[Maria didn't move away when she felt Shadow's head rest against hers. She of course leaned into him in return, though her eyes were on her Shadow standing before her. There was a long pause where she wasn't sure if he'd even take her hand and her fingers trembled a little. When his hand reached out to gently take hers, she shuddered with an exhale; gripping his hand tight enough to cause her knuckles to turn white. She could feel the other Shadow holding her other hand and feel his warmth at her side. Grounding her. She shivered as if cold beneath his arm.

Biting her lip, she gives her Shadow's hand a tug, trying to bring him in closer.]

I....I know you want to leave. [She whispered, blue eyes bright as tears slid down her cheeks.] But...I'm just afraid that if you do...I-I'll never see you again. [It was an irrational fear, surely. She knew he lived to protect her and cared for her wellbeing despite his reserved nature. And...all the changes she'd seen in him.] At least let me hold you a little b-before you do.