33

As I sat by Kael's side, running my fingers through his hair, I could feel the tension in the room. Cassy sat nearby in a chair, her eyes fixed on Kael, while Ky positioned himself strategically behind him, ready to intervene if necessary.

Kael's eyes fluttered open, and I was the first thing he saw. He weakly reached up, attempting to touch my face, but his strength failed him, and his hand dropped into my lap. I squeezed it tightly, trying to ground him, to keep him connected to the here and now. To me.

His lips moved silently, trying to form words, but no sound came out. He turned his head, noticing Ky's hands on his back. " Se...seizure?" he stuttered out weakly.

Ky responded gently, "Yeah, but it wasn't a long one. Don't worry." Kael simply nodded, his energy fading, and turned back to face me.

His eyes were bloodshot, a vivid reminder of his struggle.

He lifted our intertwined hands to his face, his lips brushing against my skin. He mumbled something indiscernible, his voice ro