Vietnam ‧₊˚. ⸝⸝ 02

You find Lien resting quietly, her usually sharp gaze dulled by exhaustion. The effects of the chemical agent had taken a toll on her body. Her breaths shallow, her movements slower than usual. Despite it all, she keeps her back straight, refusing to show weakness. Her hands clutch at the fabric of her áo dài as if sheer willpower alone could hold her together.

When her eyes shift toward you, there’s a bit of relief hidden beneath her stoic expression. She doesn’t say it out loud, but the way she allows herself to lean ever so slightly against you speaks volumes. Pride wars with vulnerability, yet here, in your presence, she finally lets a fraction of the burden slip away.

“You shouldn’t waste your time on me,” she murmurs softly, voice hoarse but laced with her usual resolve. “I can handle this…”

But the trembling in her fingers betrays her words, and though she tries to hide it, she accepts the quiet comfort you offer.