Buddie: Partners in Fire

Chapter 41

Scene: Hospital Room, Morning

The first rays of morning light filtered gently into the hospital room, casting a soft, golden glow over the two figures entwined on the bed. Eddie and Buck lay together, wrapped in each other’s arms, their faces serene and peaceful in the tranquility of sleep. The room, usually filled with the constant hum of medical equipment and the bustling of hospital staff, was unusually still, the atmosphere thick with a sense of calm and recovery.

Bobby entered the room quietly, his footsteps muffled by the soft hospital flooring. He paused at the sight before him, his heart swelling with a mix of affection, relief, and pride. There, on the narrow hospital bed, Eddie held Buck protectively, their bodies intertwined in a comforting embrace. Buck’s head rested against Eddie’s chest, his face finally free from the pain and fear that had plagued him in the past days. Eddie’s arm was draped gently over Buck’s shoulder, his hand resting lightly on Buck’s right hand, which had begun to show signs of healing.

Bobby smiled warmly, his eyes softening at the tender scene. He pulled out his phone and snapped a quick photo, capturing the moment forever. He knew Athena would want to see it, a testament to the strength and love that bound their family together through thick and thin. He sent the photo to her with a simple message: "They’re both resting."

He settled onto the small couch in the room, careful not to make any noise. The room was filled with the soft sounds of their breathing, the steady beeping of the monitors, and the occasional murmur from Buck as he shifted slightly in his sleep. Bobby watched over them, his own heart finally easing at the sight of their calm and comfort.

A couple of hours passed in peaceful silence. The hospital staff came and went, mindful of the sleeping men, their movements quiet and respectful. The sense of calm and recovery was almost tangible, a stark contrast to the chaos and fear that had dominated the previous days. Bobby closed his eyes for a moment, allowing himself to rest while still keeping a watchful eye on his two 'sons'.

Eventually, a nurse entered the room to check on Buck. She was a middle-aged woman with kind eyes and a gentle demeanor. She noticed Bobby and smiled.

Nurse: "Good morning. How’s everyone doing in here?"

Bobby: "Morning. They’re both finally getting some rest. Eddie texted me earlier to tell me that Buck had a rough night, but Eddie managed to calm him down."

The nurse nodded, her eyes moving to the sleeping figures on the bed. She approached quietly, checking Buck’s vitals and adjusting the IV.

Nurse: "That’s good to hear. Rest is the best medicine for both of them right now."

Bobby: "Yeah, it’s been a tough few days. Buck’s been through a lot, and Eddie’s barely left his side."

The nurse gave Bobby a sympathetic look.

Nurse: "It’s always hardest on the ones who are watching. But it’s clear how much they mean to each other. That kind of love and support can make all the difference in recovery."

Bobby: "Absolutely. Eddie’s been a rock for Buck. They’re good for each other."

The nurse finished her checks and made a few notes in Buck’s chart.

Nurse: "He’s doing well, considering everything he’s been through. The burns are healing, and his vitals are stable. The emotional trauma will take longer, but with Eddie here, he’s got the best support he could ask for."

Bobby: "Thank you for everything you’re doing for him. It means a lot to all of us."

Nurse: "Just doing my job. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask."