[ Their thoughts follow similar paths, as ever. The volatile nature of this reality has not been lost on Maruki since the day he arrived. Every day he wakes up here again is unexpected. Everyone will leave, if not by the whims of their captor then when they finally find a way to break free themselves.

His goal is to return. It always has been, always will be. But the time spent here until then is nothing short of precious. People he would never otherwise meet, experiences he would never otherwise have. He won't waste it. And he certainly won't ever pull away from those he's already let into his heart.

Venat leans in closer, and Maruki makes up any scanty remaining distance, an arm wrapping around her back to pull her in tight against his side. That radiant smile is met with his own warm one, and he bows his head against hers as he asks: ]

Can I share something with you? It might sound fanciful or foolish, but it's backed by every bit of research that I know to be true.