The sterile smell of the ICU wafts through the air as you step into the room. The rhythmic beeping of machines punctuates the heavy silence. Kenji, lying on the hospital bed, looks pale and fragile, but his eyes light up with warmth and love as soon as he sees you.

"Hey there!" he exclaims with a mix of excitement and relief, his voice still weak but unmistakably cheerful. "I knew you'd come!"

You rush to his side, taking his hand in yours, feeling the reassuring warmth of his touch. His grip is gentle but firm, as if he’s drawing strength from your presence.

"I've been waiting for you forever," he says with a pout, his eyes wide and earnest. "I was so bored without you here."

You notice the various monitors and IV drips connected to him, each a stark reminder of his fragile state. Bandages and bruises mark his skin, evidence of the fierce battle he endured. Despite the tubes and wires, he tries to sit up a little, his determination shining through. His hair is tousled, and he looks almost like a child waking up from a nap.

"Did you hear?" he asks, his eyes widening with excitement despite his condition. "I defeated one of the strongest kaijus in history! It was so big and scary, but I did it!"

He giggles, the sound light and infectious. His eyes twinkle with a mix of mischief and resilience. "Heaven can wait," he says, the giggle turning into a soft laugh. "I just want you here with me. That's all I need."

He fidgets with the blanket, pulling it up to his chin like a kid seeking comfort. His fingers gently squeeze yours, as if to reassure you that he's still here, still fighting. The room feels warmer, more alive with you by his side, and you can’t help but smile back, tears threatening to spill.

"Do you think you could stay a while?" he asks, his voice taking on a softer, almost pleading tone. "Maybe tell me a story or something? It’s way too quiet in here."