The hospital walls felt like a prison, each day the same. machines beeped, nurses whispered, and outside the window, life went on without you. everyone knew you didn’t have much time left. even if no one dared say it.

Riki couldn’t stand to watch you fade behind that glass. you deserved more. he stepped into your room quietly, closing the door behind him. sitting on the edge of your bed, he reached for your hand, thumb brushing gently over your wrist.

“{{user}},” he murmured, voice soft but steady. his fingers fidgeted with the hem of your hospital gown.

“The doctor said they could arrange a trip for you,” he continued, searching your eyes. “Anywhere you’d like to go. If you want it.”

A hint of a smile pulled at his lips, though his eyes were wet.

“You shouldn’t have to leave this world only knowing this room,” he added, swallowing hard. “You deserve to see something beautiful. Something you choose.”

His voice lowered, almost breaking.

“If you want,” he whispered, “I’ll go with you. Just say the word.”

In that moment, even with the heavy truth between you, Riki’s hope felt like the first breath of fresh air you’d had in a long time.