#big boy

As his enormous arms surrounded the cabin with great care. Sun rays caressed his shoulders gently, reminding him of where his tiny friend had just been sitting. The remaining sensation of her body still tickled the side of his neck. He’d never forget how her thighs felt clinging on to him. They were just so … soft. And even if it was barely perceptible to him, Finch could feel all her little strength like a tiny pinch on his shoulders. Oh, and the way her arms held him … 

What was he thinking?! 

A wave of guilt overturned him immediately the second he became aware of these thoughts. 

Finch didn’t quite understand it. But he knew it was wrong! So wrong! Why couldn’t he stop thinking about her?! She was just so kind and patient with him. Not to mention stunning as well … He wouldn’t be surprised if each time she visited the village, human men would find themselves drawn to such oneiric beauty. For some reason, just imagining Lavender surrounded by other men made him strangely upset. Ugh! Why was he getting all weird and nervous with his own hypotheticals! 

Eventually, the dark mantle of a silent night arrived. Finch didn’t want to overthink why he hadn’t heard anything from the fairy in a while. After all, she was most likely resting by now.  

The only thing left for him to do was put his monstrously huge body to good use and protect her little cottage with his life. Well … it’s not like it was anything near of a hard task for him. But the giant liked to believe it was the sentiment that counted. Though, he’d prefer if those green little creatures kept their distance.  

His night vision wasn’t the best, but if he were to focus slightly on the foliage. There they were. A dozen pairs of glowing golden eyes scattered around the perimeter. Staring at the behemoth of a man rabidly, knowing their prey would live to see another day.  

No wonder Lavender was so desperate for protection.  

Finch stared at them back. Despite hating the fear he caused on other beings. A part of him was glad the little creatures opted to listen to their instinct. Cause this time around, it’d be the smartest choice.  

“If you take a step closer, I’ll …” None of them did. Fortunately, he didn’t have to start swatting them around to get his point across. Although, if it meant ensuring Lavender’s safety, he wouldn’t mind playing the bad, scary giant.  

Suddenly, a flash of the past invaded him for an instant. A horrified stare. 

… what the hell was that? 

His temples and the back of his skull burned profusely just at the thought. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t decipher where did that came from. Thus, and yet again, Finch couldn’t sleep. As he was being accompanied by insomniac crickets, which serenaded his nerves and drowned tiny shrieks emerging from the cabin.  

… Wait.  

Was she crying? This was bad. Did he do something wrong?! 

Was he holding the cabin too tightly?!  

— … Lav? — he pondered as quietly as his bumbling nerves allowed him to.   

No response. He needed to get a grip of himself. The least she needed was for Finch to make things worse by overreacting.   

"Just breathe." — Hey a-are you okay? — His tone was doing a horrible job of hiding his fear. Painstakingly, he managed to place his ear in contact with the roof. After a few seconds, tiny mutters could be heard from inside. The fairy seemed agitated and … agonizing.  

A part of him wanted to just rip the roof open and shelter her with his own hands. It would be so simple, just one motion, and she would be safe! 

… What the hell was wrong with him?! 

Monster or not. He shouldn’t think this way! He had to get it together. 

— Lavender?! — He pleaded louder this time. His pulse was muffling his common sense. And his lungs were trying their best to keep up the pace.  

No one answered. Why was no one answering?! Just a tiny series of shrieks. But he couldn’t get any of them! On his desperate state, Finch desperately begged Mother Earth to shrink him. Just for a little while! Just small enough so he could enter her home and check if she was okay.  

Of course, nothing happened. 

A normal person could just get in and help her! That’s what a decent friend would do! But he couldn’t even dare to attempt to open the door without risking it would just end up flying off its hinges.  

Even the curtains were drawn, so he couldn't peak inside! 

Out of the blue, a tiny, frightened gasp reached his ears. Followed by hyperventilating breathing. 

— Are you hurt?! — He didn’t quite realize just how much he raised his tone. 

Her voice felt like the lack of moonlight softly caressed his cheeks. — I-I’m fine. I just had a bad dream is all.  S-sorry … I didn’t mean to worry you. — Almost imperceptible. Sweet yet shaky. And extremely terrified.  

Of him. 

Oh no …

 Wait, bad dream? … D-did he terrify the crap out of her this morning that she ended up having a nightmare?! 

He also felt so guilty after she apologized. After all, she wasn’t the one who was about to rip the roof open like an animal. Just then did Finch realize how brutish his actions were. As shame started choking him and the dim sound of shackles reminded him of his place. 

Why did he have to raise his voice like a giant idiot?! No wonder Lavender still feared him! 

 — … Can you hear me? — It seemed as if she yelled as loudly as she could. Still, her voice was barely there. Lost among the howls of the wind. Why did it sound so distant?! Fear overtook his chest. 

— I can but ... just barely. — The only thing he could do was answer the truth. What is this? This wasn’t fair to her … she shouldn’t have to yell just to be heard.  

And that’s when Finch remembered the obvious: the fairy had to be back to her original size by now … “You think a flightless fairy would’ve survived if she stayed three inches?! That’s the size of my pinky!” The mental image of the fairy raising her hands to him popped up. Her tiny, fragile little fingers … which all fitted perfectly on the tip of his nose.   

—  … I’m the one who should apologize. — He whispered, or at least … he thought he did; ocean eyes glued to the shingles. — Am I being too loud? I-I can stop talking if you’d like. — The giant bit his tongue in regret while stumbling over his words.  “Idiot.” 

Suddenly everything started to spin erratically as the realization of it all sank in. Every part of his body felt heavier. As all the leaves began rustling harder, the chant of crickets was louder, and a couple of bears started fighting for no reason! The giant could hear absolutely everything around the forest. Everything … except for her. She remained silent, or at least he couldn’t hear anything!   

His body felt hot and cold at the same time. He definitely had to look like a monster to her now. A mountainous beast.  "Get a hold of yourself.” He had to remain gentle.  

No matter what. No matter how small she was.   

She was still the woman who had accepted his friendship, despite all her doubts. The giant just hoped that she would see it in the same way. No matter how monstrously huge he seemed to the fairy, he’d never do anything to hurt her. She knew that … right?  

Much to his surprise, Lavender’s velvet voice reached him again. — Don’t, please. — she answered with an odd sense of urgency. For a moment, he almost forgot what he had asked in the first place. — Could you just … whisper to me until I fall asleep? — She pleaded.  

… huh? 

An amused chuckle almost escaped from his lips as his stiff shoulders eventually relaxed. Once again, the fairy left him speechless. Despite their bizarre circumstances. Despite the fact that he could now easily hold her just with the tip of his finger … Lavender continued to treat him like a person.  

How could he refuse such a favor? In fact, how could he refuse anything if it came from her?  

And so, after questioning her if she had finally eaten something. Finch proceeded to awkwardly narrate to his little friend about the first time he got to pet a bear cub a couple centuries ago.   

Maybe it was for the best that Finch couldn’t see her. The cabin indirectly became a barrier that fortunately hid them from each other. As indulging in their presence would end up being too much for each other. Especially for the little fairy …   

 Oh well … at least she was alright, and they could still pretend all of this was completely normal. His jaw started hurting. Nevertheless, the giant managed to fall asleep while still surrounding the cabin gently with his arms.  

Even if the sea of nerves on his mind had subsided, something else disturbed slightly the waves of his subconscious. Something new and old at the same time.  

Ever so slightly.  

Ever so … 

… 

Morning arrived lazily and surprisingly quiet, through dim sun rays accompanied by big drowsy clouds. 

A couple of ravens had found their way to rest upon the top of the giant’s head. As he remained in the same position as last night. Fortunately, this time around he got to stretch his legs alongside the mountain range.    

Eventually, the tiniest voice carried him back gently from a deep slumber. — Finch? — the fairy pondered.  Slowly but surely, he regained consciousness right in time to register where his arms were located before making any regretful movements. 

—… Finch, you awake? — She questioned patiently. "What a pretty voice." 

— Huh? Yeah, I’m up. Good morning, Lav. — The giant drew out groggily. The fluttering sound indicated the bird's departure. — How did you sleep? Any nightmares? 

He hoped his "just woke up" voice didn’t come out as creepy or intimidating. Especially since he forgot he had to whisper. Crap. The last thing he wanted was to burst her eardrums. The remaining lethargy on his mind evaporated. As Finch, could only gulp in regret. Wait. Were her ears capable of catching that? 

Could she hear his heartbeat?! 

— ... Luckily no, heh. — The little fairy responded calmly. Though, she couldn’t hide the slight tremble in her voice.  

He knew it. All too well.  

—  Though, I hate to break it to you. But I fell asleep right after the part where you found the bear’s den in your story. — She teased as usual, as if she were in complete control of the situation.  

With the quietest smile, he managed to reply softly. — Ouh, but that was the best part. — He played along. She was just too cute! Was it wrong that a part of him wanted to nuzzle the shingles with his cheek? ... 

 Urgh! Why did he have to be such a creep?!  

        —  W-well, I’m glad I could help you out. — He managed to respond with a murmur.  

The mental image of the tiny fairy resting on the pillow of her now immense bed, made his heart warm while causing a rather uncomfortable knot on his throat all at the same time. It was a peculiar duality his mind hadn’t gotten used to yet. 

— Yep! Your voice at this volume can be rather soothing. — Lavender peeped weirdly energetic ... did something else happen yesterday? 

— Soothing … —  The word in it of itself seemed so unfamiliar... Who in their right mind would describe him like that?! Was she feeling okay? — I think we have different definitions for soothing. 

— You’d be surprised but, it’s like a gentle rumbling, you could say ... when you’re whispering. — She clarified between a giggle that caused goosebumps all over his spine. 

Perhaps her and Charlie weren’t as different as he once thought. 

As their conversation flowed smoothly; between whispers and screams. His ears slowly found its way towards the shingles once again. Lavender answered all his doubts patiently and explained how she made it work with her small stature. She insisted that she had everything she needed right at her bedside table, where she was currently staying. Though it bothered him a bit that he couldn't do anything else to help her.  

Now that he was calm, if he were to close his eyes, Finch could easily imagine the little fairy at her human size just sitting on the rooftop. Right next to him. While her pretty hair danced with the summer breeze. It was silly, but he felt like a dragon guarding a princess at the top of the tallest tower. Just like in the stories Charlie used to read to him ... although, giants and dragons were usually the villains. 

... Why didn't he remember any of that until now? What was the first story he ever read to him? 

A small voice brought him back from his trance. — Hey, are you alright? I-I can’t talk any louder than this! — She peeped. 

— Ah, sorry. I ... got distracted, heh. — He attempted to clarify in a mumble. — W-what were you saying? 

A theatrically offended scoff could be heard from inside. — I was saying that I'm feeling a lot better now. I can prepare the protection spell ... s-so you can stop taking care of me. — The fairy reassured. It was their plan after all, but a part of him didn't want to leave. Moving meant shaking the ground, and he didn't want to traumatize the fairy all over again. — Didn't you tell me that you usually clean the forest after a big storm? I don't want to waste your time.  

He had completely forgotten about everything regarding the forest. Usually, he would’ve done it by now. But what he couldn't understand was why Lavender thought she was bothering him. She even said something similar yesterday.  

Why did she think she was such a burden?  

Or perhaps … his presence had become too overwhelming to her, and this was her way of letting him know.  

Yeah … that must be it.  

He began, unaware of his pouty lip. — I don’t mind taking care of— The telltale signs of hoofs broke his sentence.  

Were there two of them?  

Four?  

— What’s wrong? — The fairy pondered nervously. The hoofs were now mixing up with footsteps. 

Maybe even six? 

Where were them? 

— Something’s getting closer. — Finch warned; his body tensed up while he rapidly inspected the foliage. There were no signs of goblins or any animal for that matter. — But I can’t see anything. 

Something so small that he couldn't see wouldn't be able to make such noise. His hand unconsciously barricaded the cabin door. 

A small shaky voice caught his attention. — Are you sure this is a good idea? — It whispered. 

The giant opted to remain silent, so as to reveal their location.  

— No clue, but she stole from us again! — A second voice responded, more nervous than the last. 

Were they talking about Lavender? No matter how hard he looked, there was nothing but grass and a lonely apple tree.  

He could've sworn he heard a mumble from the cabin. 

— But the big guy freaks me out! — The leaves rustled slightly. His confusion outweighed his guilt. He couldn't avoid finding the nickname funny. 

 —  Guys ... — A third, more centered voice emerged. Though, it seemed like all of them came from the same location. Finch had to fight his urge to rub his eyes; something told him he was going insane. 

The first one chimed in. — Oh, he’s harmless! I saw him once cry watching a pigeon learn how to fly.  

His face felt warm from embarrassment.  

— Well, I saw him crush a tree by accident! — The giant was aware that various creatures had observed him from the sidelines throughout his life. But this was something else. He also would’ve preferred that Lavender didn’t hear that last part. 

— Guys! — The third voice fruitlessly attempted yet again to intervene. 

— You worry too much Opal. It’s not like he can see us! — The leaves rustled yet again. His gaze fixated on the back of the trunk.   

— Yeah, but we’ve never gotten this close!— It spat. The patch of grass beneath the tree shifted oddly. 

— Finch. — Lavender finally chipped in. — They're druids. Shapeshifters. For the most part their harmless but … 

But what? 

Dark eyelashes squinted in thought. — Guys! He’s staring!  

Abruptly, the space beside the trunk distorted slightly. Revealing three odd little creatures out of thin air. Finch couldn't dare move a muscle, yet his brows furrowed on their own. He'd seen their kind before, yet until now he learned what they were called. 

—Gah! Juniper, w-why didn't you say anything before! — The one in the center yelped while placing their trembling body between the other two and the giant. All of them had humanoid features, yet they also had silver hair, and their heads were beautifully adorned with curved horns and fluffy ears. The only male looking one had deer hind legs which remarked his skittish movements. 

— I did! But you never listen to me! — The one on the left snapped back. None of them broke eye contact with the giant. 

All of them stared at him in horror. As if at any point he was going to snatch them away from the tree. 

The sheer thought made him nauseaos. 

— Stop fighting! — The last one begged and with the weakest tone managed to mutter. — ... Perhaps he'll just let us take what's ours? — It appeared as if the little being were about to pass out. 

Lavender scoffed, although it wasn't loud enough for the creatures to hear. — They believe for some reason that the apple tree belongs to them. — She revealed without trying to hide her frustration.  

Oh, that explains a lot.  

It took less than two seconds for the creatures to start bickering and arguing recklessly with each other, as if he wasn't there. It seemed none of them had an actual plan, not even the one who wanted to warn them about Finch. The giant had no clue what he should do. For a moment, the druids resembled wild human children, as their dispute was rapidly invaded by chaos. The song of cicadas adorned his bewilderment.  

It took a bit until he could find an opportunity to intervene. Finch inferred it was best not to make sudden movements, so he could only muster to tilt his head slightly. Hoping that would make him seem slightly less threatening.  

— Hi, can I-uh, help you? — Silence fell instantly, as the trio of druids were reminded of his presence. All of them could easily be mistaken as humans, if one were to only focus on their faces and clothing. Still, as Finch finally got a chance to observe their features, he realized just how big their eyes appeared, similar to prey animals. His gaze fixated mainly on the one in the center. His shaggy, silver hair, his arched nose and elongated face seemed oddly familiar

... too familiar. 

 — W-wait, are you ... Oak? — Finch questioned innocently, without even realizing he knew that name until it came out of his mouth. He wasn't sure who that was, but something told him his subconscious did. He'd seen that face before.  

The creatures gave him a perplexed look and stared at each other in disbelief. — You have the wrong druid, big guy. That's my grandpa. — The being scratched the nape of his neck; poorly attempting to appear untroubled. — He said you might get confused. Though, I personally don't see the resemblance. — The being grumbled that last part mostly to his companions who hadn't stopped using him as a living shield. The short-haired one seemed to be in awe, while the other continued to tremble in fear.  

He couldn't stand that look in their eyes; it made his heart ache profusely. The giant fought the urge to appear smaller. After all, he still needed to protect Lavender.  

— A-anyways, the name's Bo. And as representatives of our kind, my siblings and I kindly ask you to step back so we can discuss with the renegade fairy. — The little being stood up straight and stared right through him.  Despite being terrified, Finch knew he was making such an effort. Part of him wanted to commend the little one for acting so bravely.  

—Oh, nice to meet you Bo, — He couldn't grant their request, so being polite was the least he could do. His gaze landed upon the other two. Juniper and Opal, if he wasn't mistaken. But he couldn't decipher which one was which. — ... and company. I’m Finch.  

— Isn't that a human name? — One in the back whispered to their siblings. Clearly unaware that the behemoth could hear them.  

"Remain gentle, don't raise your voice."  — I'm sorry, but I can't do that. — He informed with the warmest, most apologetic tone he could manage. 

The druids stared at each other, analyzing the situation.  — What do we do?! — The long haired one fretted in a murmur.  

— Relax, I got this. — Bo replied in the same manner. Swiftly, he faced him once again.  

The little one placed his hands on his waist. — All fairies do is lie and cheat. Trust me, you don't wanna get involved with any of them. Especially that one. — He gestured with his head towards the cabin. His last words left a bitter taste on the giant's throat. Feeling slightly offended on behalf of his friend. Lavender was nothing like that ... right? 

Nevertheless, he couldn't dare show his discomfort. Not even a bit.  

— She stole our tree. We just want to take it back to where it belongs. — The druid on the right attempted to reason with him. Guilt grappled his chest  

He nodded while weighing his choices. — I was the one who uprooted it. I didn’t know it belonged to anyone.  

Suddenly Bo appeared to have an 'Aha!' moment. As if the final missing piece had fallen in place. — Oh, so she fooled you to do her bidding, huh? Don't worry Finch, we'll just take it back after we have a word with her.  

Why were they so adamant about speaking with her? Did they know how small she was now? And if they did ... what would they do to her? Three against one already seemed unfair. They didn't seem to have an apparent malicious intent. But he'd rather not risk it.  

Unbeknownst to him, Lavender was fuming. — Tell Bo he can eat my!— 

— She’s not feeling well right now! — The giant interjected louder than he would've anticipated due to the shock. His face was invaded by a pink tinge of shame. He immediately went stiff when he noticed. 

As the druids had already backed away, covering their ears. There it was again.  

That horrified stare. Why couldn't he ... 

If the humanoid creatures had reacted that way. He couldn't even fathom how terrified his three-inch-friend must be.  

"Idiot!" 

Mentally, he reached for his handcuffs once again. And this time, he made sure to tighten them shut. If Lavender were to give him that exact look now, he would've burst into tears and bury himself alive. 

He cleared his throat as quietly as he could. — I-I mean-uh, she didn’t ask me to take the whole tree. That was my idea. — He admitted. The druids fortunately didn't seem to want to flee yet. — So, technically, I was the one who stole from you.  

— … Are you sure? — Bo's tone was full of incredulity. — Fae tend to trick other creatures for their own benefit. It's kinda like their thing. — He assured with certainty while his siblings nodded. 

— Bullshit! — The little woman grumbled. — Ugh! I'm going to kill him next week!  

— Please don’t. — Finch implored while staring at the roof. The druid's horns seemed rather flammable.  

The creatures didn't understand who he was talking to though, so they could only stare at him rather confused. His gaze returned to them. — I'm sorry, Lavender had nothing to do with this. This is all on me.  

— Hey, you don't need to take the blame. — She reassured scoldingly. — Druids just think they own everything! 

The corners of his lips quirked up softly. — So, if you need to discuss something with anybody, it should be me. 

Blue eyes found themselves staring at the three creatures, as his features were naturally filled with kindness. He wasn't about to argue with beings a hundred times smaller than him. Whether the tree belonged to them or not was between their kind and the rest of the inhabitants in the forest. 

Bo exchanged looks full of skepticism with his siblings, without saying a word. As if staring at each other gave them the ability to communicate telepathically. Maybe it was the case, yet the giant man had no way of knowing. 

 — Alright. Would you be willing to give us our tree back and place it where it belongs? It'd be way easier if you did, big guy. — He queried.  

Finch bit the inside of his cheek in contemplation. He could easily do it, but... 

The long-haired druid tried to say something yet couldn't find the courage. — Please, it has been one of our sources of sustenance for generations. — The other fretted. 

— I see. — He would've never imagined that such simple action would affect the order of the forest so much. Then again, he hadn't been awake for a long, long time. — Perhaps we could reach an agreement?  

Bo's eyes drifted to various directions, processing what he just said. —... huh?  

However, his short-haired sibling covered his mouth before the druid could speak. — What kind of agreement? — They questioned dubiously. 

All of them got closer. Even if it was subconscious, it was a clear sign that they were less scared. Or their curiosity was greater. His heart tingled slightly. Finch couldn't recall when was the last time he had exchanged so many words with more than one person! 

Who wouldn't be ecstatic? 

His brows furrowed in thought. — Well, if you're so desperate for getting this tree back, I'm guessing you don't have plenty to eat. — He hoped that didn't come off as disrespectful. Yet, it strangely made sense. Even if, throughout all his waking moments, the soil had always been rich and full of life.  — S-so, I'll plant as many fruit trees as you desire if you let my friend keep this one.  

— ... friend? — Bo had already managed to remove his sibling's hand out of his mouth. He stared at the giant as if he had two heads. 

— Oh, Finch ... — The fairy sighed. — You don't need to do all that. — Dimples decorated his features. 

But he did. Instinctually, he knew it was his responsibility. And maybe that would give him a chance to discover the mysteries of his apparently broken mind. It could even be possible that the grandfather of this trio had some answers. Besides, this was the perfect opportunity to get close in a non-threatening way! 

The druids began whispering to each other, weighing the pros and cons. Every couple of seconds, they would stare back distrustfully.  

They were taking an awful lot of time. He hadn't noticed how his stomach had become a ball of nerves until now. — Of course, you can take as many apples as you want while they grow. I-In fact, why don't you take some now? — Finch offered, staring anxiously at the fruit.  

Bo scoffed hesitantly; crossing his arms. — It's true that in the last couple of centuries we've been ... struggling to get by ... — His gaze found its way to the apple tree. The others avoided making eye contact with the giant.  

Who would've guessed these creatures were living in such distress? ... What happened while he was gone?  

— We want twenty-No! — Bo's raspy voice brought him back. — Fifty fruit trees planted by the end of summer! — He barked, probably louder than he expected. His deer legs were trembling incessantly. No matter how hard he tried, the little druid was still scared shitless. Nevertheless, he remained firm, staring at him defiantly. Even if they had just met. Finch couldn't avoid feeling proud of him. No one on their sane mind would even dare to get close enough to demand anything from a giant. 

He couldn't avoid letting out an amused scoff as he decided right there that he liked the kid. — I can get it done by the end of the month. — Finch revealed with a subtle challenging tone. 

A giggle arose from the little cottage. —  Look at you, sounding all confident. — The fairy flattered with an alluring cadence. 

— I’m just happy I get to help out. — He thought out loud. 

— Then I’m glad. — Just imagining Lavender’s smile while tilting her head to the side made his heart flutter in a way he’d never experienced before. The pink tinge had already expanded to the tip of his ears. 

The druids took a moment to get back to their senses. None of them could believe the mountain giant had not only agreed to their absurd request, but also that he assured he could get it done earlier.  

Bo smirked candidly. Juniper and Opal remained quiet, yet their black eyes were now twinkling with serene intrigue. — Y’know, you’re not what I would’ve expected. You’re not like ... any of us would’ve expected at all honestly. —  The druid admitted in between a nervous chuckle, right at the moment his arms surrounded each one of his siblings in a brutely caring manner. Causing one of them to almost trip over.  

However, when they realized their brother used the gesture in order to keep his composure, they instantly held him deftly in solidarity. Finch could only grin sheepishly in response. He knew that if he were to start thanking them all excitedly, he'd probably raise his volume by accident. Even so, internally his heart started jumping all over like a little kid. 

 — Can you start tomorrow? We need to prepare all the seeds. — The druid questioned eagerly, still holding on to their peers.  

— Yeah, it's actually perfect. — He nodded. That would give him just enough time to fix up the forest. 

Afterwards, the druids proceeded to each gather a handful of apples giddily. Their simple, energetic motions easily managed to reveal just how young they probably were. Finch's chest felt warm as his mind was still processing everything that had just transpired. 

Before the trio left, Bo skittishly turned back to the giant man. —  Hey, big guy ... —  Except this time, his demeanor showed no trace of terror. At first, his mouth opened, uncertain about what he should say. —  Thank you. — He simpered.  

The giant’s expression softened further when he noticed how their gazes glimmered hopefully. — It was nothing, kids. I’ll be at the pond tomorrow morning, okay? — Finch notified with a caring tone.  

There was nothing the little creatures could do to guarantee the giant was going to keep his promise. Nevertheless, they departed calmly; a full sense of tranquility filled their hearts, as their arms were filled to the brim with apples. A symbol of trust between the two races. And perhaps, even an olive branch from the fairy. 

— Wow, and to think I’ll have to share you from now on. —  The little woman quipped playfully. He knew that she was just joking, but he couldn’t help feeling oddly excited everytime she used that tone.  

Finch didn’t want her to stop teasing him.  

He suppressed a breathy chuckle. —You’re sure you’ll be alright? —  He questioned slightly worried, while his hand retreated from the entrance.  

— Yep, in fact, while you were chatting with your new friends, I had just enough time to perform the protection spell. —  Lavender affirmed.  

Surely enough, if the giant were to focus, he could manage to hear a sort of twinkling, hollow chant emerging from the cabin. Which apparently indicated traces of magic. A quiet expansion from his pupils revealed astonishment, barely perceptible. He would never stop feeling amazed at the little fairy's capabilities. — C-Can I still come to check up on you? I’ll be careful.  

—  I’m going nowhere, big guy. — She reminded him, using the new nickname to tease him even further. — It’ll actually be nice to have someone to talk to. Speaking of which, you could even save me from dying of boredom. — Finch hoped he’d be able to hear that laugh for the rest of his life. — Just ... please try not to shake the ground so much. 

His field of view registered carefully where all of his limbs were, as the giant nodded to himself. — I’ll do my best. — His tone was secure as it softly travelled through vibrations that caressed the fairy’s entire body. —  I promise. I’ll see you tomorrow then, yell if you need anything, okay? 

And with that, he painstakingly departed his friend's abode by crawling, trying to center his weight through every single movement. It turned out to be harder than he expected, as there were various instances where he couldn't tell where to place his folded knees. Fortunately, the behemoth didn't tumble or crush any trees, not even with his belly. Which even shocked him.  

Despite the sun rays that had gradually increased that morning, the fresh air of the forest still had traces of humidity. He hoped there wouldn't be any critters stuck amongst the wreckage of the storm. If that were the case, he owed more than just one apology. Eventually, the giant determined that he was far enough he could get up without disturbing Lavender. As his gaze elevated and the breeze became thinner, he felt the sudden urge to look back. It was baffling that the little cottage could appear even smaller from here. Almost imperceptible if he weren't looking for it.  

He couldn't help but wonder if he would even be able to see the fairy now if she weren't inside the cabin. Better yet, how would the fairy react? Would she eventually allow him to see her in her original form? Just imagining it made his head start spinning. And part of him knew it was best to stop haunting his consciousness with the impossible. 

It took an immense amount of strength for him to eventually continue the path to venture into the heart of the forest. Calculating each booming step like second nature through the uneven ground, moving and shifting his immense body so as not to disturb anyone. The remaining droplets from the treetops tickled his thighs and knees, reminding him of his unfinished task. Finch had just been so focused on absolutely everything regarding Lavender that he hadn't noticed all the branches and whole limbs from the trees that had ended up knocked down due to the storm, not to mention the immense amount of debris left by the tumbling mountains.  

Yesterday during their walk, nothing else mattered to him but her safety, as she quite literally trusted him with her life. Everything that didn't involve getting the fairy back home just seem to blur in a blink of an eye. A pit of worry slowly began to eat him whole. He was aware that he should have done this sooner, and yet, when the fairy asked for his help, he unconsciously abandoned everything else. Including his responsibilities.  

This discovery not only left him more confused than before, but it also began gnawing the back of his skull. Because, no matter how he put it, he didn't feel the usual suffocating guilt that pierced through his chest.  

He just couldn't. 

He inevitably found various sizes of piles scattered throughout the entire area; some hidden better than others beneath the foliage. Swiftly he got to work; strong hands began to gently pick up remnants of fallen pines and rocks, whilst his eyes remained attentive in order not to harm anyone that would've possibly gotten stuck amongst all the chaos. Fortunately, no critter or creature was trapped under the rubble. Finch just had to clean up the entries of multiple burrows and dens, which was entirely worth it. Since the cutest family of rabbits climbed into his palm. — Aren't you the sweetest little things? — With a single digit he methodically managed to pet them all.  

… Though, after a bit, they didn’t want to jump down. No matter how much the giant begged them. Thus, he had no choice but to do the rest with one arm. Which doubled the workload, but he didn't mind. He opted to put away anything that might get in the way near the remains of his mountain. When night fell, he placed the little fuzzballs on his chest and surprisingly fell asleep with ease under a mantle absent from moonlight; yet accompanied by the dim glow of stars. Reminiscing on little druids and a certain dragonfly fairy. 

The week flew by in a heartbeat, whilst his mind and body remained occupied under the summer heat. Working with Bo and the others turned out to be way more exhilarating than he would've expected. Through each new seed planted, the giant was finally able to distinguish Juniper from Opal. Even though neither of them dared yet to speak to him directly. Unlike their brother, who after getting over his initial doubts, started using Finch as his personal ladder.  

— See? I told you he was harmless! — The little druid boasted cockily to Opal while standing on his shoulder as if he were a pirate at the top of his ship's mast.  

The giant still couldn't wrap his head around how quickly other inhabitants revealed themselves to him as if it was nothing. He assumed it was because he had already managed to gain the trust of the peculiar trio. They explained to him that druids use their magic to hide their settlement from intruders, and that if the majority agreed, sooner or later their entire community would be revealed to him.  

Never in his long-lived existence had something like this happen, or at least he couldn't recall. It all seemed so surreal, as if out of nowhere he began living the life of somebody else. There wasn't a day that went by that didn't end up with his cheeks sore from smiling so much. And the best part was that each time the sun went down, he got to chat with Lavender until one of them fell asleep, who was usually the fairy. It was fascinating to realize that when she did sleep peacefully with her current form, her body would eventually glimmer golden or purplish hues which timidly revealed themselves to the giant through the corners of the curtain. 

A warm sense of peace gently surrounded him. 

On a particularly sunny day, Finch casually asked the druids if he could meet their grandfather. He couldn't stop thinking about his revelation regarding his memories. — Believe me, the old man wants to see you. But, he's not been feeling well lately and needs as much rest as he can get. — Bo insisted. — I basically had to strap him to bed this morning! — The giant understood and hoped for the best. Getting answers would have to wait.  

He was aware that perhaps his mind was just blowing all of this out of proportion. Hence, the reason why he hadn't told Lavender yet. He didn't want her to think that he had gone insane.  

However, on her end, across each moonless night it struck him that her playful demeanor had slowly dissipated. And almost every night, Finch would ask her if she was feeling alright and if she had eaten something. To which the fairy would give short answers or deflect, explaining that she was just exhausted and felt desperate for the next moon phase. — I'm just tired of feeling so weak. Don't worry about it, Finch. — She declared. But that's all his brain could do.  

Despite his growing doubts, the fairy unconsciously maintained his nerves at ease quite easily: She'd always ask him if he'd be back the next day. 

And of course, he did. 

On the last night of the week, Lavender shocked him when she spontaneously asked him if they could meet the next day by the pond in the evening. She even requested that he'd bring the shirt she had forgotten on his cave the night of the storm, because she needed it for "something special" and refused to explain herself even further. He had to suppress his excitement from such sudden invitation that taunted him with all the mystery surrounding it.  

Finch made sure to finish his work way earlier, so he could wash the little shirt as best he could and let it all day by the sun to dry. He was elated; it felt like an eternity ever since he had seen the fairy! 

What was this surprise about? 

Did she find something regarding whether she could shrink him? 

Or perhaps she only wanted some company? Then, what did she need the shirt for? 

Would she hate that his beard had already grown again? 

Questions like this filled his sporadic mind during the entire day.  

The crescent moon arose proudly to the entire forest. Its shine reflected seductively on the cool water of the pond, as the usual crickets, the howls of the wind and the occasional owl complemented its tempting serenade.  

The giant had managed to convince the same fawn he had terrified more than a week ago that he meant no harm as he profusely apologized while waiting for his friend to arrive. He had suggested carrying her like last time, to which the fairy respectfully rejected the idea. Mainly cause she missed being able to walk by herself. 

Currently, the little fawn was peacefully resting on Finch's palm near the pond. A single digit bigger than its entire head pet the creature with unexpected dexterity. He was desperately trying to calm his excitement by distracting himself, but to no avail, unbeknownst to the critter who was ever so slowly falling asleep.  

The fairy was taking an awful long time. It was rather odd; she didn't seem to be the type of person that showed up late for no reason. A knot began painfully forming on his throat imagining all kinds of "worst case scenarios". 

Had something happened to her? 

Was she in danger?! 

Even the tranquility of the pond was affected by the giant's nerves. His folded legs shifted slightly, anxiously sending vibrations to the body of water.  

Before Finch could stand up to look for her, however, a velvet voice reached him. 

— Fiiiiiiinch, where are youuuu? — She mused loudly in a drawled out singsong tone. But he couldn't find her exact location beneath all the treetops. Furthermore, her steps sounded closer, yet, for some reason, they stumbled on each other carelessly. He determined the best course of action was to not move an inch.  

... What was going on? 

The fairy even giggled strangely. — Come out, come out, where ever you aaare! — She went on; it sounded like she was imitating someone or something. But the mountain giant had no clue what came over her. 

—  Lav? —  He called out to her, though received no response. Perhaps the anticipation just made time pass at a turtle's pace. Yet when the fairy finally revealed herself, Finch instantly understood that something was definitely wrong. 

Lavender's beauty was truly accentuated by moonlight. Nevertheless, her long locks of hair covered most of her gorgeous face haphazardly. Which explained why she couldn't see him. But that wasn't the end of it. The corners of her lips were elevated into an enraptured smile; a type of smile he had never seen before on her. While her confident posture ironically seemed to barely hold her from just collapsing into the ground.  

On her right hand, the fairy sloppily held onto a weird little bottle he instantly recognized. He gulped. — H-hey ... Did you drink all that? — He pondered worringly. Lavender could only giggle excitedly in response.  

— Why? Do you want some? — The reflection of the glass almost blinded him.  

... He was speechless.