After finishing their pasta, Zen guided everyone toward the park nearby, saying it would help ease the food.
He took a deep breath, filling his lungs with the cool evening air.
"(inhales) Isn't this nice, eh?"
"Yeah," Rein said softly. "It really is."
Stella gently tugged at the sleeve of his shirt — a quiet, familiar gesture. She didn't need to say anything.
"Hm?" Rein glanced down, then smiled. "Oh… right."
He looked back at Zen and Valkyrie.
"Hey, Zen… Valkyrie… would it be okay if Stella and I sat somewhere for a bit?"
Zen walked over, slipping an arm around Rein's neck with an easy, brotherly pull and a small smile.
"Of course, bud."
Stella and Rein walked off together, her hand wrapped carefully around his as they moved at his pace.
From a distance, Zen watched them.
"WAHH… so cute," he whispered dramatically to Valkyrie.
"I know," Valkyrie replied — but her gaze shifted to Zen. His smile was there… yet something behind it wasn't.
She studied him for a moment.
"Hey. What's wrong?"
Zen blinked. "Big sister senses kicking in?"
"Yeah," Valkyrie said simply.
He exhaled slowly.
"It's just… I've never really spent time away from him. I was always nearby. Always checking in."
He hesitated, then added quietly, "After everything he went through… You know his past. I think Stella told you."
"She did," Valkyrie said gently. "He went through hell."
"Yeah," Zen nodded, eyes glistening. "So I stayed. I made sure he felt safe. And eventually… he did."
His voice softened. "But now it feels like he's finally free from that pain. Like he can live again…"
He swallowed.
"…without me."
Valkyrie didn't rush him. She placed a hand on his arm.
"Hey," she said calmly. "He spent half his life with you. That doesn't disappear."
Then, softer, "And he deserves this happiness too."
Zen watched Rein and Stella sit together in the distance — close, quiet, peaceful.
"…yeah," he murmured. "I know."
And for the first time, his smile didn't hurt.
"Zen… let me tell you something," Valkyrie said softly.
Her voice cut through the noise of the park — the distant laughter, the rustle of leaves, the faint hum of the city beyond the trees. Zen stopped walking.
He didn't joke.
He didn't deflect.
He just looked at her.
"He will never forget you," she said, meeting his eyes without hesitation. "Not tomorrow. Not when things get easier. Not even when life finally lets him breathe."
Zen swallowed.
"You were there when the world wasn't kind to him," Valkyrie continued. "You stayed when it would've been easier to walk away. People don't forget that kind of presence."
His shoulders trembled — just slightly.
Before he could pull himself together, Valkyrie stepped closer and wrapped her arms around him, guiding his head gently to her shoulder. It wasn't dramatic. It wasn't rushed.
It was grounding.
Zen let himself lean in.
For the first time in a long while, he didn't feel like the guardian standing watch.
He felt like someone who was allowed to rest.
"…yeah," he murmured, voice thick. "Thank you."
She didn't answer right away. She just stayed there with him, steady and quiet, until his breathing evened out.
When Zen finally pulled back, he wiped his face quickly and straightened up, forcing his usual energy back into place — like flipping a switch.
"Well then!" he said, clapping his hands together a little too loudly. "Enough of that emotional damage."
Valkyrie smirked.
"So," Zen added, pointing toward the path ahead, "ice cream?"
She raised an eyebrow slowly.
"I'm seven years older than you."
Zen froze.
"…Hey."
He held up both hands immediately, mock-serious.
"Let me be very clear."
"This," he said, gesturing vaguely between them, "is not a date."
Valkyrie studied his face — the nervous grin, the way his eyes flicked away for half a second.
Then she sighed, shaking her head.
"Okay," she said. "If it's not a date…"
She turned and started walking.
"…then I'm in."
Zen stared at her back for a second too long.
Inner voice:
You wound me, goddess.
But he hurried after her anyway, smiling like an idiot — because even if it wasn't a date, walking beside her still felt like something worth holding onto.
And for now… that was enough.
Rein and Stella walked together along a narrow path that led toward a low tree branch overlooking the park. From there, the view opened up — the pond stretching wide and calm below them, its surface reflecting the soft glow of streetlights and the fading colours of the sky. The air smelled faintly of water and leaves, peaceful and still.
They walked in quiet sync.
Then Stella stopped.
Rein took one more step before realising she wasn't beside him anymore. He turned back just in time to see her standing there, hands tucked behind her back, shoulders drawn in slightly — like she was gathering courage.
She looked up at him.
"I love you," Stella said.
Simple.
No hesitation.
For half a second, Rein's heart forgot how to beat.
His breath caught, his thoughts scrambled, and heat rushed straight to his face. He opened his mouth, closed it, then finally managed to speak — voice soft, honest, and completely unguarded.
"I-I love you too."
The blush on his face was impossible to miss.
Stella's expression softened instantly — like his answer had settled something deep inside her. As they started walking again, she suddenly stepped closer and wrapped her arms around him, hugging him from the side, pressing herself against him as if she never wanted to let go.
"I love you," she said again.
And again.
And again.
Each time, her voice carried the same warmth, the same certainty. Her smile wasn't playful or teasing — it was open, genuine, almost glowing. The kind of smile that didn't ask for anything in return.
Rein felt his chest tighten — in the best way.
"Oof," he muttered softly, his heart completely surrendering.
Then he laughed under his breath, careful but warm.
"Hey… careful of my rib," he said, still smiling.
Stella froze for half a second.
"Oh— okay, sorry," she said quickly, loosening her hold just a little — but she didn't step away. Instead, she rested her head against his shoulder, staying close, choosing him anyway.
Rein looked down at her, his smile small and overwhelmed, and thought — yeah… this is real.
And for the first time in a long while, that thought didn't scare him at all.
"Wanna sit down?" Rein asked softly, exhaling. "My legs are about to give up."
Stella smiled, immediately nodding. "Yeah… okay."
They walked carefully to a nearby bench tucked beneath the trees, the park lights casting gentle shadows around them. When they sat down, their shoulders touched naturally, heads leaning together like it was instinct rather than intention. The pond shimmered in front of them, quiet and calm.
For a few moments, neither of them spoke.
Then Stella shifted slightly.
"Hey… I wanna give you something," she said, her voice a little shy.
Rein turned his head toward her. "Hm? What is it?"
She hesitated, then smiled nervously. "Close your eyes."
He blinked. "Okay…?" A small laugh escaped him as he obeyed.
"And— hand out," Stella added, her cheeks warming.
"What? Why?" Rein asked, still smiling.
"Mmm. Hand out," she repeated, firmer this time, though her blush deepened.
Rein slowly extended his left hand, palm up, trusting her completely.
Stella handled his wrist carefully, gently fastening something around it with delicate fingers — taking extra care not to hurt him. The metal felt cool against his skin.
"Okay," she whispered. "You can open your eyes now."
Rein did.
And for a moment, he couldn't speak.
Around his wrist was a bracelet — elegant, warm-toned, crafted from a mix of gold and silver that blended into a soft rose-gold glow. Subtle, beautiful… and unmistakably meaningful. Engraved neatly into it was her name.
His breath hitched. His eyes went glassy.
"W-what…" His voice came out quieter than he meant. "What is this for?"
Stella let out a small, nervous giggle. "It's a bracelet… with my name on it," she said, trying to sound casual and failing adorably.
Then, softer: "It also has a tracker. Just in case."
Rein looked up at her, stunned — not by the object, but by what it meant. I care. I worry. I want you to be safe.
Before he could say anything, Stella reached into her pocket and pulled out another bracelet — matching, just as carefully made.
"Now," she said gently, extending her hand toward him, "you put yours on mine."
Engraved into this one was his name.
Rein swallowed hard, then took it with shaking fingers. He fastened it around her wrist, his touch careful, reverent — like he was handling something precious.
"Here," he said quietly when he finished.
Their hands lingered together for a second longer than necessary.
Rein finally let out a shaky breath, his thumb brushing over the bracelet on his own wrist.
"…Thank you," he said, voice thick with emotion. "I'll never take it off."
Stella smiled — soft, relieved, radiant — and leaned her head against his shoulder again.
And in that quiet park, with matching bracelets and shared warmth, it felt like a promise neither of them needed to say out loud.
"Hey… Stella?" Rein asked suddenly, his voice low and careful, like he didn't want to disturb the calm around them.
"When's your birthday?"
She turned her head toward him, a little surprised by the question.
"March 23rd, 2007," she answered. "Why do you ask?"
Rein let out a small, almost sheepish breath. "I never asked when we first became friends. Back then… There were reasons. My head wasn't really in the right place."
Stella didn't tease him. She just nodded gently, understanding more than he said.
"Hm," she hummed. Then, with a tiny smile, she added, "Yours is October 17th, 2008. Right?"
Rein froze for half a second.
"Y-yeah," he said, embarrassed, a faint blush creeping up his face. "How did you know that?"
Stella looked away for a moment, suddenly shy. "I asked Zen."
"Oh…" Rein said softly, then it hit him.
His eyes widened. "Oh— shoot. Happy late birthday."
Stella laughed quietly, warmth spilling into her smile. "Hehe… thank you."
She lifted her hand and gently patted his head, her touch light and affectionate, like she was reassuring him without words.
"I'm sorry," Rein added, voice sincere. "That I didn't ask… or say it sooner."
Stella shook her head, leaning a little closer. "Don't worry about it," she said softly. "You're here now. That's what matters."
Rein smiled at that—small, real, and full of relief—as the evening breeze drifted through the park, carrying the feeling that some things didn't need perfect timing to be meaningful.
"How's your shadow now?" Stella asked softly.
Rein glanced down for a moment, almost instinctively, as if checking.
"It's… normal. For now, at least," he replied.
"Mmm. Good to know," she said, relieved.
There was a brief pause—one of those quiet, charged silences where neither of them quite knew what came next.
"Hey, Rein…" Stella said gently. "Could you look at me?"
"Hm? Wha—" Rein barely finished the word.
Stella leaned in and kissed him.
It wasn't hesitant. It wasn't rushed either. Just suddenly, warm, and sure—her lips pressing against his in a way that made his thoughts scatter instantly. The kiss lingered long enough for Rein to forget how to breathe properly.
When she finally pulled back, her breath was shaky… uneven.
Before he could say anything, she leaned in again, kissing him once more—softer this time, but deeper somehow, like she was trying to say something she couldn't put into words.
Rein's heart was racing. Instinct took over. He slid his hands to her waist, holding her close, grounding himself in the feel of her there—real, warm, here.
When Stella finally pulled away, she was breathing hard, her chest rising and falling quickly. Her eyes were a little glossy, her cheeks flushed.
Rein swallowed, still flustered, still catching his breath.
"Hey… are you okay?" he asked softly. "What was with the unannounced kisses?"
Stella looked down, then back up at him, her fingers curling lightly into his shirt.
"I I-I…" she tried, her voice trembling more than his had been. "I don't know how to say it."
She paused, breath shaking, heart clearly racing just as fast as his.
"I just… felt like if I didn't do it right now, I'd lose the courage."
Her words hung between them—raw, honest, and full of everything she wasn't saying yet.
Rein's grip on her waist loosened just enough for him to lift one hand and brush his thumb across her cheek, careful, almost reverent.
"You don't have to rush yourself," he said quietly. "I'm here. You can take all the time you need."
Stella let out a shaky breath, her forehead resting against his.
"It's just… every time I look at you, I get scared," she admitted. "Scared you'll disappear again. Scared that this—" she gestured between them with a tiny, nervous laugh, "—is too good to be real."
Rein's heart squeezed.
"I'm scared too," he confessed. "But I don't want to run anymore. Not if it means losing you."
She looked up at him then, eyes shining, searching his face like she was memorising it.
"You're not going anywhere," she said softly. "Not without me."
He smiled—a small, honest one—and leaned forward, pressing his forehead to hers again.
"Then stay with me," he whispered. "Even when things get messy. Even when I get quiet. Even when I'm scared."
Stella nodded immediately.
"I already am."
She wrapped her arms around him, gentler this time, mindful of his rib, and he rested his chin lightly on her head. The world felt distant—muted—like the park existed just for them.
And then—
"HEYYYYYY LOVE BIRDS!"
Rein nearly jumped.
Stella yelped softly and buried her face into his chest in pure embarrassment.
Zen appeared in front of them, holding two ice creams high in the air like trophies.
"Mission accomplished," he announced proudly. "Ice cream acquired. And yes, I brought napkins because I'm emotionally mature now."
Valkyrie stood beside him, arms crossed but smiling.
"You were supposed to not interrupt," she said, though her tone was amused.
"Hey, I waited a respectful amount of time," Zen protested. "Which is—" he checked an imaginary watch, "—exactly three minutes."
Rein laughed despite himself, his cheeks warm.
"You have the worst timing."
"False," Zen replied, handing them the ice creams. "I have perfect timing. Romantic moment? Boom. Sugar."
Stella peeked up, still blushing, and took hers.
"…Thanks," she muttered.
Zen leaned closer and stage-whispered, "So… kissing bench, huh?"
"ZEN," Stella snapped.
Valkyrie sighed, but there was affection in it.
"Eat your ice cream before it melts," she said. "Both of you."
Rein glanced at Stella, who was trying—and failing—not to smile.
Maybe the world was still dangerous.
Maybe chaos and shadows still waited.
But right now?
He had her.
Ice cream.
And friends who refused to let things stay quiet for too long.
And somehow… that felt perfect.
They ended up sitting on the grass a little away from the path, the noise of the park fading into something softer. Zen handed out the ice cream like it was some kind of sacred ritual.
"Alright," he said seriously, "if mine melts before I finish it, I'm blaming all of you."
Valkyrie didn't even look at him. "That's not how physics works."
Zen scoffed. "You don't know that."
Stella laughed quietly, already leaning against Rein's shoulder without thinking. Rein froze for half a second—then relaxed, letting his head tilt just slightly toward hers. It felt… natural. Too natural. Like something he'd been missing without realising it.
For a while, nobody spoke. Just the sound of distant voices, the crinkle of wrappers, and Zen dramatically suffering through a brain freeze.
"This is nice," Zen muttered after a moment. "We don't do this enough."
Rein hummed in agreement, his fingers brushing Stella's hand. She didn't pull away. Instead, she intertwined their fingers, her thumb rubbing slow circles against his knuckles. Rein's chest tightened in a way that wasn't painful—but heavy. Peaceful.
So this is what calm feels like, he thought.
Valkyrie was watching them from the corner of her eye. Not judging. Observing.
Then her expression changed.
"…You feel that, right?" she said.
Rein stiffened instantly.
Stella noticed it immediately. "Feel what?"
Zen blinked. "Uh—feel what? The ice cream is great, if that's what you mean."
Valkyrie stood up, her gaze sweeping the area, lingering on the shadows beneath the trees. "Something's off."
Rein slowly got to his feet, instinct taking over. The warmth in his chest dimmed, replaced by that familiar alertness. His shadow shifted slightly at his feet—just enough for him to notice.
Stella grabbed his sleeve, her voice quiet. "Rein…?"
He looked down at her, forcing a small smile. "Hey. It's probably nothing."
But his eyes stayed sharp.
The laughter around them continued. The park looked the same. Normal.
Rein sensed it an instant too late.
His shadow warped beneath him, stretching unnaturally as the air around the park thickened, as if the world itself had inhaled and forgotten how to breathe. Time didn't stop—but it buckled. Sound dulled. Colours drained. Pressure crashed down like a mountain.
Zen staggered, his knees threatening to give out. Valkyrie froze mid-step, muscles locked as something ancient and suffocating pressed against her spine. Stella felt it coil around her heart, sharp and cold.
Then Chaos stepped out of Rein's shadow.
Not emerging—claiming the space behind him.
His presence alone was enough to force the ground to groan. Zen dropped to one knee with a sharp gasp, sweat breaking across his skin. Valkyrie remained standing through sheer will, eyes wide as she saw him clearly—too clearly.
"Don't move," Chaos said calmly. "Your bodies aren't built for this."
Stella turned—
And Chaos was already in front of her.
His hand came up and cupped her face, fingers firm, inescapable. Stella gasped, breath hitching as crimson light flared in his eyes. She could move. She could scream. Her body simply refused to obey.
Chaos leaned in, studying her expression, her soul.
"…So this is her," he murmured. "Interesting."
"Get away from her!" Zen shouted, forcing himself up despite the crushing aura. "Touch her again and—"
Chaos didn't even look at him.
Instead, his gaze slid sideways.
To Valkyrie.
The pressure shifted.
Valkyrie felt it instantly—like being weighed, stripped bare, judged down to the bone. Chaos straightened, his smile slow and dangerous as his eyes traced her calmly.
"Oh?" he said. "Now this is unexpected."
He took a step toward her.
Zen sucked in a sharp breath, fighting the crushing force pinning his body.
"Hey—whatever the hell you are," Zen snapped, teeth clenched, "take your eyes off her."
Chaos finally turned.
He smiled wider.
"Ah," he said softly. "Look at you. Still living."
The air spiked.
Zen's body slammed fully to the ground this time, breath knocked from his lungs. Valkyrie took an involuntary step back, heart pounding.
Chaos tilted his head, amused.
"I think," he continued casually, eyes never leaving Valkyrie, "I may have just found myself a wife."
"What—?!" Valkyrie whispered, fury cutting through her fear.
Before anyone could react—
Chaos lowered his hand from Stella's face.
Rein moved.
He forced his body forward, one step fueled by panic and rage.
Chaos flicked his fingers downward.
Pain detonated in Rein's ribs.
He collapsed to his knees with a strangled gasp, one hand slamming into the ground as the world spun violently. Stella cried out, breaking free the moment Chaos released her, rushing toward Rein before Valkyrie caught her arm.
"Rein!" Stella shouted.
Chaos crouched in front of him, observing him closely, like a craftsman inspecting cracked steel.
Still smiling.
"Nice choice, Rein," Chaos said quietly. "Both of them."
His crimson eyes gleamed.
Then—
Snap.
The pressure vanished.
Sound rushed back. Colour returned. The park breathed again.
Rein collapsed forward, gasping. Stella dropped beside him instantly, hands shaking as she held him close. Zen rolled onto his side, coughing hard, eyes wide with disbelief. Valkyrie stood frozen, chest rising and falling rapidly, her skin still buzzing where Chaos' gaze had touched her.
"…Did you all see that?" Zen rasped.
No one answered.
Rein lifted his head slowly.
Chaos was gone.
But Stella's hands were still trembling.
And Valkyrie knew—deep in her bones—that whatever Chaos had done…
That wasn't a threat.
It was a selection.
"That thing…" Valkyrie said, her voice barely holding together, "…it wore Rein's face."
She swallowed, eyes hollow.
"But everything else about it was wrong. The way it smiled. The way it looked at us. Like we were already dead."
Her gaze snapped back to Rein.
"And you fought that?"
Rein knelt on the ground, fingers digging into the dirt, breath uneven. His ribs screamed every time he moved, but the pain barely mattered. Not compared to the weight crushing his chest.
"That thing," Valkyrie whispered, almost to herself, "could end the world."
"He's a Void Vein," Rein said.
The air felt heavier. Like the world itself recoiled.
"I knew it," Rein choked out suddenly. His voice cracked, panic spilling free. "I knew it—please. All of you. Stay away from me."
He forced himself upright, shaking, eyes wild.
"Please. I'm begging you. If he comes back—if I lose control—I don't want you near me. I don't want your blood on my hands."
"Shut up."
Stella stepped forward.
Her hands were trembling, her eyes wet—but her voice didn't break.
"If there's one thing I'm not doing," she said, staring straight at him, "it's abandoning you."
Rein stared at her as she'd just defied the universe itself.
"I don't care what he is. I don't care what he's capable of. If that monster thinks he can scare me away from you—he's wrong."
Her voice cracked then, just once.
"I hope I'm making myself very clear, Rein."
"Stella…," Valkyrie said quietly, conflicted. "If that thing is tied to him—"
"Then leave," Stella snapped, turning on her. "But I'm not."
The words hit harder than any blow.
Zen exhaled slowly, forcing a smile that didn't reach his eyes.
"Well," he muttered, "guess that confirms it. We're officially on the Demon King's hit list."
No one laughed.
"Valkyrie," Stella said more softly, still holding Rein's hand, "he didn't choose this."
"I know," Valkyrie replied. "But that thing… Rein—tell me the truth."
Her eyes searched his face.
"Is it inside you?"
Rein's throat tightened.
"There's something I never told any of you," he said.
The park felt wrong now. Too quiet. Too still.
"One night… I saw a shadow rift. It was breathing. Like it was alive."
Stella's fingers tightened around his.
"I stepped closer," Rein continued. "And it shattered—right into me."
His hands shook.
"On the way home, my head started hurting so bad I thought I was going to collapse. I had to hold onto a wall just to stay standing."
Zen's jaw clenched.
"Then my shadow opened another rift."
Rein looked down at his own hands like they didn't belong to him.
"I saw him."
Silence.
"Chaos."
The name felt poisonous.
"He reached through," Rein whispered. "Touched my hand."
His breath hitched.
"And when it closed… I told myself it wasn't real. That I imagined it."
His eyes lifted—full of self-loathing.
"I ignored it."
His voice broke completely.
"And that's when he started living inside me."
No one spoke.
Stella stepped closer and wrapped her arms around him anyway, pressing her forehead to his chest.
"Then he picked the wrong host," she whispered.
Rein shut his eyes.
For the first time since Chaos appeared… he didn't feel completely alone.
From the far end of the park, hurried footsteps broke the silence.
"He came, didn't he?"
The voice was sharp with urgency.
Principal Wilson emerged from between the trees, coat unbuttoned, breath uneven — not from age, but from having run without hesitation. His eyes scanned the area like a battlefield, pupils narrowed, senses still flaring.
Zen straightened immediately.
"Principal Wilson? Why are you here?"
Wilson didn't answer him at first.
He stopped a few steps from Rein, eyes locking onto him with frightening intensity — not fear, not anger, but recognition.
"I felt it," Wilson said grimly. "That aura. Chaos."
The word landed heavily.
"That's why I ran."
Rein swallowed hard. "Why…?"
Wilson's expression softened instantly when Rein spoke. The sharp edge melted into something almost parental.
"To protect you," he said quietly. "Because that is my responsibility."
He stepped closer and placed a firm hand on Rein's shoulder — grounding, steady.
"My child."
Rein's breath hitched.
"Principal Wilson…" His voice shook despite his effort to stay strong. "Is that thing really attached to me?"
The question cracked something open in him. His eyes burned, tears finally spilling over.
"Is he inside me?"
The world seemed to hold its breath.
Wilson didn't answer immediately.
Instead, he sighed — a long, weary sound, like someone carrying a truth far heavier than words.
"Yes," he said at last. "But not in the way you're imagining."
Stella felt Rein's knees buckle and moved instantly, holding him upright.
"Enough," Wilson said gently but firmly. "You're injured. Your ribs are unstable, your aura is bleeding, and Chaos has already tested his reach."
He looked at all of them now — Stella, Zen, Valkyrie.
"We are not having this conversation here."
His voice lowered, grave.
"Because the more you know… the more he listens."
Zen's jaw tightened. "Then what do we do?"
Wilson turned back to Rein.
"We take you back to the hospital. We heal your body first."
Then his gaze sharpened — resolute, unyielding.
"And after that… I will tell you everything."
A pause.
"The truth about Chaos.
The truth about Void Veins.
And why you were never meant to face this alone."
Rein clenched his fist.
"Promise me," he whispered. "No lies. No half-truths."
Wilson nodded once.
"You deserve the whole story, my dear children."
The wind stirred.
Somewhere deep within Rein's shadow, something listened.
They reached the hospital just before dawn.
Rein lay unconscious as the healers worked, glowing sigils pulsing faintly across his chest and arms. No one spoke. Even Zen, usually restless, stood frozen, fists clenched at his sides.
After what felt like hours, the door finally slid open.
"Lucky you," the doctor said with a tired smile. "The healing responded perfectly. We expect a full recovery in two days, Mr Seethoshi."
Rein stirred slightly. "Thank… you."
The doctor nodded and left, the door closing softly behind him.
Silence returned.
Principal Wilson stood at the foot of the bed, his expression heavier than Rein had ever seen it. Zen, Valkyrie, and Stella waited beside the bed, all eyes fixed on him.
No more running.
"Principal Wilson," Rein said, his voice steady but fragile, "the truth. Please."
Wilson exhaled slowly, as if the weight of decades pressed down on his lungs.
"Yes," he said. "The truth."
He pulled a chair closer and sat.
"Sixty-five years ago," Wilson began, "I was a Hex Vein soldier. Young. Arrogant. I believed the world could always be saved if we fought hard enough."
His eyes darkened.
"That belief died the day the Shadow King attacked."
Zen's breath hitched.
"Cities fell. Realms collapsed. My friends died one by one." Wilson's voice wavered only once. "Chaos was there… but he was still a child then. Watching. Learning."
Stella whispered, "Then who fought the Shadow King?"
Wilson looked at Rein.
"A Void Vein Astral user," he said. "Young. Barely old enough to understand hatred… yet already forced to carry it."
The room felt colder.
"He fought the Shadow King head-on. Every strike shook the sky. Every clash felt like the world itself was tearing apart."
Zen swallowed. "And then?"
"When both of them were at the edge of death," Wilson said quietly, "Chaos descended."
Rein's fingers tightened against the sheets.
"He didn't save the Void Vein Astral," Wilson continued. "He killed him."
Stella gasped. Valkyrie's eyes widened.
"Chaos took everything that remained," Wilson said. "His power. His echo. His unfinished existence."
Rein's voice trembled. "Then… he doesn't live inside me?"
Wilson shook his head. "No. Chaos uses you. You are a gate — a bridge between the Void Realm and this world. He enters and leaves through you without using Shadow Rifts."
"Then why," Rein asked, his eyes burning, "does he look like me?"
Wilson stood.
"Because Chaos is trying to become what he destroyed."
Everyone froze.
"When Chaos killed the Void Vein Astral," Wilson said, "he didn't just take power. He took a future that was never fulfilled."
Wilson stepped closer to Rein.
"You were born with the same astral signature. The same resonance. Not reincarnation… but alignment."
Rein's chest tightened.
"Chaos mirrors you because you are the closest thing to what he erased," Wilson said. "He isn't possessing you."
A pause.
"He's rehearsing."
The word hung in the air like a blade.
"That," Wilson said softly, "is why people fear you."
He glanced at Zen, Stella, and Valkyrie.
"But not everyone."
"And the Void Vein?" Rein asked quietly. "Why is it that only Chaos… and that Astral user ever had one?"
Wilson folded his hands. "Chaos obtained it the way I told you — by killing him."
The room went still.
"But we don't know how the young Astral gained a Void Vein in the first place," Wilson continued. "As all of you know, Vein-Codes are assigned at birth."
He raised one finger.
"Sole Vein."
A second.
"Dual Vein."
Then a third, lingering longer.
"And one in a million… Tri Vein."
Zen's eyes sparkled. "So I'm rare?"
Wilson smiled faintly. "Yes, my child. You are rare."
Zen leaned back, grinning. "Sweet."
Valkyrie rolled her eyes.
"To grow stronger," Wilson went on, "a user must shatter the limits of their Vein-Code rank to ascend. Natural birth determines your starting point — breaking past it determines your ceiling."
His gaze shifted to Valkyrie.
"Three of you were born with natural Vein-Codes," Wilson said. "One of you broke your way here."
Valkyrie stiffened but said nothing.
"Then," Rein asked slowly, "how am I the only human who can control both Astral… and Chaos?"
Wilson studied him for a moment before answering.
"Before your treatment," he said, "I placed an Astral energy detector on you. Don't worry — my wife was present. She knows."
Stella's shoulders relaxed slightly.
"What we found," Wilson continued, "was something unprecedented."
He tapped the side of his cane.
"You possess two active energy sources."
Zen frowned. "Two?"
"One Astral core — like everyone else," Wilson said. "And beneath it… a Chaotic energy core."
Rein's breath caught.
"That explains why you can control both," Wilson said. "It was only a matter of time before the Chaotic core awakened."
"Then why now?" Rein asked.
Wilson's eyes sharpened.
"Because you never reached for it," he said. "So it reached for you."
The room darkened.
"When you saw Zen fall," Wilson said, "rage became the trigger. Chaotic energy does not awaken through discipline."
A pause.
"It awakens through emotion."
Rein clenched his fists.
"Tomorrow," Wilson continued, "I'll be meeting with the Board. We'll discuss whether they'll allow you to use Chaotic energy openly."
Zen blinked. "Allow?"
"If they approve," Wilson said, "we begin training. For battle."
His gaze swept across the room.
"All of you."
Valkyrie's eyes widened. "Even me?"
"Especially you," Wilson replied.
He stood and turned toward the door.
"Rest up," Wilson said softly. "I'll see you all at school on Monday."
The door closed behind him.
Silence.
Then—
"YOU GUYS HEARD THAT?" Zen shouted. "I'M RARE."
Valkyrie spun toward him. "WAS THAT REALLY THE ONLY THING YOU HEARD?"
Rein burst out laughing, the sound raw and unrestrained — the first genuine relief he'd felt since Chaos appeared.
And for a moment… the darkness retreated.
After a bit more light chatter, Zen stretched and grabbed his jacket.
"Yo," he said, slinging it over his shoulder. "I'm gonna take my leave. Rest up, bud. Don't do anything stupid while I'm gone."
Rein smiled. "I'll try. Take care on the way home."
"Bye, Zen," Stella said softly.
"Later," Valkyrie added with a nod.
Zen waved once more and headed out, the door closing behind him.
For a moment, the room felt quieter.
"Stella," Valkyrie said, breaking the silence, "I brought some of your clothes early this morning… just in case you wanted to stay with Rein."
Stella didn't hesitate. "Yeah. I want to stay."
Rein looked at her, uncertainty creeping into his voice.
"Are you sure? A demon literally uses me to walk into this world."
Stella met his eyes without blinking.
"Does it look like I care?"
Rein let out a small breath and laughed weakly. "Nope. It really doesn't."
Stella turned to Valkyrie, her expression softening.
"Valkyrie… I'm sorry for what I said earlier. I didn't mean to sound ru—"
She didn't finish.
Valkyrie pulled her into a tight hug.
"Don't worry about it," Valkyrie said quietly. "I know you didn't mean it. You were just protecting him."
Rein swallowed. "Valkyrie… I'm sorry too."
She pulled back slightly. "For what?"
"For not protecting Stella," Rein said.
Valkyrie searched his face, then smiled faintly.
"You really do remember your promise."
He nodded.
"Don't worry," she said. "You were injured anyway." Her voice lowered. "But still… if anything ever happens to her, Rein, I wouldn't be able to live with it."
Rein straightened despite the lingering pain in his ribs.
"I won't let anything happen to her. Next time… I swear."
Valkyrie held his gaze for a long second, then turned toward the door.
"Well," she said softly, "I guess I should take my leave too."
"Bye, Rein."
She paused, then added, "Bye, little sis. I love you."
"I love you too," Stella replied, her voice warm.
The door closed behind Valkyrie.
Rein looked at Stella — at the way she sat beside him so naturally, as if chaos, demons, and fear didn't exist.
In that moment, Rein understood something with absolute clarity.
No matter what Chaos was…
No matter what he would become…
He couldn't — wouldn't — let anything happen to Stella.
The bathroom was connected to the room, separated only by a sliding door.
Stella shifted slightly where she stood.
"Rein… is it okay if I take a shower? I just want to loosen up a bit."
Rein blinked, then waved a hand lightly.
"Why are you asking me? Of course you can."
She smiled, relieved.
"Okay. I won't take long, I promise."
Stella opened the bag Valkyrie had brought earlier and pulled out a change of clothes — a simple crop top and comfortable everyday wear. Nothing fancy. Still, she hesitated for a second.
Maybe… I'll look good in this, she thought, her cheeks warming.
She glanced back at Rein, suddenly shy.
"Five minutes. Promise," she said, her voice soft, a faint blush spreading across her face.
Rein nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips.
"Of course."
Stella slipped into the bathroom, the door sliding shut behind her.
The sound of running water filled the room soon after, leaving Rein alone with his thoughts — and a strange, unfamiliar calm he hadn't felt in a long time.
I can't believe this…
Stella let the warm water run over her hair, fingers moving slowly through the strands.
Why does he have to suffer so much?
The thought made her chest tighten. None of this is fair. Not to him.
As she rinsed the shampoo away, something cool brushed against her wrist.
She froze.
The bracelet.
Rein's bracelet — the one with his name engraved into it.
She had completely forgotten to take it off.
Her face went scarlet in an instant, heat rushing up her neck, her heart pounding so loudly she swore it echoed against the tiled walls.
Outside the bathroom, Rein shifted slightly.
"Hey… you okay in there?"
Stella nearly jumped.
"U-uh— yeah!" she replied quickly, trying to steady her voice.
Rein leaned back against the bed, staring at the ceiling.
Should I have asked that?
He winced internally. What if I made things awkward? Great. Smooth move, Rein.
The water shut off.
A moment passed.
Then the door slid open.
Stella stepped out, dressed in a crop top and fresh clothes, her hair still slightly damp, clinging softly to her shoulders. She paused in front of him, fingers fidgeting at her side.
"So…" she said, her voice barely above a whisper,
"h-how do I look?"
Rein looked up.
And forgot how to breathe.
"…Stunning," he said honestly, before he could stop himself.
Stella's smile bloomed instantly.
She stepped closer, then glanced down at him.
"Um… want me to help you up so you can freshen up too?"
Rein nodded, a little flustered.
"Y-yeah."
She slipped her hand into his, steady and warm — grounding him more than any magic ever could.
"U-um… where do I put my other hand?" Rein asked, his voice barely holding together.
Stella blinked, then let out a soft chuckle.
"Hm? Oh— um…"
Before he could overthink it, she gently took his free hand and placed it against her bare waist.
Rein froze.
The warmth under his palm sent his brain into complete shutdown. His face turned red so fast it felt like steam might come out of his ears.
"O-oh— h— uh— mmmh…" Rein mumbled, words failing him entirely.
Stella watched his reaction, lips curving into an amused, affectionate smile.
"First time touching a girl's waist?" she teased lightly.
Rein swallowed hard and nodded, avoiding her eyes.
"U-uh… yeah. Obviously."
Her laughter was soft, not mocking — warm and reassuring.
"It's okay," she said gently, squeezing his hand. "You're doing just fine."
"U-uh… crap—" Rein muttered under his breath, nerves finally snapping.
"R-Rein, wh—" Stella started, surprised—
—but before she could finish, he pulled her gently yet firmly by the waist and kissed her.
Not rushed.
Not rough.
Just raw emotion spilling over.
Her breath hitched as she froze for half a second… then melted into it.
The kiss lingered longer than either of them expected — long enough for Rein's thoughts to completely disappear.
When he finally pulled back, he sucked in air like he'd forgotten how breathing worked.
Stella blinked, cheeks flushed, then let out a small, teasing smile.
"…Someone lost control," she said softly.
The words hit Rein like lightning.
His eyes widened.
Colour flooded his face.
"Oh— shit— I— I'm so sorry," he rushed out, pulling back instantly. "I didn't mean to— I just— I swear—"
She reached out and gently pressed a finger against his lips.
"Rein," Stella said calmly. "It's okay."
He looked at her, still panicking.
"R-really…?"
She nodded, warmth in her eyes.
"Really."
Then she leaned closer and whispered with a playful grin,
"Now go freshen up before you completely lose your mind."
Rein covered his face with both hands.
"…I'm sorry," he mumbled, mortified.
Her laughter was soft — fond, not teasing.
"Idiot," she said affectionately.
Rein's thoughts spiralled the moment the door closed.
AGHH— why did I do that?
I completely lost control.
He leaned forward slightly, bracing himself as warm water poured over his hair.
But… I'd never seen her in a crop top before.
She was—
His chest tightened.
She was beautiful.
As he ran his fingers through his hair, something cool brushed against his wrist.
"Hm?" Rein muttered.
He looked down.
The bracelet.
Stella's name caught the light, delicate and unmistakable.
Heat rushed to his face so fast it almost hurt. He was certain she could hear it — the way his breath hitched, the way his heart refused to calm down.
From outside the bathroom, her voice came softly.
"Hey… you good in there?"
"U-uh, yeah," Rein answered a little too quickly.
Silence followed.
For a second, it felt strangely familiar.
Stella stood on the other side of the door, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of her sleeve.
…Why did I ask that? she thought.
Did I make it weird?
Water continued to run.
Two people separated by a door, both flustered, both smiling to themselves — caught in the same quiet déjà vu.
The water finally stopped.
Rein took a slow breath, resting his forehead against the cool tile for a second longer than necessary, as if steadying himself. He reached for a towel, dried his hair roughly, then pulled on a simple black shirt — no hood, no layers, nothing to hide behind.
When he stepped out, the room felt… quieter.
Stella was sitting on the edge of the bed, scrolling through her phone to look casual.
Then she looked up.
Her breath caught.
For a second, she forgot how to blink.
Rein stood there awkwardly, hair still damp, black shirt clinging slightly to his shoulders and chest. Without his usual hood, his face looked more open — softer, but somehow sharper too. Different. Real.
"Oh—" Stella said, then stopped.
Rein noticed immediately.
"H-hey," he said, rubbing the back of his neck. "Is… something wrong?"
"No," she said way too fast. "I mean— nothing's wrong."
Her cheeks were already red.
Rein tilted his head, confused. "You're staring."
"I am not," she protested, then immediately failed to look away.
Silence stretched between them.
"…You look good," Stella admitted quietly, almost under her breath.
Rein froze.
"I I-I do?" he asked, genuinely unsure.
Stella nodded once, still not trusting herself to meet his eyes. "Yeah. The black shirt suits you."
His ears turned red instantly.
"Oh," Rein muttered. "Thanks."
He shuffled closer, sitting down carefully beside her, mindful of his rib. For a moment, neither of them spoke. Their shoulders brushed — just barely — but it sent a spark through both of them.
Stella finally glanced at him again, softer this time.
"Maybe," she said with a tiny smile, "you should stop hiding under that hood all the time."
Rein smiled back, small but real.
"…Maybe," he said.
And for once, he didn't feel the need to pull it back on.
Stella watched him from the corner of her eye, pretending to be very focused on absolutely nothing.
"…You know," she said casually, swinging her legs a little, "this is kind of unfair."
Rein blinked. "Huh?"
She turned toward him, chin resting in her palm, eyes scanning him openly now — no shame, no hiding it.
"You just walk out like that," she continued, "black shirt, wet hair, no hood… and expect me to act normal?"
Rein's brain shut off.
"W-what do you mean by that?" he asked, already knowing he was doomed.
Stella leaned closer, her voice dropping just a little. "You look dangerous."
He choked on air. "D-dangerous?!"
She smiled — slow, mischievous, absolutely enjoying this.
"Mhm. Like the kind of guy in stories who pretends he's harmless but absolutely isn't."
Rein covered his face with both hands. "Stella, please…"
She laughed softly. "What? I'm just being honest."
Then she reached out, fingers brushing the edge of his sleeve.
"And honestly," she added, eyes flicking up to his, "I kinda like seeing you like this. Less hiding. More… you."
His heart slammed against his ribs — the good ones and the injured ones alike.
"I I-I don't even know how to respond to that," Rein admitted, voice barely above a whisper.
She tilted her head. "You don't have to."
Another beat.
Then, with a playful glint in her eye, she added:
"Although… if you keep looking at me like that, I might start calling you what you already are."
He peeked at her through his fingers. "A-and what's that?"
She leaned in just enough for him to feel her breath.
"…Horny."
Rein made a sound somewhere between a gasp and a surrender.
"STELLA—"
She burst into laughter, pulling back immediately. "Relax! I'm kidding."
Mostly.
He slumped against the bed, redder than he'd ever been. "You're evil."
She grinned. "And you're cute when you're flustered."
She nudged his knee gently. "Careful, Rein. If you keep this up, I'm going to start teasing you on purpose."
He swallowed.
"…You already are."
Her smile softened at that.
Stella caught his sleeve and nudged him back onto the bed—not forceful, just sudden enough to make his breath hitch.
"Stella—?" Rein whispered.
She didn't answer right away.
Instead, she leaned over him, bracing herself on her elbows, her face hovering just above his. Her eyes searched his—careful, serious, full of something that made his chest feel too tight.
"Look at me," she said softly.
He did.
For a second, nothing existed but the sound of their breathing.
Then she leaned down and pressed a light kiss to his lips.
It was brief. Careful. Almost hesitant.
She pulled back just enough to look at him again, then leaned in once more—another soft kiss, slower this time, like she was making sure it was okay. Like she was asking without words.
Rein's heart thundered. He didn't move. He just let it happen, afraid that even breathing too hard might break the moment.
Her forehead rested against his after, their noses brushing.
"I just wanted you to know," she murmured, voice barely above a whisper, "you're here. You're real. And you're not alone."
His hand lifted, tentative, resting against her back—not pulling, not claiming. Just there.
"I know," he said quietly. "I feel it."
That made her smile—small, relieved.
She pressed one last gentle kiss to his lips, then rested her head against his chest, listening to his heartbeat like it was proof.
And for once…
Rein believed it was.
Stella stayed above him, close enough that Rein could feel her breath against his lips.
For a moment, neither of them spoke.
Then she leaned down again—slow, unhurried—and kissed him.
Not hesitant this time.
It wasn't desperate or rushed. It was warm, lingering, like she was memorising the feeling of him. Her lips moved against his softly, carefully, as if she was afraid the moment might vanish if she pushed too hard.
Rein's breath caught.
His hand lifted on instinct, resting at her waist—not pulling her closer, just holding, like he needed the contact to stay grounded. She melted into it, the space between them disappearing completely.
She kissed him again.
And again.
Each one, gentle, unspoken promises wrapped in warmth.
When she finally pulled back, their foreheads rested together, noses brushing. Her eyes were half-lidded, soft, shining.
"I don't care about tomorrow," she whispered.
"I don't care about Chaos. Or fear. Or what happens next."
Her thumb traced a slow line along his cheek, tender enough to make his chest ache.
"I'm here," she said. "With you. Right now."
Rein swallowed hard.
"I've never felt this safe," he admitted quietly. "Not… ever."
That did it.
Stella leaned down and kissed him once more—slow, deep, full of everything she couldn't put into words. When she pulled away, she smiled, resting her forehead against his.
"Good," she murmured.
"Then stay."
She curled against him carefully, mindful of his ribs, her head settling over his heart. His arm wrapped around her, protective without even trying.
Outside, the world kept moving.
But right there—
In that hospital room—
Time softened.
And for the first time in a long while, Rein didn't feel like a vessel, or a weapon, or a mistake.
He felt loved.
Rein hesitated for just a heartbeat.
Then, carefully—so carefully—he shifted, one hand sliding up her back until it rested between her shoulder blades, steady and warm. Stella felt him move and lifted her head slightly, giving him space without even realising she was doing it.
Rein leaned in.
Not to her lips this time.
His mouth brushed along her jaw first, barely there, like a question he was too shy to ask out loud. Stella's breath hitched, her fingers tightening slightly in his shirt.
Then he kissed her neck.
Soft.
Slow.
Just once.
It wasn't bold. It wasn't rushed. It was the kind of kiss that said I care, not I want. His lips lingered for a second longer than necessary, warm against her skin, before he pulled back just a little—like he was afraid of crossing a line.
Stella froze.
Then melted.
Her eyes fluttered shut, and she let out a quiet breath she hadn't realised she was holding. Her hand slid up to his hair, fingers threading through it gently, grounding him there.
"Rein…" she whispered—not a warning, not a protest. Just his name, soft and full.
He pulled back immediately, forehead resting against her collarbone, cheeks burning.
" I-I'm sorry," he murmured. "I just… wanted you to know how much you mean to me."
She smiled.
Not teasing. Not flustered.
Just warm.
Stella tilted his chin up with two fingers and kissed his lips again—slow, reassuring, full of quiet affection.
"I know," she said softly.
"And I like it when you show it."
She rested her forehead against his, staying close.
And Rein, heart pounding but steady, realised something important:
For once, his touch didn't hurt anyone.
It comforted them both.
Stella stayed close, not pulling away.
Instead, she shifted just enough so their faces were level again. Her thumb brushed over his cheek, slow and affectionate, like she was memorising him.
Then she leaned in.
Her lips found his neck this time—gentler than his had been, lighter, almost shy. A small kiss just beneath his jaw. Then another, a little closer to his ear. Nothing rushed. Nothing demanding. Just warmth and care, returned.
Rein inhaled sharply, his hands tightening slightly at her waist—not to pull, not to claim, just to hold. Like he was afraid she might disappear if he didn't.
She felt it.
Stella smiled against his skin and pulled back just enough to look at him. His eyes were wide, soft, overwhelmed in that way that made her chest ache.
"You okay?" she whispered.
He nodded, swallowing. "Y-yeah. Just… happy."
Her expression softened completely.
She leaned in again, this time pressing her forehead to his, noses brushing. Their breaths mixed, quiet and uneven.
"I love you," Stella whispered.
Not dramatic.
Not loud.
Just honest.
The words hit Rein harder than anything Chaos had ever done.
His vision blurred instantly.
"I—" His voice caught. He took a breath, steadying himself the way he always tried to. "I love you too."
She kissed him then—slow, unhurried, full of reassurance. No urgency. No fear. Just two people choosing each other in the quiet.
When they finally pulled back, she rested her head on his chest, listening to his heartbeat calm.
Rein wrapped his arms around her carefully, resting his chin against her hair.
For once…
The world was quiet.
And for once…
He felt safe enough to stay in it.
"Hey… Stella?" Rein said quietly.
She hummed in response, half-asleep against the pillow. "Hmm?"
"Can we go see the stars?" His eyes drifted toward the window, as if the night itself were calling him.
She turned her head, blinking at him. "The stars?" A pause, then a soft scoff. "Rein… we're in a hospital."
He hesitated, then lifted a shoulder in a small, hopeful shrug. "We could ask the staff to let us go to the roof."
Stella stared at him for a moment.
Then she laughed — soft and breathy, the kind that warmed the room despite everything. "You're crazy," she said, smiling despite herself.
"Maybe," he replied. "But you didn't say no."
She sighed, pretending to think it over, before swinging her legs off the bed. "Alright," she said. "But if we get in trouble, I'm blaming you."
That smile he gave her then made it worth everything.
The rooftop was quiet — almost unnaturally so.
The city slept beneath them, lights dim and distant, while above, the stars stretched endlessly across the sky. Rein stared upward, but his hands trembled at his sides.
Stella noticed before he said anything.
"Rein…?" she whispered.
He swallowed hard. "I'm scared."
She moved closer. "Of what?"
"Of losing you." He finally looked at her, eyes glassy. "Every time you close your eyes… every time the machines beep… I keep thinking—what if one day they stop?"
Her breath caught.
"And Chaos…" Rein continued, fists tightening. "If the world ends because of him — because he's tied to me—then it's my fault. All of it. The destruction. The deaths." His voice wavered. "You."
She grabbed his sleeve. "Rein, that's not—"
"I know what people say," he cut in softly. "That's its destiny. That it's inevitable." A bitter laugh slipped out. "But if I had been stronger… smarter… maybe none of this would've happened."
His shoulders began to shake.
"I don't want to be the reason the world burns," he whispered. "And I don't want to be the reason you disappear."
Stella rested her forehead against his arm, grounding him. "You're not a monster."
He closed his eyes.
When he opened them again, the stars had blurred.
His chest tightened, breath coming shallow and uneven. He tried to speak, but the words caught in his throat. His jaw trembled.
"I…" His voice collapsed. "I miss my mom."
The words were barely louder than the wind — but they shattered him.
He pressed a hand over his eyes as if that might stop it, but tears slipped through anyway, hot and unstoppable. One fell, then another, until his shoulders shook openly.
"She used to sit with me at night," he whispered between broken breaths. "We'd look at the sky like this… and she'd tell me the stars were people watching over us." A fragile, broken laugh escaped him. "I used to believe that."
Stella's heart clenched.
"She'd say, 'No matter how dark it gets, Rein, you don't disappear.'" His voice cracked completely. "But she's gone. And I'm still here. And I don't know why."
Tears streamed freely now.
"I'm scared I'll forget her voice," he sobbed. "I'm scared that one day… when this is all over… I won't even remember how she hugged me."
His knees nearly gave way, and Stella caught him before he could fall.
"I don't want to be strong anymore," he cried into her shoulder. "I'm tired. I don't want to fight Chaos. I just want my mom back."
She held him as he broke — fingers gently threading through his damp hair — not rushing him, not telling him to be brave.
"She would be so proud of you," Stella whispered, her own voice shaking. "You're still the boy she raised. Even now."
Rein clutched her shirt like it was the only thing keeping him standing.
"What if I fail her?" he asked through tears. "What if the world ends because of me?"
Stella pulled back just enough to meet his eyes.
"Then we face it together," she said softly. "But you won't lose her. Not as long as you remember her."
Rein squeezed his eyes shut, pressing his forehead to hers, tears still falling.
For the first time since everything began, he didn't hide them.
And beneath the silent stars,
Rein finally let himself mourn.
The night air grew colder, the stars slowly drifting as clouds passed over them.
Rein's breathing began to steady, though his fingers still clung to Stella's sleeve as if letting go would make everything disappear again. She didn't move. She stayed, exactly where he needed her.
"We should go back," she whispered gently. "You need rest."
He nodded, too tired to argue.
Back in the hospital room, the lights were dimmed, machines humming softly like a distant lullaby. Rein lay back against the pillows, exhaustion pulling him under faster than he expected.
Stella hesitated only a second before slipping onto the bed beside him, careful of the wires and monitors. She wrapped an arm around his shoulders, drawing him close, his head resting against her chest.
Rein stiffened at first.
Then he relaxed.
Her warmth was real. Her heartbeat is steady. Proof that she was still here.
"It's okay," she murmured, fingers brushing through his hair. "I've got you."
His hand found her sleeve, gripping it gently, like he was afraid she might vanish if he loosened his hold.
"Stella… don't leave," he whispered, voice barely there.
"I'm not going anywhere," she said without hesitation. "Not tonight. Not ever."
His eyes burned again, but this time the tears didn't fall.
Slowly, his breathing evened out. The tension drained from his body, inch by inch, until sleep finally claimed him. His face softened, the weight he carried easing — just a little.
Stella stayed awake longer, watching him sleep.
She pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead, then rested her cheek against his hair, holding him like she would through every storm still waiting ahead.
Outside, the stars continued to watch.
And for this one fragile night,
Rein wasn't alone.