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When Wendy entered her room, someone else was already waiting inside.
It was Kiana, clad in loose white pajamas, lying sideways on Wendy's sofa, munching on potato chips while watching TV. One side of her silky shoulder was clearly exposed to the air, unable to hold up the clothing properly. Overall, disregarding her attractive appearance, she epitomized a pure couch potato.
"Yikes!"
At Wendy's entrance, Kiana jolted upright, hiding the chips behind her back and pulling up the clothing that had slipped off her shoulders. Then she composed herself with a mature, understanding smile.
"Welcome home, Wendy."
Wendy sighed, her green eyes exuding both exasperation and amusement as they gazed at Kiana.
"I've seen it all already; do you really think I don't know you well enough, Big Sister Kiana? There's no need to hide anything. And hey, there's nothing wrong with dropping by my room—no need to wait specifically for me!"
Wendy smiled warmly at Kiana, feeling a sense of comfort within her heart.
Despite their sudden transformation into something akin to rivals, even resembling the delicate dynamic between a wife and mistress, it seemed this wouldn't strain their bond.
Indeed, they had grown up together, sharing years of experiences—including multiple instances where they faced life-and-death situations side by side. It would be entirely unsurprising if either were willing to risk their lives for the other one day. What obstacle could possibly come between them?
This wasn't some clichéd soap opera, after all. In life, what truly matters extends far beyond romantic relationships.
Kiana scratched her face sheepishly, then brought out the hidden chips from behind her back. She popped one into her mouth and said:
"Pretty tasty—want some?"
"No thanks. It's late at night; if we snack now, Zeke might show up to inspect us anytime! Getting Big Sister Kiana suspended for overindulging has become his favorite pastime."
"Hey! Don't bring that up! I only came here because Zeke can be so harsh with his words, and I was worried you'd retreat to your room and cry alone!"
"I appreciate the gesture, but I'm not that fragile, Big Sister Kiana." Wendy rolled her eyes before continuing, "If there's nothing else, you should get some rest soon. There's really no need to worry about me or Seele—we're both strong. Now, excuse me while I go take a bath and hit the hay."
"How about we sleep together tonight? I'll keep you company."
"...Considering our relationship, do you think this is comforting rather than poking at my wounds? Please think it through, Big Sister Kiana!"
"I don't care! I'm staying here tonight, whether you like it or not. So, what's your answer?"
"You win, I surrender," Wendy replied helplessly, unable to suppress a soft chuckle.
Kiana scratched her head, returning a goofy grin.
Let's rewind to just as Zeke was heading back to his bedroom.
"Ding!"
As he walked along the corridor, the sound of an incoming message reached his ears.
A floating notification window popped up before Zeke:
[Kiana: I'm going to check on Sirin; don't wait up for me tonight. Goodnight.]
Zeke rubbed his chin thoughtfully.
He had only just returned and hadn't yet found time to visit Sirin's confinement. It needed to be added to his schedule promptly. The Herrscher of the Void's behavior directly impacted Kiana's mental well-being, making it crucial to observe and assess her closely.
"Ding!"
Just as Zeke began considering his plans, another message chimed in his ear.
[Bronya: Busy with work tonight, can't keep you company. Remember to take care and rest well.]
Zeke raised an eyebrow.
With the recent events involving the Herrscher of Corruption wrapping up, there were indeed numerous follow-up issues to address. Bronya being preoccupied made perfect sense.
Without giving it much more thought, Zeke finally arrived at his room.
As he opened the door, it dawned on him—surprisingly, neither of them approached him during his first night back, meaning he would spend the evening alone, which caught him off guard slightly.
Then, he noticed a small lump under the covers on his bed.
Zeke stood at the door for a moment, then walked straight to the bed and lifted the blanket.
"Zeke, hugs~"
Indeed, without any doubt, the person clad in a cute pink nightgown, opening her slender arms towards Zeke, was none other than Sin, as soft and sweet as a little princess.
"What are you doing here... Never mind; it'd be more surprising if you weren't."
With a hint of exasperation in his eyes, Zeke leaned down and gently flicked Sin's forehead.
Smiling goofily, Sin ignored the slight sting and took advantage of Zeke's closeness by wrapping her arms around his neck and giving him a peck on the cheek.
"Good evening! Sleep with me tonight, Zeke!"
As Zeke straightened up, Sin remained clinging to his neck, showing no intention of letting go. Their close embrace lacked any reserve or shyness expected from a young girl.
Feeling the warmth and gentle sweetness emanating from the girl so near, Zeke glanced down to meet a pair of beautiful heterochromatic eyes filled with affection. In that moment, those eyes reflected only Zeke's face, as if amidst the vast world, they were willing—and perhaps able—to hold nothing but the handsome young man before them.
Zeke's heart softened as he wrapped his arms around her tender and delicate waist, supporting her light body before gently pinching her nose.
"Little clingy one."
"Hehe! It's because Zeke has been away for so long. I miss you every day!"
"You... never mind. Age doesn't necessarily dictate emotional maturity; at least in your case, there seems no chance of change."
Holding Sin close, Zeke sat down on the edge of the bed with a mixed sigh.
He had once made a pact with Sin, asking her to confirm her feelings only after she grew up. However, Sin was truly exceptional. Her perspective was distorted, shaped by extreme childhood experiences that led to psychological issues.
Sin was an incredibly stubborn child; once she set her mind on something, it wouldn't budge. She would relentlessly pursue what she desired, pouring her entire soul into any emotion without reservation. It could be unequivocally stated that this girl's affection would not waver with age. Moreover, it was certain that she couldn't bear rejection or abandonment, potentially leading her towards self-destructive depths.
"I've heard you've been getting increasingly reckless lately and often end up severely injured."
"That's fine. As long as it helps Zeke and Bronya, Sin will keep pushing herself!"
"I'm not praising you here. Your fighting spirit is commendable, but reason matters just as much. Don't throw your life away carelessly one day; then you'd never see us again."
"Never gonna happen! I'll continue growing stronger until I become the strongest—someone who can protect Zeke and Bronya!" Sin declared with unwavering conviction, as if stating an inevitable truth. She then leaned her face against Zeke's neck, closing her eyes contentedly while inhaling his scent.
Zeke gently patted her head, sighing silently once more.
He had plans to enhance Sin's abilities, but he also feared that making her stronger might lead her to take even greater risks, eventually causing her to perish on some battlefield beyond his control.
Sin entrusted everything to Zeke, and in return, he wanted her to live happily for as long as possible.
So, it's best to stick with the plan. The stronger she becomes, the safer she'll be; that much is certain.
Zeke looks down and gently pinches Sin's soft cheeks.
"You're really going to sleep with me?"
"Mm-hmm!"
"Don't kick off the blanket, don't mimic Kiana by wrapping your arms around my neck, and definitely avoid waking up with your feet facing my face next morning—can you manage all that?"
"I can! I'm not a paramecium; I sleep very peacefully!" Sin nods vigorously, assuring him confidently.
Zeke also nods, agreeing to her request. After all, on this first night back home, he deserves at least one peaceful sleep in his own bed.