Beyond the Badge

Chapter 7

Morning sunlight filtered softly through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the bedroom. Ohm had barely slept; he’d stayed by Nanon’s side through the night, watching over him as he rested fitfully, the memories of his ordeal still haunting his sleep. Despite the occasional murmur or shiver, Nanon managed to sleep peacefully enough under Ohm’s watchful presence.

As the first rays of dawn crept across Nanon’s face, his eyes fluttered open. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, he took in his surroundings—the unfamiliar yet comforting room. Nanon found Ohm sleeping beside him, their hands still intertwined. He watched Ohm's peaceful face, feeling a deep connection.

Ohm who was already awake noticed him stirring and leaned forward, his gaze gentle yet alert. “Good morning,” he greeted softly, his voice filled with relief. “How are you feeling?”

Nanon tried to sit up, wincing as a dull ache reminded him of the bruises still marking his skin. “It’s… better, I think.” His voice was unsure, as if he were still adjusting to the safety of his new reality.

Ohm reached out and helped Nanon sit up, fluffing pillows behind him,
helping him sit upright, careful not to hurt him. “Good." Ohm nodded, handing him a glass of water and medication.

He helped Nanon out of bed and supported him to the bathroom.
"Do your morning routine and if you need anything, don't hesitate. Just give me a call. I will be in the kitchen.

As Nanon brushed his teeth, Ohm prepared breakfast.

Ohm came back to take Nanon to the the dinning table. "I’ve made some breakfast. You need to eat to regain your strength. Let's get out of the room for it, okay?"

Nanon glanced toward the kitchen, his expression shy. “You don’t have to do all this, P’Ohm… I don’t want to be a burden.”

Ohm shook his head, his tone firm but warm. “You’re not a burden, Nanon. I want to help you, to make sure you’re safe and cared for. Let’s get you fed.”

The inspector placed one of Nanon's hand on his shoulder supporting his body and held his hand while keeping a firm hand on his shoulder. Nanon looked away, feeling a bit awkward. "You don't have to, P'Ohm. I can manage."

"I want to," Ohm replied, his eyes meeting Nanon's, "You need it."

Nanon leaned on Ohm, his legs trembled. "Come on, Nanon, just a few more steps," Ohm encouraged.

As they were about to reach the table Ohm supported him, his arm around Nanon's waist. "You're doing great. I'm proud of you."

Nanon smiled weakly. "Thanks to you, P'Ohm."

With Ohm’s gentle guidance, Nanon managed to get out of bed making his way to the small dining table, where a modest breakfast was laid out.

Ohm wanted to feed Nanon like he did last time but the later insisted on eating on his own.

While they were savoring the breakfast quitely Ohm kept sneaking glances at Nanon, who was nibbling his toast carefully, his bruises still visible but healing. The calm was comforting, a rare respite in their world of chaos.

Over breakfast, Nanon asked, "your with me since I came here, I think I am coming between you and your duties."

"Don't worry about my work Nanon. I'm on my leave and my colleagues are no less dutiful than me. They are handling everything efficiently." Ohm answered.

"But... You should not waste your leaves for me." Nanon said meekly.

"I'm not wasting them, I am using them." Ohm focused back on eating.