"This..." Soren stared at the two items in his hand, looking up at the commander. "You do not have to give me anything, Sir. I only-"
"Compared to what you gave me, Mr. Everly, this is nothing." Ervin cut him off decisively. "Please, take them. It puts my heart at ease."
"...Thank you, Commander. I'll put them to good use."
Ervin nodded, then glanced toward the hallway. "I'll leave a few of my subordinates stationed nearby, just in case." He bowed his head slightly. "Take care, Mr. Everly."
"You too, Commander."
Soren watched until Ervin's figure disappeared down the corridor. Then he turned and went back inside.
───────
By the time they finished getting ready, the morning sun had fully risen. Soren helped Ethea into her wheelchair, and they headed outside. They went to Ryan's apartment since they had promised to have breakfast at their house. Ryan's mother had insisted on treating them, saying she would cook Soren's favorite dumplings and bake cookies for Ethea.
