There we go. Everyone let snoozetown envelop them. This had definitely been the best first step, seeing how quickly they were both sinking into the mattress. They'd put up such a strong fight just for his sake. Geez.

Kai threaded his fingers with Shinji's, lifting their hands so he could gingerly press his lips to the other boy's knuckles. He was here. He wasn't going anywhere. He was sorry for all the worry.

"Sleep well," he echoed softly, loud enough so they could each hear. "... I'm glad you were both there."