incendia was used to being alone, and she expected that things would always stay that way. that changed, though, when a sweet young woman stumbled across her corner of the world. in spite of herself, incendia was smitten instantly. instead of chasing her away, like she had done with everyone else who crossed her path, she invited her into her home, and a bond was formed over their first cup of tea together. incendia was drawn to her, but she was happy enough to have her friendship. though she didn't stay long, illumine would return many times, over the months, and they would share tea and talk and laughter, and incendia's heart became more and more wrapped up in her. she had always been impulsive, but for once, she was willing to curb her impulses and just let things be.
still, while she was content with friendship, she wanted more, too, so one night as they were sitting by the fire, she turned to illumine and confessed her feelings for her. she was afraid it would ruin their friendship, but not knowing would be worse. besides, by that point, their friendship was strong, and she was almost sure that it could withstand anything. when illumine's answer was to lean towards her, incendia met her halfway in a searing kiss that felt more right than anything in the world had ever felt.
illumine stayed after that, and incendia was more than happy to make more room in her life to share it with the woman she loved. the two of them were happy, and incendia realized that everything was so much better when she wasn't alone.
