“Compliments. Being sickly sweet towards me,” she started. “Anything that feels like some weird cutesy shit.” It was tempting to add don’t treat me like I’m helpless, but she’d already destroyed that image herself since she couldn’t even walk properly.

Although, that’s Nier’s fault it happened.

Her expression stays plain. “We’ll see. I’m not exactly normal, so maybe I’ll do a better job at fighting against it.” Because maybe she would. Maybe she had the willpower to do just that. But if she did, then others would too—and if it was a choice, he would’ve told her. Maybe.

Biting her lip, Kainé slowly stands and takes his hand. Her muscles ache, and every movement feels heavier than it should. The steps she takes into the tub are slow and careful, each one measured so she doesn’t slip and bust her ass.

“…I appreciate it.”