A Revival of Rule (part 1)

Nazneen held Ares tightly, feeling the warmth and solidity of his embrace, the reassurance that he was alive and well. She didn't let go for a long moment, just holding him as if he might slip away if she did. She finally pulled back and looked up at him, her eyes red from tears and her expression raw and vulnerable. Ares met her gaze steadily, understanding in his own eyes.

Without a word, Ares lifted a hand and brushed her hair back from her face, bringing comfort to her. She was still tense from the nightmare, her body trembling slightly. He drew her into his arms again and stroked her back gently. She wrapped her arms around his waist, keeping in mind that she was strong and couldn't hug him as tightly as she wanted. 

"It was just a nightmare," he said softly, his voice a low rumble in the stillness of the room.

"It felt real. I saw you die and I couldn't prevent it."

He stiffened.