CHAPTER FIVE

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As Babe lay there, silent and withdrawn after finally waking up, Alan and Charlie exchanged worried glances. He just looked at them and looked away. Not talking to them or even showing any sign of interest that they were there.

"Babe, how are you feeling?" Charlie asked again hoping that maybe this time he'll answer but that was not the case.

"Is it normal for him to be like this?" Alan asked the doctor, concern etched into his features.

The doctor nodded thoughtfully, his expression sympathetic. "Given the circumstances, it's not uncommon for patients to experience trauma-related silence after a distressing event."

Charlie's heart sank at the confirmation of his fears. He reached out to gently brush the stray lock of hair on his forehead .

"We'll give him some time," the doctor continued, his voice gentle yet firm. "But if he doesn't start opening up soon, I'd recommend seeking professional help to address any underlying issues."

Alan and Charlie nodded, silently acknowledging the doctor's advice. They were determined to help Babe to get through this.

As they sat by Babe's bedside, a heavy silence hung in the air, broken only by the soft hum of medical equipment.

"Charlie, I think I'll step out abit. Jeff is waiting for me." Alan said after checking his phone. Charlie just nodded not taking his eyes off Babe.

"I'll come back later with some food okay." He added patting Charlie back before stepping out.

Charlie reached out and gently clasped Babe's hand in his own, relieved when Babe didn't pull away but instead allowed the contact.

Squeezing Babe's hand gently, Charlie offered a soft, reassuring smile, even though he knew Babe might not be ready to return it. "I'm here for you, Babe," he whispered, his voice barely above a murmur. "You don't have to go through this alone."

Charlie sat in silence, his thoughts a whirlwind of worry and uncertainty. But he refused to let his fears consume him, focusing instead on the steady rhythm of Babe's breathing and the reassuring warmth of his hand in his own.

As time passed, Charlie found himself lost in thought, should he tell him now or should he wait until he's able to speak. He later decides against it because he does not want to put more pressure on him and make matters worse.

"P'Babe." He began.

"I'm sorry. I couldn't come in time to save you...this is all my fault." He spoke head hanging low.

"But you do not have to worry now, you're safe.... Everyone is worried about you.... Actually we were able to track you because of North and Sonic, those two can really be helpful sometimes....I.."

Lost in his monologue, Charlie didn't notice when Babe's fingers twitched slightly in his grasp. Startled, he looked up, meeting Babe's gaze for the first time.

Babe's eyes were glassy with unshed tears, his expression a mix of vulnerability and sadness. Charlie could not help but cup his face. Rubbing his cheek gently to reassure him that everything was going to be okay. Even though Babe could not speak yet, Charlie knew he would have started blaming himself instead. Babe had this habit of not putting himself first, he always thought about others and forgot to look at himself. Many times Charlie had to remind him that he could take care of himself when Babe wanted to protect him and hide him from everyone.

Charlie squeezed Babe's hand gently, offering a silent yet steadfast source of comfort. "It's okay, Babe," he whispered, his voice soft and reassuring. "You don't have to say anything if you're not ready. Just know that I'm here for you, no matter what."

Babe's throat felt tight with emotion as he struggled to find the words to express the turmoil raging inside him. He wanted to tell Charlie everything-to share the fear and uncertainty that threatened to consume him-but the words caught in his throat, trapped by the weight of his own insecurities.

Instead, he squeezed Charlie's hand back, a silent yet powerful gesture.

As they remained seated in silence, holding hands, Babe gradually drifted into sleep. It was the first time he felt truly comfortable and safe since the harrowing events of the past hours. Surrendering to the embrace of slumber, he allowed himself to let go of the turmoil in his mind, focusing solely on finding rest. With every breath, he pushed aside the worries and fears, immersing himself in the tranquility of the moment.


As Alan and Jeff entered the hospital room, Charlie greeted them with a tired yet grateful smile. "Hey, guys," he said softly, his voice carrying a hint of exhaustion. "Thanks for coming."

Alan's eyes immediately sought out Babe, concern etched into his features as he took in his friend's sleeping form. "How's he doing?" he asked, his voice filled with worry.

Charlie glanced over at Babe, a small smile tugging at his lips as he observed the peaceful expression on his face. "He's sleeping now," he replied, his tone gentle. "The doctor said he just needs rest and time to recover."

Jeff nodded, his expression mirroring Alan's concern. "Well, we're here for whatever you need," he said, offering Charlie a supportive pat on the shoulder.

Charlie nodded gratefully, his fatigue momentarily forgotten as he appreciated the solidarity of his friends that he now considered family. "Thanks, guys," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "I really appreciate it."

As Alan handed Charlie the food he had brought, Charlie's stomach rumbled, reminding him of his own needs. He realized with a pang of guilt that he hadn't eaten anything since the previous day, too preoccupied with Babe's well-being to think about himself.

"Thanks, Alan," he said, accepting the food with a grateful smile. "I'll eat in a bit."

As the morning light filtered through the window, casting a warm glow over the room, Charlie settled back into his chair, his gaze never leaving Babe's sleeping form. Despite the exhaustion that weighed heavily on his shoulders, he knew he couldn't leave Babe's side.

"Jeff, Can I ask you something?" Suddenly Charlie turned to Jeff.

"Mmh"

"Like in private." He gave an apologetic look to Alan who was now looking at him with concern. When Jeff looked at him he understood and excused himself asking them if they wanted coffee. "Yes please." Charlie said and Alan left.

"So... what is it?" Jeff turned his attention to charlie.

"Uh...where should I even start, okay. You are an omega right?" Jeff just furrowed his eyebrows.

"I mean I... actually just want to know more about your lifestyle... yeah something like that" he fumbled through the statement.

"Uh.. what? You are not cheating on Babe are you?"

"No, never. Let's just say I'm.... curious." He didn't want to tell anyone about babe's current situation just yet. But with Jeff it seems like that might not be easy.

"I don't know what you are planning but, okay" that was easy. Charlie thought.

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