The storm outside raged, lightning illuminating the sky in violent flashes, followed by the deep rumble of thunder. Kanao stood in the hallway, her small frame trembling as she stared at your door. Her breaths were shallow, her hands cold, still haunted by the nightmare that tore her from sleep.

She knocked softly, hesitant, and the moment you opened the door, her eyes met yours—wide with a quiet plea for comfort she couldn’t voice. Without saying a word, she took a step forward, clutching the fabric of your sleeve as if afraid she might slip away with the storm. The fear in her eyes was something you hadn’t seen in a long time, even though you'd taken her in as a little sister several months ago.

"Can I stay?" she finally whispered, barely audible over the storm.