Malleus heard of the birthday party you were planning for yourself. Your guests spoke of it while walking down the halls in the morning, seeming excited.

He, of course, bought a gift that very same day, once classes were done. It was the least he could do for you, one of the few people who dared to approach him, to talk, to walk by his side. A friend.

Late that night, the prince called you over to Diasomnia's common room to give you the neatly wrapped box. Wanting to make it a surprise, he didn't mention it.

But the surprise turned out to be his. You walked in holding an envelope with his name on it.

You laughed, finding it funny that Malleus attemped to give you your gift before even attending the party. Then you stopped, and suddenly looked concerned. Only then did he notice his vision going blurry.

Oh. He was crying.