Awakening to Reality

The darkness had receded, and I was once again aware of my surroundings. The infirmary lights, though still bright, no longer seemed as harsh as they had when I first woke up. Hange's hand was still wrapped around mine, his grip firm but gentle. I turned my head, taking in the sight of him. His eyes, though tired, sparkled with a warmth that made my heart swell. As I looked around the room, I noticed the various tubes and wires connected to my body. I felt a pang of discomfort, but Hange's presence was a balm to my frazzled nerves. Dr. Kyuin, the surgeon who had performed my operation, stood on the other side of Hange, a look of concern etched on her face. "How are you feeling?" she asked, her voice soft and gentle. I tried to respond, but my voice was still hoarse from the anesthesia. Hange handed me a cup of water, and I took a sip, feeling the cool liquid soothe my parched throat. "Better," I managed to croak. Dr. Kyuin smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "That's good to hear. We've been monitoring your progress, and so far, everything looks good. You'll need to stay here for a few days to recover from the surgery, but after that, we can start discussing your rehabilitation." Rehabilitation. The word sent a shiver down my spine. I had heard stories about the long and arduous process of recovering from a spinal cord injury. But with Hange by my side, I felt a sense of determination that I hadn't felt in a long time. Hange's eyes locked onto mine, and I could sense his concern. "What can I do to help?" he asked Dr. Kyuin. The doctor smiled. "You can start by being here for him. Emotional support is crucial during this time. We also need to make sure he's taking his medication and following his physical therapy regimen." Hange nodded, his face set in a determined expression. "I'll be here," he said. "I'll take care of him." As the doctor left the room, Hange turned his attention back to me. "I'm sorry," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm sorry this happened to you." I smiled weakly, feeling a surge of love for him. "It's not your fault," I said. Hange's eyes searched mine, and I could sense his guilt. "I should have been more careful," he said. "I should have protected you." I shook my head, feeling a pang of frustration. "You can't blame yourself for this," I said. "Accidents happen." Hange's face was etched with concern, but I could see the guilt slowly receding from his eyes. He leaned in closer, his face inches from mine. "I'll take care of you," he whispered. "I'll make sure you get better." As he spoke, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. With Hange by my side, I knew I could face whatever challenges lay ahead. The machines surrounding me continued to beep and whir, but I felt a sense of hope that I hadn't felt in a long time. The room fell silent, the only sound the steady beep of the machines. Hange's hand remained wrapped around mine, a constant reminder of his presence. I closed my eyes, feeling his warmth seep into my bones. As I drifted off to sleep, I was aware of Hange's presence, his hand still grasping mine. I knew that I was in good hands, and that together, we would overcome anything. But little did I know, reality was about to set in, and our journey was just beginning.