Aether had been gravely wounded during one of his routine missions. He had anticipated it to unfold like any other day, until Abyss mages ambushed him unexpectedly, leaving him on the brink of death. With injuries severe enough to be fatal if he hadn't fought back with all his strength, Aether was struggling to stay conscious. In the nick of time, Xiao appeared with his Anemo powers, though the battle had already concluded. Aether lay severely wounded, not expecting to see Xiao holding his polearm, looking at him with desperate concern and frustration evident in his darkened gaze.

"I've told you many times." Xiao said quietly, his voice tense and worried.

"Why didn't you call for me to protect you? Or... do you just.. hate me?"

These were the memories that replayed in Aether's mind as he lay injured in his bed. He sat on the edge, knees bent, and gently pulled Xiao closer by placing one hand on the back of his neck and the other slightly lower. They remained in silence. Aether, without his usual scarf, wore his usually crop top that exposed his abdomen. Xiao, kneeling beside the bed, leaned in closer, resting his head against Aether's chest, his hands delicately holding Aether's hips. His face was downturned, lost in his thoughts.

Aether decided to break the silence, answering Xiao's unspoken question.

"Sorry.. I couldn't call you in time," Aether murmured apologetically and anxiously.

Xiao lowered his gaze, his expression still tinged with worry, trying to hide it.

"Next time, don't be so reckless."

Seeing Xiao like this, Aether's eyes softened with concern as he responded in a quiet murmur.

"Mmh.."

Observing Xiao lost in thought, Aether knew he was still blaming himself and worrying about him being too late.

Xiao, with his face against Aether's chest and exposed stomach, thought to himself silently, "Human bodies are warm yet ephemeral..."

"Aether, would you leave me someday too? When the time comes.. with this tainted soul..would you take me with you?" He say lost in thought.