Dangerous connection (Freenbecky)

Chapter 06

As Dr. Ling continued tending to Freen's wounds with meticulous care, the room seemed to close in around Becky. Her eyes flicked between them, watching the way Dr. Ling hovered over Freen, her touch gentle yet focused. Every movement felt too intimate, too close, and Becky couldn't ignore the tightening in her chest.

"Freen, this is going to sting," Dr. Ling murmured, her voice soft but professional. She brushed a lock of hair behind her ear as she carefully stitched his wound.

Freen winced slightly but nodded. "It's fine, Ling. Do what you need to."

Becky shifted uncomfortably, clutching the crowbar in her hands a little tighter. Her gaze lingered on the way Dr. Ling worked, her proximity to Freen unsettling in ways Becky couldn't quite explain. She wasn't the jealous type—or at least, she didn't think she was. But something about seeing Freen, vulnerable and cared for by someone else, made her stomach churn.

"You're lucky the injury wasn't worse," Dr. Ling added, her tone filled with concern. "I'll have to keep an eye on it to make sure there's no infection."

Becky cleared her throat, stepping forward. "I can keep an eye on him, too," she said, trying to sound casual, though her voice betrayed her. "I mean, he's been through a lot, and—well, we're all looking out for each other, right?"

Dr. Ling glanced at Becky, giving her a polite smile before turning her attention back to Freen. "Of course. But these injuries need special care for a full recovery."

Becky's jaw tightened. Special care. Right.

Freen, noticing the tension, shifted in his seat. "Becky," he said, his voice calm but reassuring, "it's okay. Dr. Ling and I go way back. She's just being thorough."

Becky forced a smile, though her grip on the crowbar remained firm. "Yeah, sure. Just... making sure you're alright."

Freen caught the glint of something in Becky's eyes—something he hadn't noticed before. He sighed softly, then turned toward her, his expression softening. "Hey, Becky, listen," he said quietly, his tone gentle but firm. "There's nothing going on between me and Dr. Ling. We're just old friends, and she's here to help. That's all."

Becky hesitated, feeling a flush of embarrassment creep up her neck. "I didn't—"

"You don't have to worry," Freen continued, cutting her off with a reassuring smile. "I know this whole thing's been intense, but we're all in this together. You're the one who has my back out there. Don't doubt that for a second."

Becky's heart stuttered at his words, and the tension in her shoulders eased a little. She gave a small, reluctant nod. "Alright, Freen," she muttered, casting a quick glance at Dr. Ling, who had now stepped back to pack away her supplies. "I guess I was just... being stupid."

"Not stupid," Freen said, his voice low so that only she could hear. "Just looking out for me. And I appreciate it."

Dr. Ling stood up, wiping her hands and giving Freen a final nod. "You're all set for now, but don't push yourself too hard. I'll check back in tomorrow to make sure you're healing properly."

"Thanks, Ling," Freen said, though his eyes were on Becky.

Dr. Ling gave a polite nod to the rest of the group before quietly excusing herself, leaving the room in a hushed silence. Becky, still feeling a little flustered, shifted her weight and glanced at Freen.

"You sure you're okay?" she asked, softer this time.

Freen grinned. "Yeah. Thanks to you, I am."

Becky felt a warmth settle in her chest at his words, and for the first time since the skirmish, the jealousy that had clouded her thoughts began to dissipate.