Hidden in an alleyway, Loke attempted to catch his breath after the most recent episode, trembling.

It's almost time

The wind picked up around him, and he slumped as a familiar presence hovered at his side, quiet.

"…You need to stop punishing yourself."

"You know this is what I deserve, Jack." Loke answered tiredly, resigned.

The winter-girl frowned, those piercing blue eyes turning on him.

"What happened wasn't your fault, idiot."

"Like what happened to Hikari wasn't yours?"

Pain flashed across her face like lightning, and the staff in her hands creaked under the pressure.

"You promised to never bring her up."

Guilt gnawed at him, making it impossible to maintain eye contact, but he knew apologizing would do nothing to heal the old scars.

"You promised not to prod me anymore."

"You're almost out of time." Jack pressed, her worry overcoming the hurt. "Just…Just take some of my magic."

"You barely have enough to still do your job." Loke retorted, firm. "There's no way you can continue your duties while sharing with me."

"I can try." Jack insisted, fierce. "Letting you fade isn't something I can just let happen, Leo!"

Turning, Loke took hold of her shoulders, expression sad and fond.

"You know better than anyone that there's no saving me." He reminded gently. "All I ask is that you keep moving forward and share your heart with others."

Biting her lip, Jack peered up at him, eyes shimmering with tears.

"I…I'm gonna miss you."

Squeezing her shoulders comfortingly, Loke nodded, doing his best not to tear up.

"I'll miss you too, Yuki."

After taking a few moments to compose himself, Loke released his hold, managing a half-hearted smile.

"Isn't there a certain bookworm in the hospital waiting for you?"

Jack hesitated for a second or two before nodding, torn.

"Just…don't go down easy, alright?"

"I promise."

With one last glance, she flew up and out of the alley, heart heavy as lead in her chest.

"Idiot…" The winter-girl muttered, choking down a sob. "You didn't have to lie…"