[Zelos doesn't associate Yuan with hugs. He's given Yuan hugs, but that's not the same thing. Yuan doesn't return some of them, and only half-returns the others. He's never hugged Zelos first.

Except for right now.

Zelos sits still for a moment, surprised not just that it's Yuan, but also that anyone worked out he needed a hug at all. It's almost enough to make the fear stronger than the act he's been putting on for the last few days -- for the last year. It's almost enough to put him on a tipping point, with no idea what lies on the other side.

In the end, Zelos doesn't tip, but leans his head on Yuan instead. It jars his injured shoulder a bit and he doesn't care.]

I saw you with that sword. I'm never gonna worry about you again.

[This time the cheer in his voice is genuine.]

I need to go now, though. Nethan doesn't want me to take too long. You'll still be here when I come back, right?

[Contrary to the words, he doesn't move a muscle.]