Morning sunlight filtered in through the blinds, washing the infirmary in soft gold. The usual hum of activity returned, but it was calmer now. Voices were low, measured. It was one of those rare quiet mornings.

  Vivian was seated up in bed, her bandages freshly changed, the pain manageable. Her platinum hair was tied loosely behind her back, a few strands falling across her face as she leaned forward to stretch a little.

  The door clicked gently, and Whiz stepped inside, his usual energy muted but present. He looked tired, eyes a little red-rimmed, but when he saw her awake and sitting up, a genuine smile broke across his face.

  “You’re up,” he said, walking over.

  Vivian raised an eyebrow. “You actually came back.”

  He let out a short laugh. “Hey, I keep my promises.”

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  Her lips curled into a soft smile—real, this time. “Didn’t expect you to.”

  He sat beside her bed, giving her a quick once-over. “How’s the pain?”

  “Still there,” she said. “But better.”

  “Good.” He paused for a second, then added, “I’ve got some news.”

  Her expression turned curious. “Yeah?”

  He nodded. “yesterday there was a briefing. Officers met to talk about everything that happened. Razor gave his full report.”

  Vivian didn’t respond, just listened, watching him closely.

  “They’ve officially assigned you to Hale’s team,” he said. “Hale suggested it, and Razor backed him up.”

  Vivian blinked. She didn’t look upset, just… thoughtful. Processing.

  “They didn’t really ask for your input,” Whiz added quickly, “which kind of sucks, to be honest. I figured you'd want to know firsthand.”

  Vivian sighed softly, looking toward the window. “Guess that means I’m staying.”

  Whiz tilted his head. “That okay with you?”

  She didn’t answer right away. Then, a faint smile touched her lips again. “Better than ending up with complete strangers, I guess.”

  He grinned. “You’ve already saved half of us. You’re part of the mess now.”

  Vivian gave him a light look. “Great. That’s exactly what I wanted to be a part of. The mess.”

  He laughed again, standing up. “Well, mess or not, Hale’s team isn’t too bad. Razor vouched for you, by the way. You made an impression.”

  Vivian’s brow arched slightly. “That so?”

  Whiz nodded. “Big time. Just… thought you should know.”

  Vivian leaned back, exhaling slowly. “Thanks. For telling me. And for keeping your promise.”

  He gave her a mock salute. “Anytime. I’ll check on you later.”

  And with that, he turned and left, the door shutting quietly behind him.