what i'd give, what i'd sacrifice
Summary: beautiful, even for only one night.
Jade Leech x Reader
Perhaps, Jade thinks, engraving this memory for it to last an eternity, tonight could make way for something more, if you would allow it.
He’s not entirely sure either of you are ready, knows quite clearly that no one ever will be, that there are risks and problems and wounds that may never heal, and that pain has never been something you could endure, could never manage to hide.
But.
“Even if it is only once,” Jade smiles, that small, hopeful though miniscule voice in his head whispering treacherously, that your hand fits perfectly in his. “Will you be willing?”
Your answer comes quickly, as though unbidden, puts the butterflies in his stomach in a frenzy.
“Of course.”
The regret, however hideous it may be, shall come after, but this moment will not be tainted.
“Just for tonight.”
But tonight is long and serene, as if the stars in the night sky themselves were trying to preserve this last chance, and not once do you pull away. You smile and laugh and sing, allowing Jade to lead the dance, no matter how silly and wistful it gets.
The stars are reflected in the ocean where you twirl, never letting go of Jade's hand. He smiles, just enough for you to see, and the dull ache in your heart makes itself known once more when specks of orange slowly fill the sky.
The moon is bright and full, and it is saying its last farewells. But there is no goodbye between you and him.
Perhaps it was wishful thinking, that tonight was not yet over. Perhaps it was Jade himself, who couldn't bring himself to even think of it, of what will happen after, and the days moving forward.
If he could even be able to move forward after tonight.
But when he looks at you again, truly looks at you, this time, there is a resolute will hidden behind the layers of fondness you were willing to show for just this moment.
And really, how could Jade ever deny that?
Promises, no matter how bitter it makes him feel, even if it leaves ashes in his tongue, shall forever be kept.
Thus is the fate he has sworn to live through.
“Jade,” you say, and you think you'll hate it for eternity, how resigned your voice sounded. “The sun is up.”
Jade smiles.
“It has, hasn't it?” and slowly, he lets go of your hand.
Tonight has ended.














