Kaelix slowly rose from the bed, his movements careful as he approached Eirik from behind. He didn't say anything, didn't try to offer words of comfort. Instead, he simply wrapped his arms around Eirik's waist, resting his chin on his shoulder.
For a long moment, they stood like that, in silent.
"I'm sorry," Eirik whispered, his voice cracking with exhaustion.
Kaelix shook his head, tightening his hold on him. "You don't have to be sorry."
Eirik let out a shaky breath, leaning back into Kaelix's embrace. He had never felt so drained, so utterly spent.
---
Back in the garden, Darren and Lysander remained by the fountain, watching as the last traces of tension dissolved into the cool evening air. Darren turned to his brother, a small smile on his lips.
"Think they'll be okay?" Darren asked, his gaze still lingering on the path that led back to the palace.
