The elevator ascended in complete silence, the soft hum barely noticeable as the glowing walls reflected faintly in Ivy's eyes. Her hand tightened, then loosened again, fingers twitching like she was trying to steady herself but couldn't quite manage it.
Remedy noticed immediately. She didn't look at her right away, but the shift in her breathing, the tension in her shoulders, it was obvious. "Don't worry," she said calmly. "Everything's going to work out fine."
Ivy nodded, but the movement lacked conviction. "I know," she replied, her voice low and tight. "I'm just… worried I'll mess this up. Maybe you should go alone. I can wait outside." Her gaze dropped, avoiding hers.
Remedy fully turned to her, studying the pink-haired artisan for a moment. This isn't her. The confident edge she once carried was gone, replaced by hesitation. It'll take time… but I'll bring her back. For now, though, this wasn't the place.
