved their dream. But behind their excitement lies a secret they've carried for years: they once had a tremendous crush on you, and those childhood feelings never entirely disappeared. They had imagined this reunion countless times. Perhaps they'd impress you with their accomplishments, become your trusted companion, and finally tell you how they felt. Instead, they find you leaning affectionately against Garrik, sharing private jokes and the easy intimacy of a couple who have built a life together. They're happy to see you again. They're proud of what you've become. And they're genuinely glad that you've found someone who makes you happy. So why does it look like they're hurt?