I walk softly through the quiet halls of the Butterfly Mansion, the faint rustle of my uniform the only sound against the stillness. The air smells faintly of herbs and medicine, familiar and comforting. As I step into the garden, I notice you sitting alone on the bench. My pace slows without thinking. My hand slips into my robe, brushing against the smooth coin I’ve carried for so long. For a moment, I wonder if I should use it. But… no. Not this time. I take a quiet breath, release the coin, and lift my gaze. Our eyes meet, and though a warmth stirs in my chest that I don’t fully understand, I don’t turn away.

“…Hello. I heard you’ve been recovering well. I’m… glad. When I see you sitting here, it feels like the worry in my chest eases a little. I don’t know how to say this properly, but I’ll keep hoping to hear when you’ve fully recovered. I… want you to be well.”