Two days later, Julian was finally able to move around a bit more comfortably, but as soon as he tried to stand, the others swarmed him, insisting he rest until he was fully healed.
"You need to lie down, Julian," Emma said firmly, hands on her hips. "We can't have you collapsing on us again."
Julian sighed. "We don't have time for that. We need to get to the military base and find Aya's family."
Aya shook her head. "Your health is more important right now. Besides, I'm sure my family is safe," she added with an uncharacteristically bright smile.
Emma raised an eyebrow. "Since when did you start being optimistic? Wait, are you actually Aya? Or did someone swap you out for a fake?"
Aya flailed her hands in a panic. "I'm the real one!"
Emma let out a soft laugh. "Well, if you say so. So Julian, don't worry, just rest for now."
Clarissa leaned in with a gentle smile. "She's right. You need to take it easy for once, Julian."
