Real Strength Comes From Within {Vi X Reader}

Chapter 15: Tenderness

When you regain consciousness, your surroundings are hazy and blurred. The sterile smell of a hospital lingers in the air, and the sound of beeping machines fills your ears. You try to move, but a sharp pain shoots through your body.

Seeing you movement, a figure in a white lab coat approaches your bedside, their face kind and reassuring. The doctor, a middle-aged man with a gentle demeanor, greets you with a warm smile.

"Good to see you awake," he says in a soothing voice. "You've been through quite an ordeal. How are you feeling?"

You wince as you attempt to speak, your voice raspy and weak. "Pain... lots of pain."

The doctor nods in understanding. "That's to be expected considering your injuries." He checks the monitors and adjusts the IV drip, making sure you're comfortable. "I'll increase your pain medication to help manage the discomfort. Just give it a moment."

As the medication takes effect, you feel the intensity of the pain lessen, allowing you to relax slightly.

"I apologize if these questions seem silly, but as per protocol, I need to ask. Can you tell me your name, where you think you are, and any of the information you remember regarding your condition?"

You answer his questions your voice hoarse from lack of use, and he nods reassuringly.

"That is correct. You suffered a gunshot wound, fractured three ribs, and your left clavicle is broken. Due to blood loss, you ended up in mako-induced coma." He quickly wrote a few notes down onto his clipboard. "The friends that brought you in said you woke up from your coma once already, so you're just here for your final checks before you can be discharged fully."

You take a moment to process the information, trying to recall the events that led to your injuries. However, your memory remains fragmented, and the details elude you.

"But I... I can't remember what happened," you repeat, frustration seeping into your voice.

The doctor nods sympathetically. "Memory loss can be a common side effect of trauma. Your mind may gradually recover those memories as you continue to heal. It's important not to rush the process... but if you have any questions, your friends have been informed of how to properly answer them."

The doctor continues, "In terms of your condition, we've managed to stabilize you. You're making good progress, and after a few more tests you'll be able to go home."

"When will the tests be conducted?" you ask, your voice still weak.

The doctor checks his watch and glances at your chart. "They should be starting shortly. We just need to ensure that your vitals are stable and that there are no signs of infection. In the meantime, I'll let your friends know you're awake. Would you like them to come in?"

You nod, "Please."

The doctor gives you a reassuring smile and heads out of the room to fetch the rest of the group, who sit impatiently in the waiting room. As you wait for their arrival, you take a moment to collect your thoughts and tentatively test your range of movement. You lift your arms and flex your hands, feeling a slight stiffness and soreness. You cautiously wiggle your toes, relieved to find that they respond to your command.

Before long, the door bursts open and Caitlyn, Asben, Serah Jinx, Kyouwa and Niro have gathered at your bedside, "You have no idea how good it is to see you!" Serah beams, gently running a hand through your hair.

Caitlyn's eyes glisten with tears as she reaches out to hold your hand. "We were so worried about you."

Lightning, Vi,  and Kyouwa step forward, circling your bed as well with expressions of relief.