SEVENTEEN | SICKFICS - HURTFICS

Joshua | Sexually Assaulted Part IV

A few minutes later, Joshua's doctor came in to update Seungcheol. "He's stable for now," the doctor said, a neutral tone in their voice. "The fever is high, but we're managing it. He's also very exhausted, physically and emotionally. He'll need rest and care over the next few days."

Seungcheol nodded, relief flooding through him. "Can I see him?"

"Of course," the doctor said. "Try not to overwhelm him when he wakes up."

Seungcheol stayed by Joshua's side, keeping watch over him, refusing to leave. His mind raced with a million thoughts. What had Jake been trying to do? How had this even gotten so far? And why had Joshua not come to him sooner?

For now, all he could do was be there for Joshua. We'll talk about everything later, he promised himself. But for now, I just need to make sure he's okay.

Joshua's eyes slowly fluttered open, the bright hospital lights blinding him for a moment. His head throbbed, and the dull ache in his limbs reminded him of just how much his body had been through. He blinked several times, trying to make sense of his surroundings. The sterile scent of the hospital filled his nose, and the soft beeping of machines was the only sound in the room.

As his vision cleared, he saw Seungcheol sitting next to the bed, his posture tense but his expression soft. Seungcheol was staring at his phone, but as soon as he noticed Joshua stir, he immediately set the phone down and leaned forward.

"Joshua? Are you awake?" Seungcheol's voice was soft, full of concern, but there was a quiet relief in his tone too.

Joshua slowly blinked up at him, still feeling the weight of his exhaustion. "Seungcheol..." he whispered, his voice hoarse. "What happened? I... I don't remember much."

Seungcheol's eyes softened even more, though his lips pressed into a thin line as he tried to keep his emotions in check. "You passed out. The doctors said you've been pushing yourself too hard." He stop, eyes scanning Joshua's face.

Joshua's mind started to clear, and the memories came rushing back-the practice, Jake, everything. His stomach tightened as he pushed the thoughts away. I don't want to think about that right now. I just want to go home...

Joshua's voice was faint but insistent. "I want to go home."

Seungcheol frowned, his brow furrowing as he tried to reason with him. "Joshua, you should stay here and rest for a bit longer. You're still sick-your fever hasn't completely gone down."

"I'm fine," Joshua protested, attempting to sit up, though the effort left him dizzy and weak. "I just want to go home. Please. I'll be okay."

Seungcheol watched him closely, knowing the stubbornness that ran deep in Joshua. He wanted to argue, but he could see in Joshua's eyes that he wasn't going to stay in the hospital much longer. He needs rest, Seungcheol thought, but I can't force him.

The doctor entered the room just then, noticing Joshua's attempt to sit up. "Ah, you're awake. How are you feeling?" the doctor asked, checking the IV and making sure Joshua was stable.

"I feel... okay," Joshua said, his voice weak. "Can I go home? I don't want to stay here."

The doctor glanced at Seungcheol, who nodded slightly, signaling that he was okay with Joshua leaving as long as he would take care of himself at home. "It's still a bit early for you to leave, but I understand. You've been through a lot. If you're sure, I can release you, but you need to take things easy. You need to stay hydrated and rest. No strenuous activity for the next few days."

Joshua nodded, grateful for the doctor's understanding. "Thank you," he whispered, his eyes already half-lidded from exhaustion.

Seungcheol stepped forward. "I'll make sure he gets home safely," he said to the doctor.