Lead The Way (BL)

FORTY-TWO

(unedited)

Gene stared at the 'get well soon' cards piled at the foot of his hospital bed. As he looked from cards brought at convenient stores to handmade cards with ribbons and lace, a sigh couldn't help but escape.

For the next hour, Gene methodically rummaged through the pile, reading each and every card. Some cards made him chuckle, while others made him cringe from the vivid contents. There were over sixty cards that had been sent to him, and this didn't include the cards that were waiting his return at the company.

However, the sentiments expressed in each and every card was not unappreciated. Even though everyone, including the media, thought he was recovering from a relapse due to his health, he was still moved. Gene may be arrogant at times, but he wasn't ungrateful. For these people, these strangers, to send him cards with their heartfelt feelings and their desire to help him in a time of need, of course he'd want to give something in return. It may seem out of character for the original Cia but Gene was unable to return a favour.

For now, he could only write a lengthy post on his social media accounts, with some pictures assuring his small group of fans that he was recovering well. It may not be much but he took his time to write his true thoughts. He also didn't forget to upload a picture with his band mates, expressing his gratitude for their support during this trying time.

After sharing this post, he received a lot of positive feedback in return. Mixed in were some people trying to sow discord but overall his post was well received. In fact, when he woke the next morning, he was surprised to see it had been shared over a few thousand times.

Just how big was Cia's fan group? Apparently, it had grown since his last broadcast appearance.

The same day, Gene received word regarding Jade's current state but it wasn't as positive as he'd liked, and his mood immediately dampened.

"Your brother has shown small signs of activity, so we've decided to transfer him to a larger facility in the Capital to assist in his recovery. However, as his sole relative, we do require your permission."

As the doctor explained his visit to Gene, a familiar face entered the room like a ghost.

Dylan looked even more haggard than he did two days ago. His skin seemed pasty, as if all the life had been drained from him. The light had also completely disappeared from his eyes, turning a dull shade. He no longer radiated his usual overbearing pressure.

Upon seeing this obvious change, Gene felt his chest tighten and rubbed it lightly to loosen some of the building tension.

The doctor noted Dylan's presence. He greeted him briefly then told Gene he'd give him some time to think about the transfer before leaving the room. After all, Jade's well-being laid in his younger brothers hands.

"What are your thoughts on the transfer?"

Dylan seemed surprised when Gene asked him for his opinion. He turned away from the window and blinked a few times. However, he didn't hesitate in replying.

"The Roane Hospital has better facilities and expertise for coma patients. The family who operates the hospital is also trustworthy and professional. Sending him there wouldn't be a bad choice. However, you won't be able to visit him everyday."

This point did make Gene feel a little unwilling but he percieved this as a physical reluctance belonging solely to the body. Otherwise, he would gladly send this brother to get better treatment, even if it meant shipping him off to another country.

"Then I will sign the papers for his transfer. Will you go with him?"

Dylan didn't reply but the small smile tilting his mouth was answer enough. The pain in Gene's chest intensified. At this point, there was no denying the attraction this body bore for Dylan, but could the same be said for the soul residing inside?