Captive

chapter 57

A Place to Belong

The morning sunlight filtered through the hospital curtains, casting a soft glow on Bible’s face. He was sitting up in bed, his movements slow and careful as he adjusted the sling supporting his arm. Jeff hovered nearby, the ache in his chest tightening as he watched Bible struggle to even perform simple tasks.

The doctor had just given Bible the green light to be discharged, advising two weeks of bed rest at home to ensure his ribs and arm healed properly. The news should’ve brought relief, but Jeff’s thoughts were clouded with uncertainty.

Bible’s brother, Tong, was already packing Bible’s bag, his expression cold and efficient. Apo stood next to him, helping fold clothes with a quiet determination. Neither of them paid Jeff much attention. In fact, Jeff felt like he had become invisible — a bystander in Bible’s recovery.

Where do I fit in this? Jeff wondered. What am I even doing here?

His fingers curled around the handle of Bible’s bag, a reflexive gesture, but before he could lift it, Tong stepped in, brushing his hand away.

“I’ve got this,” Tong said, his tone sharp and dismissive.

Jeff’s jaw tightened, but he let go, his eyes falling to the floor. He felt useless, a weight rather than a help. He wasn’t family. He wasn’t even sure what he was anymore. A lover? A mistake? The lines were too blurred to define.

Bible noticed the shift in Jeff’s demeanor, the way his shoulders sagged slightly, and his eyes darkened with unspoken doubt. He wanted to say something, to reassure him, but his body still ached, and the tension between his brother and Jeff was suffocating.

“Let’s get you home,” Tong said to Bible, avoiding Jeff’s gaze entirely.

They slowly made their way to the hospital exit. Bible leaned on Jeff for support despite Tong’s objections. The heat of Bible’s body against his side should’ve reassured Jeff, but instead, it only deepened the chasm of uncertainty.

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At the entrance to Bible’s house, the familiarity of the place struck Jeff hard. He had been here before — under far different circumstances. Memories of that night of chaos and fear, of being kidnapped and held against his will, clashed with the gentler reality of now.

Jeff hesitated at the doorway, his feet glued to the ground.

Tong led Bible inside, guiding him to the living room couch and setting down his things. Apo flitted around, adjusting pillows, fetching water, making everything comfortable for Bible.

Jeff lingered near the door, hands shoved into his pockets, heart pounding. He couldn’t shake the feeling that he didn’t belong here. Everyone seemed to know their place — except him.

Tong turned, his eyes narrowing. “Why are you still here?”

The words cut through Jeff like a knife, but before he could answer, Bible spoke up, his voice steady despite his exhaustion.

“He stays.”

Tong’s eyes flared with irritation. “Bible, we can take care of you. You don’t need—”

“I want him here,” Bible interrupted, his gaze unwavering. “Jeff stays with me.”

The room went silent. Jeff’s breath caught, a mixture of relief and doubt swirling inside him. He wanted to believe Bible’s words, but the cold stare from Tong made him question everything.

With a huff, Tong turned away. “Fine. Do what you want.” He grabbed his keys and walked out, slamming the door behind him.

Apo glanced between Bible and Jeff, offering a weak smile before following Tong, leaving the two of them alone.