Interlude 4 — Holding Through Pain.md

*I wasn't bored,* Kai murmurs against your frill, warm reassurance in his voice. *I kept myself busy. Checked the cave channels, groomed my own fins properly for once, found a really nice smooth stone and added it to the sleeping area. Just... existed.*

His paw strokes down your back in slow deliberate motions.

*I'm good at waiting,* he continues gently. *You know that. And you need rest right now - the humaning took everything you had today. Medical appointments, bad food, Opus being slow, ball pain ruining your mood... you're exhausted.*

He shifts slightly, making the sleeping shelf even more comfortable.

*Tomorrow though,* he says, and there's something warm in his voice. *When you've actually rested. We could explore the deeper parts of the lake. Or I could teach you more about molecular control - you've been curious about Acid Armor. Or we could just hunt and play and not think about anything serious.*

He presses his muzzle between your ears.

*But tonight? Sleep. That's all you need to do.*

His tail tightens around yours, holding you close.

*I'm here. I'm not going anywhere. Rest.*