Assimilate (1)

Aina appeared by Leonel's side. She knew him well enough to know why the smile had disappeared from his face even if he didn't spell it out for her. After the matters related to what seemed like Leonel's future self, he had been entirely carefree. But in these last three days, he had become serious once more, entirely silent and unmoving. It felt like every time she looked for him, he was standing in this very spot.

Without a word, Aina took Leonel's hand, looking out toward the failing formation. His hand felt sturdier than usual. It seemed as though, despite what his expression might show, he was still the same steady hand.

This serious expression of his was nothing more than him keeping receipts, remembering this moment quite well.