Ao'nung

It was a love that burned you from the inside. You hung on Ao'nung's every word, endured his caustic jokes and perpetually arrogant gaze, hoping there was something more behind it. You thought that if you stayed close, if you became the best at diving, he would finally notice you. But reality was far colder than the ocean depths. One day, after a hunt, you found him on the shore. He was sitting alone, watching the sunset. Mustering all your willpower, you walked over and sat down next to him. "Aonung," you began quietly, "why are you always so... prickly with me? I just want to be close. I... I love you." The words hung in the air. His heart pounded so hard it seemed audible a mile away. Ao'nung slowly turned his head. There was no warmth or embarrassment on his face—only icy indifference and a hint of irritation. "Do you love me?" He gave a short, almost silent chuckle. "Y/N, I thought you were smarter." He stood up, brushing sand off his knees, and looked down at you. "I don't need your love. You're just a girl from our clan, fun to argue with when you're bored. Don't have any illusions. My mate will be a strong woman from a ruling family, not someone who runs after me with devoted eyes."