Distance.. (Zilae POV)

Zilae's hand tightened around the phone as he heard the click of Mateo hanging up. He stared at his phone for a moment, a mix of worry, frustration, and helplessness swirling within him. Despite his desire to reach out and continue talking, he knew he had to respect Mateo's request for space.

Zilae's Inner Thoughts: Dammit, Mateo, why won't you let us be there for you? I'm worried about you, and I don't like this feeling of helplessness. I just hope you're truly okay...

With a heavy sigh, Zilae slowly placed his phone down on the table, his gaze lingering on it for a moment before turning to Lumina, his expression a mixture of concern and determination.

Zilae: Determined, yet filled with a tinge of sadness, he spoke softly to Lumina. "Lumina, maybe Mateo needs some time alone. Let's respect that for now. But I won't stop worrying. We'll keep checking in on them, support them from a distance until they're ready."

Lumina nodded, her own worry and understanding mirrored in her eyes as she reached out to gently hold Zilae's hand in hers. "You're a good friend, Lei. Mateo is lucky to have you. We'll be here for them in whatever way they need us."

Despite the uncertainty, Zilae found solace in Lumina's comforting presence, knowing that they could face whatever challenges lay ahead together.