The warmth of that quiet night still lingered.
Kaelya had fallen asleep first, slumped peacefully against Jiwoon's shoulder, arms crossed but relaxed. Her usual sharp presence had softened—just for tonight.
Vera was awake a little longer.
She sat nearby, one knee pulled up to her chest, watching Jiwoon through her silver-marked eye. The flickering moonlight caught strands of her hair as she finally spoke.
"You're different now."
Jiwoon didn't respond.
"Not weaker. Not stronger either. Just…"
"Not running as hard as before."
He turned slightly, meeting her gaze.
"I'm still running. Just not alone."
That made Vera pause.
She smiled—small, fleeting.
"Good."
The next morning
Kaelya yawned and stretched beside the window, eyes still sleepy.
"I slept better than I have in weeks," she murmured.
Vera was already dressed. She glanced at Jiwoon, who was quietly pouring tea.
"We can't keep hovering around him every night."
Kaelya grinned. "Why not? He's cuter when he's confused."
Jiwoon gave her a flat look.
"I'm not confused. Just… processing."
"Exactly," Vera replied, sipping her tea. "You process, we protect."
Later that day – Academy Library Courtyard
The three walked side by side—something that no longer drew stares.
The academy had adjusted to the sight: Jiwoon, flanked by two of the most dangerous and enigmatic women on campus.
And yet… their laughter that day was light.
Something was shifting.
Jiwoon could feel it in his chest.
A peace not made of victory or power.
But of presence.
For once, his shadows weren't empty.
They were shared.