Kana's chest rose and fell sharply, her breaths ragged and uneven as Ruby finally pulled her hand away.
The burning sensation faded little by little, leaving behind a strange, hollow lightness in its place — as though a heavy weight had been lifted off her shoulders without her realizing it was even there.
Her trembling fingers brushed over her chest instinctively, her wide eyes darting to Ruby.
"…I… feel lighter. Freer, even."
Kana whispered softly, her voice shaky.
Ruby didn't answer immediately. Her pink hair framed her serious expression as she studied Kana carefully, her sharp gaze tracing every detail of her face like she was searching for cracks beneath the surface.
"Ruby…Do you… know what's going on with me?"
Kana breathed, sitting up straighter.
For a moment, Ruby remained quiet, her lips pressed into a thin line. Then, finally, she reached forward, placing her palm gently on Kana's cheek, her voice steady but soft.
"You don't need to worry about any of that."
