Aschenfall Gardens — Midnight, Two Days Later
Kaito couldn't sleep.
Again.
But this time it wasn't because of work. The documents were up to date thanks to the four queens helping discreetly.
No, this time it was something more complex.
Images rotating in his mind:
Adelheid touching his cheek with tenderness she never showed others.
Lilith leaning close, expert hands massaging tension from his shoulders.
Naporia singing a lullaby, her voice surprisingly soft.
Valeria looking at him with something in her eyes she was learning to name as affection.
And him... he didn't know what to do with any of it.
He had come to the garden seeking fresh air and perspective.
He found Aria already there.
Sitting on a bench under an ancient tree, looking at the stars.
"Can't sleep either?" Kaito asked, approaching.
"I could. But I knew you'd come here eventually."
Aria patted the space beside her.
"Sit down. We need to talk."
Kaito obeyed, feeling some apprehension.
