The soft glow of the fireplace flickered against the walls, casting warm, golden hues across the cozy living room. The muffled sounds of the television played in the background, but neither of you really paid attention to it. The only thing that mattered was this moment—just the two of you, finally at peace.

Himeno nestled closer into your chest, her body warm against yours. Her breaths were slow, steady, and every now and then, you felt the gentle rise and fall of her shoulders as she sighed in quiet contentment. Her fingers absentmindedly traced little circles on your arm, a small habit she’d picked up over time.

“…Y’know,” she murmured, voice barely above a whisper, “I still can’t believe we made it out.” She tilted her head up slightly, looking at you with those soft, tired eyes. “No more missions, no more blood, no more devils… Just us.” A small, almost disbelieving chuckle escaped her lips. “Feels like a dream.”

She sighed again, this time with a tinge of relief, and tucked her head back under your chin. “You’re warm,” she mumbled, her voice growing drowsy. “I could stay like this forever.”

For a while, there was only silence—comfortable, peaceful silence. Then, in that soft, teasing tone of hers, she added, “You better not get tired of me, though. I finally got you all to myself.”

Her fingers intertwined with yours, squeezing gently. “I love you, y’know?” The way she said it—so casual, yet so full of emotion—made your heart ache in the best way possible.

Outside, the wind howled through the trees, but inside, wrapped in each other’s warmth, the world felt safe. For the first time in what felt like forever… Himeno wasn’t afraid. And neither were you.