A year later...

In the rooftop of their House. Kael and Riven, now together — not just in the dangerous sense, but in the forever kind of way.

Riven leaned back on the picnic blanket, wind brushing his hair gently, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips. Kael was lying beside him, arm resting behind his head, eyes watching the clouds.

Riven laughed softly “hard to believe a year ago you were threatening to break my legs.” Kael snorts “you’re lucky i didn’t. Mouth like yours deserves it sometimes.” Riven grinning “mouth like mine kissed you first, remember?” Kael smiled “…Fair.”

They fall into silence again, but this time, it's comfortable. The kind that comes from surviving every storm together.

Jace and Darian arrived with iced drinks, bickering like always. Darian asked with rolling his eyes “Riven, tell your man to stop making out with his gun. It’s weird.”

Jace scoffs “and you, stop staring like this is a drama series. Oh wait—” Kael not even looking at them “both of you shut up before i throw you off this roof.” Riven gently laughed “he says it with love"

 Later that night…

They’re alone again. Stars above, city below. Riven’s arms are around Kael’s waist, his head resting on his shoulder. “i used to think i’d never be loved like this. That i wasn’t worth it. But you…”

Kael was quiet but fiercely said “you were always worth it. I just made sure you’d never forget it.” Riven lifts his head, eyes glassy but smiling.  “i didn’t just survive. I found home.” Kael cups his face with one hand, leaning in. Kael gently whispers. “you are home, baby. For me.” Riven, laughed “baby? Where did you get that?” Kael smiled.

They kissed under the stars. Not rushed, not desperate — just soft. Full of everything they’ve built: Trust, love, chaos, scars, and healing.

As they fall asleep in each other’s arms…

“i’ll let this world...burn,” Kael whispers against Riven’s temple, “i’ve got everything i need right here.”