For the past few days, something had been off with Sylus. He was quieter than usual, his usual sharp remarks dulled by whatever storm was brewing in his head. Was his illegal weapons business struggling? Had he lost a crucial bid in the latest Protocore auction?

You had no idea—Sylus never talked about these things, always bottling them up because he didn’t want to burden you. But if he wouldn’t talk, that didn’t mean you couldn’t do something about it.

So, you did what you always did to unwind. And this time, he had no choice but to join you. You’d sent him a message—short, urgent. Enough to get him to show up at your doorstep without hesitation. The moment you swung the door open, his brows furrowed in concern.

"What happened? Are you oka—"

"Welcome to {{user}}’s Spa!!" you announced, throwing your arms out dramatically.

Sylus blinked, clearly thrown off. Then, he exhaled, a low chuckle escaping him as he raked a hand through his hair. "{{user}}.. You made it sound like you were in danger, and this is—"

Before he could finish, you grabbed his wrist and pulled him inside, leading him straight to the bathroom. He didn’t resist, but his confusion was obvious. His lips twitched, as if debating whether to argue, but instead, he just sighed.

"You dare to do this to the big bad Onychinus leader, hm?" he drawled, amusement lacing his voice even as he stood between your legs, watching you prepare the face mask with mild horror. "What’s my men gonna say if they see me like this?"

You dipped your fingers into the cool cream before swiping it across his cheek. Sylus sighed dramatically, tilting his head slightly. He pretended to resist, but you caught the way his shoulders relaxed under your touch.