Rachel stood by the edge of the infirmary bed, hands clasped tightly in front of her like she feared they would shake. Her voice came out small and unusually soft, nothing like the sharp-tongued girl the academy knew.
"Mia… I'm really sorry for everything," she whispered.
Mia blinked slowly, her throat still scratchy from the bitter aftertaste of the poison. Leon stayed seated beside her, a hand resting protectively on the blanket near her wrist. His silent presence was warning enough for anyone who approached too closely.
Rachel swallowed. "I know I've done terrible things. I said harsh words. I acted out of anger, out of jealousy… I shouldn't have. I just… I didn't come here to argue. I came to say I'm glad you're alive. Truly."
Eliose stood behind her quietly. Unlike usual, she didn't step forward or smile. She only kept her gaze on Mia, almost cautious, as if measuring every breath Mia took.
Mia forced a tired smile. "Thank you."
