Chapter 11: Reversal of Fortune

Regulus's eyes fluttered open, and he was met with the sight of Jane standing over him, her face set in a determined expression. He tried to speak, but his voice came out as a mere whisper. Jane's gaze softened, and she reached out to gently brush a strand of hair out of his face. "Don't try to talk, Regulus," she said, her voice gentle. "You're not well." Regulus's gaze drifted to James, who was sitting in a chair beside the bed, a smug smile still plastered on his face. Regulus felt a surge of anger, but it was quickly replaced by a wave of exhaustion. Jane followed his gaze and turned to James. "Get out," she said, her voice firm. "You need to leave him alone." James raised an eyebrow, but Jane's expression didn't waver. He stood up, his movements slow and deliberate, and walked out of the room, leaving Regulus and Jane alone. As soon as the door closed behind James, Jane turned her attention back to Regulus. "I'm going to get you out of this," she said, her voice filled with conviction. "I'm going to make sure you're safe and healthy again." Regulus tried to respond, but his body was weak, and he couldn't muster up the energy to speak. Jane seemed to understand, and she reached out to take his hand. "I promise, Regulus," she said. "I'll do everything in my power to help you. You just need to hold on." Regulus's gaze locked onto Jane's, and he felt a spark of hope ignite within him. He squeezed her hand, and Jane smiled, her eyes filling with tears. As they sat there in silence, Regulus felt a sense of peace wash over him. For the first time in weeks, he felt like he wasn't alone, like there was someone who cared about him and was willing to fight for him. Jane sat with Regulus for hours, holding his hand and talking softly to him. She told him stories about her childhood, about her family and friends. She talked about her job, and her passions. Regulus listened intently, his eyes never leaving hers. As the sun began to set, Jane stood up, her movements gentle. "I'm going to go get some food," she said. "You must be starving." Regulus nodded, his eyes drooping. Jane smiled and leaned down to kiss his forehead. "I'll be right back," she said. As she walked out of the room, Regulus felt a sense of gratitude wash over him. For the first time in a long time, he felt like he had hope. He felt like he might just make it through this after all.