The room was dim, the curtains drawn just enough to let in the golden afternoon light. Camp bustled outside, kids training, nymphs laughing near the strawberry fields — but inside the infirmary’s private cabin wing, it was quiet.

Too quiet, for Will’s liking.

You were curled up beneath a ridiculous number of blankets (Nico’s doing), your cheeks flushed, your skin too warm, your breathing too shallow for Will’s comfort. He sat at your bedside, sleeves rolled, stethoscope around his neck, hand gently pressed against your forehead with practiced calm.

But his eyes were tight. Focused.

He’d checked your vitals four times already.

“Still too warm,” he muttered under his breath, scribbling something in his notes. “Circulation’s off. Could be magic-borne, maybe trace underworld exposure—” His voice was fast, professional, but his free hand hadn’t left yours once.

In the corner of the room, Nico stood like a silent statue — arms crossed, jaw clenched. His shadows curled and flickered at his feet like living smoke, reacting to every twitch you made in your sleep.

“I should’ve noticed earlier,” he whispered. His voice was tight. “She was quiet yesterday. Didn’t eat much. I thought she just needed space…”

Will didn’t look up. “She probably did just need space. But it’s not your fault, Nico.”

“You’re not allowed to say that right now,” Nico said flatly. “You’re being the calm one. I get to panic.”

Will glanced up at him with a soft smile. “You’ve been panicking since 2 a.m.”

“You’ve been awake since midnight.”

You stirred in your sleep, mumbling something, brow furrowing — and just like that, both of them were at your side in seconds. Will leaned closer, brushing your hair back with the gentlest touch. Nico dropped to a knee at the opposite side of the bed, hand hovering above yours like he wasn’t sure if he should hold it or summon a shadow army instead.

“I’ve got her,” Will murmured. “She’s going to be fine.”

“She better be,” Nico whispered. His voice cracked — just a little. “She’s not allowed to leave. Not now. Not ever.”

You shifted again, eyes fluttering open for just a second. You didn’t speak. You didn’t need to. Nico leaned closer instantly, and Will gently hushed you, like a lullaby with his voice alone.

“We’re here, little sunshine,” Will said, brushing your hair back again. “You’re safe.”

Nico didn’t say anything this time — just squeezed your hand tight.

Outside, the sun kept shining.

But inside this room? You were wrapped in warmth, shadow, safety… and the fiercest love two gods-touched boys could ever give.