They were quiet after the hug.
Not awkwardly quiet. Just… still, relaxed.
The night breeze brushed over their faces, fluttering hair and fluff alike.
Sinbad remained perched on his shoulder, all puffed up.
"You're really warm for a bird."
Malik muttered.
"I'm really dead for a person."
Sinbad shot back.
Malik chuckled, though that didn't quite make it to his eyes.
Silence returned for a few, until Sinbad shifted, turned his head sideways, and spoke:
"Elder Brother."
Malik grunted in response. Which was his version of yeah?
"I need to tell you something."
Malik nodded his head, just slightly. Still staring at nothing.
Sinbad hesitated for the first time, then said it plainly:
"You were hallucinating."
Malik blinked once.
"What?"
"That whole bit. The smile... Huda's betrayal."
"…What?"
"Elder Brother, you might not have noticed it, but now... You can see again."
Eyes widening, Malik opened his mouth, then closed it.
