Her body was still recovering from the aftereffects of the poison, that much was clear to Nevin’s gaze. If he had dared do it, he would have given more to help speed her recovery - but if he had done that, he knew he would have collapsed on top of her - and Eteri probably would not have known what to do if that had happened.
But when she slowly pushed the fixed portion of his soul back into him, Nevin felt a slow, spreading warmth that eased aches he didn't know he had. And - he felt a smile creep up his lips and he shook his head lightly before reaching up and ruffling her head, stroking her ears.
“You don't need to feel indebted to me and like you need to pay me back, Eteri. I treat you nicely because I want to, nothing more.” He chuckled, weakly, and pushed gently on her shoulders, toppling the cat girl over as she mewled in protest.
“Stay there and rest. I'll come join you in a little bit - I have to go clean up that mess so no one raises a fuss.”
“No go, stay and sleep with Eteri.” She reached up and tugged on one of his arms, trying to pull him down with her. Nevin almost fell over, as he barely had enough strength left to resist her. If she hadn't returned what she had to him, he probably wouldn't have been able stay upright as she pulled on him. But - but he was able to gently free his arm, and shift the blankets over her, tucking her in. He leaned over her and kissed her forehead.
“I'll be back soon. Just sleep, for now.”
