The abandoned building smelled faintly of smoke and dust, the remnants of the Beach’s fire still lingering outside. You moved quietly, tucking the blanket snugly over Chishiya as he slept, his usual calm expression softened in rest. Kuina and Usagi sat nearby, quietly sharing what little dinner they had, the clatter of utensils punctuating the otherwise tense silence.

Arisu stepped closer, leaning against the doorway, his eyes lingering on you as you smoothed the blanket over Chishiya. “You really care about him, don’t you?” he asked gently, voice low so as not to wake Chishiya.

You paused, your hand brushing over Chishiya’s shoulder. “More than I ever expected,” you murmured, voice almost a whisper. “He… he’s worth it.”

Arisu smiled softly. “It’s obvious. You’d do anything for him.”

Chishiya stirred slightly in his sleep, murmuring under his breath, but didn’t wake. You leaned back, letting the quiet hum of the small group settle around you, the faint warmth of human connection.