[TIDK] 124 – In His Embrace

"No," came Viktor's straightforward reply.

Confused and hurt, Scarlett reminded him, "You said you liked sleeping with me."

"Think about what you're saying right now," Viktor cautioned, his gaze filled with a mix of concern and contemplation. He understood the gravity of Scarlett's request, the need for reassurance and protection.

Scarlett persisted, her voice filled with urgency, "Please help me out. If I forget again and come to see you... Stop me if I do something weird. Lock me up somewhere."

Viktor continued to scrutinise Scarlett, the weight of her words sinking in. After a brief pause, he finally spoke, his voice gentle yet resolute, "I'll help you. There's nothing to worry about. You can come to me every time. When you come to me, I'll write down everything you do during the time when you don't remember."

"Really?" Scarlett asked, a glimmer of hope appearing in her eyes.

"Yes," Viktor affirmed, offering her his unwavering support.

A sense of relief washed over Scarlett as she absorbed Viktor's commitment. Finally feeling a sense of calm, she attempted to pull away from Viktor's embrace. However, he refused to let her go, holding onto her arm and drawing her back into his warmth.

Surprised by his action, Scarlett looked up at Viktor, seeking an explanation. Viktor gently lifted her chin with his free hand, meeting her gaze directly. He posed a question, his voice filled with sincerity, "By the way, Scarlett."

Caught off guard, Scarlett replied, "Yes?"

"Do you trust me?" Viktor inquired; his words laden with vulnerability.

Scarlett nodded in response, her trust in him resolute. "Because you're rational."

A faint smile tugged at Viktor's lips as he recalled their previous conversation. "You said I was selfish."

Scarlett acknowledged his observation, nodding once again. "Yes. Both."

"What do you think I'm going to do to you when you don’t remember?" Viktor questioned, a hint of frustration in his voice.

"As long as I'm not a pirate... you wouldn't do anything wrong," Scarlett replied, her voice laced with a mix of resignation and exhaustion.

Viktor countered, "I can seduce you who forgets your divorce and sleep with you.”

Scarlett's response carried a weariness that hinted at acceptance, "It's... that won't be your fault."

"Why is it, not my fault?" Viktor probed.

"I've always been the only one fretting," Scarlett explained, a tired smile gracing her lips as she seemingly let go of some tension. "Always... I ran to you to hug you. So it's my fault if I forget my divorce and sleep with you. I'm sure."

Viktor chuckled, the meaning behind his laughter remaining enigmatic. With a subtle movement, he closed the door behind them, enveloping Scarlett in a warm embrace. With one arm securely around her, his other hand caressed her cheek tenderly.

"Why don't you just live here? If you're nervous," Viktor proposed his words offering consolation and strength.

Scarlett's response was a soft gasp, her mind processing the unexpected offer. "Oh..."

"I told you. I liked living with you," Viktor continued, his voice filled with sincerity.

Scarlett's thoughts swirled as she weighed her options. Viktor's words lingered in the air, and she found herself looking into his eyes, seeking guidance and assurance. Sensing her contemplation, he gently lifted her chin with his fingertips, their eyes meeting once again.

"Hmm? Scarlett?" Viktor prompted, waiting for her decision.

"I'll think about it..." Scarlett responded, her voice carrying a mix of uncertainty and hope.

//this situation would be so weird irl

It was like now.

As Viktor's touch brought back memories of their time together, Scarlett found herself reminiscing about the moments they shared. He had never been overtly affectionate, but everything felt sweet and serene in his presence. It was a respite from the chaos of the world.

In her current state of confusion and uncertainty, Viktor's offer to live together seemed enticing to Scarlett. It held the promise of stability and support during her turbulent journey. Yet, beneath the allure of sweetness, a lingering emptiness remained within her for the past two years. The void was a constant reminder of her perceived inadequacies compared to Viktor's seemingly perfect existence. It gnawed at her, a continuous stream of discontent in her pursuit of happiness.

Scarlett couldn't help but feel that she had not only failed to reciprocate his love but had also placed shackles around his ankle, preventing him from reaching his lifelong aspirations. Guilt racked her.

She cried silently until she collapsed from exhaustion. Witnessing her distress, Viktor gently lifted her and carried her to bed. Despite his efforts, Scarlett remained restless, her body trembling with unease. Determined to help her settle, Viktor retrieved the alcohol he often relied on for such situations.

Offering her a glass, Viktor spoke softly, "Whisky?"

Scarlett, her hands trembling, accepted the glass and inquired, "Will it help?"

"Drink and rest," Viktor replied, his voice laced with concern.