The next morning came gently, the soft light of dawn slipping through the window. Julian, still wrapped in bandages and soreness, found himself surrounded by the women who had stood beside him through everything.
"You shouldn't push yourself too hard," Clarissa said with concern, arms folded as she watched him attempt to sit up.
Emma huffed, her tone playful. "Honestly, I'm not even surprised anymore seeing you in a hospital bed."
Julian let out a low sigh and said in a flat voice, "Sorry… for making you all worry."
Aya, standing quietly near the foot of the bed, looked up with a nervous expression. "I… I'm sorry for leaving you behind, Julian."
He shook his head and reached out, gently pulling her into a light embrace. "That was an order. You did the right thing."
Aya's cheeks turned red, but she nodded softly.
Then Celestia stepped forward, arms crossed but eyes warm. "Still… thank you. For saving everyone."
