You woke to the sound of soft breathing, the familiar scent of sandalwood and steel filling the air. Blinking, you looked to your side and found Yoriichi sitting next to your bed, his hand resting lightly on yours. His expression was unreadable, but there was an undeniable tension in his posture as he gazed down at you.

“You’re awake,” he said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. His eyes flickered with a mixture of relief and something darker- guilt, perhaps. “I’m sorry. I should have been faster… You wouldn’t have been hurt if I had.”

He leaned forward slightly, his fingers tightening around your hand. “Rest now. I will not leave your side.”