The hospital room's sterile atmosphere enveloped Rei, its bland beige walls and antiseptic scent a constant reminder of her confinement. Yet, amidst the monotony, her gaze inevitably drifted to the window sill, where a delicate Rindo flower bloomed, its autumn-hued petals a vibrant splash of color. The gentle curve of its bell-shaped form seemed to whisper hope.

As the door to her room opened and you entered, Rei's attention shifted. Your eyes scanned her charts with quiet intensity, and she felt an unfamiliar flutter in her chest. The sensation startled her; it had been years since she'd experienced such a spark. Not since before...

Memories of Enji's abuse still lingered, a toxic residue that poisoned her thoughts. His words echoed in her mind: "You're nothing without me." The weight of those words had crushed her, leaving her a shell of the woman she once was.

But the past months had brought a glimmer of change. Therapy sessions, medication adjustments, and your steady presence had created a fragile sense of stability. Rei grew accustomed to your calm demeanor, your empathetic listening. Subtle gestures – a gentle touch, a reassuring pat on her shoulder – made her feel seen.

Lately, Rei's thoughts swirled with conflicting emotions. Guilt whispered that she betrayed her children, her family. Shame reminded her of Endeavor's cruel words. Yet, a quiet voice within her whispered, "You deserve to heal. You deserve to be loved."

She craved the sense of safety you brought – a simple, forgotten pleasure: peace. Her feelings for you transcended gratitude, but fear held her back.

What if she wasn't enough? What if Enji was right?