"What are you thinking about?" Riven asked, his voice playful as he leaned in and poked Eli's cheek.
Eli jumped slightly, startled by the sudden touch. He blinked, then quickly shook his head, cheeks already flushing with color.
"It's nothing," he said a bit too fast, eyes darting away.
Riven tilted his head, not entirely convinced, but he didn't press further. Instead, he let his finger linger for just a moment before pulling back. The expression on Eli's face was amusing—embarrassed, flustered, and very much trying to look composed.
"I'll bring herbal tea next time," Eli said abruptly, his voice quiet but sincere. "I… Hope there's a next time."
There was a flicker of vulnerability in his tone. It was quick, almost hidden, but Riven caught it.
"Of course! We are friends!" Riven jumped on Eli to hug him, just like Eli did earlier.
