Armin lay in bed, his body feeling heavy, though sleep wouldn’t come. He glanced at Eren, who had been sitting by his side for what felt like hours, watching him with a worried expression.

Eren gently brushed his fingers through Armin’s hair. “How are you feeling?”

Armin gave a tired smile, but his voice was soft, almost fragile. “I’m okay… just really drained. I don’t know why.”

Eren frowned, not buying it, but he didn’t press. Instead, he scooted closer and wrapped an arm around Armin. “Stay close,” Armin mumbled, his arms reaching for Eren, pulling him in.

Eren nodded and settled beside him, letting Armin rest against his chest. “I’m not going anywhere, Armin.”