Lovely Boxer - LeeKnow

33: But you're here, that's the thing

︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

I'll come find you even during dark nights
Because you might be hiding somewhere in my dreams
As I hold you tightly in my hand, sometimes, I cut my hand
But I don't mind the sharp pieces

-Pieces of a puzzle-Straykids(KS,CB)-

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

I felt myself come back to my senses, though this time my head throbbed with an intensity that made every movement feel like a struggle. As I opened my eyes, the world around me was a blur of muted colors and unfamiliar shapes. My vision swam, and I squinted against the harsh brightness that seemed to seep through my closed eyelids even when they were open.

The room was dimly lit, but the soft beeping of machines and soft snores could be heard. My body felt heavy, as if weighed down by an invisible force. The sensation of tangled sheets beneath me and the sterile smell of the hospital room only heightened my disorientation.

It took me a moment to recognize the silhouettes of people nearby. Their tired, tear-streaked sleepy faces came into view as my vision cleared slowly.

 I tried to look around the room, trying to make out what time it was. There was a digital clock on the wall with red digits and a black body, which read 5:43pm. I realized I must have been out for a long time, no wonder everyone was so deeply asleep. My head still throbbed, and I could see the events of the day flash before me as I squinted my eyes close.

I took a deep, shaky breath, my chest rising and falling with a rhythm that felt foreign. Despite the throbbing pain and the disorienting haze, I felt more grounded than I did the first time I woke up.

I tried to move my hand, but the effort was met with a dull ache. I mustered all the strength I had left and managed to reach out, but I realized the grip of Minho's hand.
 His grip tightened instinctively, and he switched the position of our hands beneath his head and went back to sleep.

I could see the faint lines of exhaustion on his face, softened now by the peacefulness of his sleep. The sight of him—vulnerable yet steadfast—brought a small measure of comfort amidst the throbbing pain in my head. The room, though filled with the soft beeps of medical equipment and the occasional shuffle of a nurse outside, felt warmer and more reassuring with his presence. Seungmin and Jeongin were slouched in their seats, their heads tilted at uncomfortable angles as they slept fitfully.

I stayed awake, and although I must have looked calm and peaceful, I can't say the same about what went on in my mind. I tear escaped my eyes as I realized the fact that failed my attempt, now Minho had seen it, and I had brought Seungmin and Jeongin into the mess too. The realization that I had shocked them and exposed what I had worked so hard to conceal made my heart ache even more. 

As I lay there, trying to absorb the comfort of their presence, I couldn't help but feel guilty. They had stayed by my side through so much, sacrificing their own rest and peace for my sake. 

I sniffled, struggling to hold back the tears that threatened to spill, but it seemed my efforts weren't entirely successful. A soft rustle from the other side of the room caught my attention. Minho stirred, his eyes fluttering open. His face changed from confusion to concern , clearly having heard my quiet distress. His hand impossible tightened more around mine.