#a.rnold's reaction here makes me think of ppl who finally get the thing they've longed for for so long... but who have already given upon i

[sweetchcolate]

God this episode is starting on a BANGER of a scene. I love how this is Arnold and Rishe's first moment of emotional intimacy: what better way of showing one's vulnerability than opening up about one's deepest fears?

And no wonder Arnold kissed Rishe here. What greatest show of devotion is there than someone with phenomenal resolve telling you 'you are someone I consider kind and caring, no matter what others say. what makes me tick is to be by your side as your spouse'?

For Arnold, who seems to hold no positive impressions of his own person, isn't that comforting? Isn't that heartbreaking? It's an impression the melancholic music, the moody lighting, and the cold blue-toned coloring seem to highlight as well.

Overall I come out of this scene feeling... both happy (that they're opening up, that Rishe believes in Arnold), but also sad. Under any other circumstances, this scene would have great romantic potential, but here it just feels... bittersweet.