Between The Lines

Chapter 55: The Infirmary

Rebecca's POV(1st Person):

The walk back to camp was quiet, the cool night air wrapping around us. Mr. Montgomery's arm was around my waist, supporting me as I limped along. Despite everything, I couldn't deny the attraction I felt for him. His presence was both comforting and frustrating, and I couldn't decide which emotion was stronger.

When we reached the small cabin that served as the infirmary, the nurse, an older woman with a warm smile, ushered us inside. The cabin was cozy, with a few beds lined up against one wall and a small desk with medical supplies against the other. The nurse quickly assessed my injuries and then pointed to a spare set of pajamas on the bed. "You can change into these," she said gently. "They should be more comfortable."

I nodded, feeling a bit embarrassed by all the attention. As I changed behind a small divider, I winced with every movement, my shoulder still sore and my foot throbbing. The pajamas were soft and warm, a welcome change from my wet swimsuit. When I came back out, Mr. Montgomery was standing near the door, his hands in his pockets, watching with concern.

The nurse carefully tended to my foot, cleaning and bandaging the deep cut. Mr. Montgomery stood by, his eyes never leaving me. I felt a mix of guilt and frustration, remembering how angry I had been with him earlier. He did deserve some of it, but seeing him so concerned made me feel a bit bad for my harsh words.

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Lane's POV: (1st Person):

As the nurse finished tending to Rebecca's injuries, she handed her a couple of pills and a glass of water. "These will help with the pain," she said kindly. "Try to get some rest. I'll be back in the morning to check on you."

Rebecca nodded, taking the pills and the water. As soon as the nurse left the room, Rebecca tried to swallow the pills quickly, but she choked, sputtering and coughing as the water dribbled down her chin.

I rushed to her side, patting her back. "Easy, Rebecca," I said, my voice laced with concern and amusement.

She finally managed to swallow the pills, her face red with embarrassment. "Well, that was graceful," she muttered, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand.

I chuckled softly, my eyes twinkling with amusement. "You always manage to keep things interesting."

She sighed, feeling a strange mix of vulnerability and gratitude. "Thank you," she said softly, looking up at me. "For staying."

"Anytime," I replied, my voice warm.

As she settled into the bed, I moved closer, sitting beside her. The warmth of my presence seemed to comfort her, and I felt myself starting to relax. Despite everything, there was a sense of safety in the quiet infirmary.

"I guess the nurse is gone for the night," she murmured, glancing around the empty room.

"Looks like it," I said, feeling a bit awkward. "Do you want me to stay?"

She hesitated, biting her lip. "Yes," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Then I'll stay," I said, my tone gentle but firm.

Rebecca gave me a small smile, then winced slightly as she shifted on the bed. "I think I need to lie down."

"Here, let me help you," I offered, carefully adjusting her position on the narrow bed. As I did, I felt an overwhelming urge to protect her, to keep her safe from everything that had happened.

She lay back against the pillows, her eyes drooping with exhaustion. I hesitated for a moment, then decided to lie down beside her, moving slowly to avoid startling her. The bed was narrow, and as I settled in, we ended up in a spooning position. Her back was against my chest, and I wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her gently closer.