24. A quite morning

Hestia Familia Home – Early Morning

Orcbolg's eyes opened again.

The room was still dimly lit, the sun barely rising outside.

Hestia was still hugging his arm.

Her breathing was slow, steady.

Her small hands clung to him like she didn't want to let go.

Orcbolg lay still for a moment.

The warmth was unfamiliar.

Not unpleasant—just… different.

Hestia shifted slightly.

A soft sigh escaped her lips as she nuzzled closer, her forehead pressing against his shoulder.

Then—her eyes fluttered open.

She blinked sleepily, slowly realizing their position.

Her cheeks turned red.

"Ah—!"

She immediately let go, sitting up in a panic.

"I-I didn't mean to—!"

Orcbolg sat up as well, adjusting his armor.

"It's fine."

Hestia stared at him.

Then she puffed her cheeks.

"That's it? Just 'it's fine'?"

He tilted his head.

"...Did you expect something else?"

Hestia groaned, burying her face in a pillow.

"Forget it!"

A New Day Begins

Despite her embarrassment, Hestia was smiling.

Orcbolg went to check his gear, preparing for another day in the dungeon.

But this time, something felt different.

Maybe it was the warmth that still lingered.

Or maybe—

Just maybe—

He was starting to understand what it meant to have a home.