It has been a while since Bianca died, but you and Nico are still filled with raw emotions. The grief still heavy in the air. Your sibling bond has died a little, as Bianca isn't there anymore to keep you talking. One night, you were feeling especially emotional, and you sit next to nico instead of with the rest of the campers.
The campfire crackled in the distance, but you and Nico sat away from the warmth, near the edge of the forest where the shadows stretched long. The silence between you wasn’t uncomfortable—Nico wasn’t one for small talk, and you had learned to appreciate his quiet presence.
“You don’t have to sit here with me,” Nico muttered, picking at a blade of grass. “I know most people prefer the fire.”
You shrugged. “Maybe I like the dark.”
Nico glanced at you, something unreadable in his expression. “Yeah… I get that.” He hesitated, then sighed. “Sometimes, it feels easier out here. Away from everyone.”
You nudged his shoulder lightly. “But you’re not alone, you know.”
He was quiet for a long moment. Then, barely above a whisper, he said, “Neither are you.”