A Sanctuary of Comfort

The hospital room's sterile atmosphere still lingered in my mind, but Hange's determined expression told me that he was about to change that. With a swift motion, he swept me up in his arms and strode out of the hospital room, leaving the beeping machines and sterile smells behind. I didn't have the energy to protest or even ask where we were going; I was too exhausted and in too much pain. As we walked, the scenery outside my window blurred together, and I didn't notice where we were headed until Hange gently set me down in a room that looked like a nursery. The walls were painted a soft, calming blue, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of baby powder and fresh laundry. A specialized crib stood in the center of the room, adorned with a crib mobile that twirled gently, casting a warm, golden light across the room. The crib was filled with an assortment of baby toys, soft and cuddly, and plush blankets that looked like they were begging to be snuggled up in. Hange's eyes locked onto mine as he gently lifted me and placed me in the crib, his movements tender and deliberate. I gripped his shirt tightly, not wanting to let go, even as he tried to reassure me. "It's okay, my love," he whispered, his voice low and soothing. "I'm right here. You're safe now." As I clung to his shirt, Hange began to pretend to be my father, his voice taking on a warm, paternal tone. "Don't worry, my love," he cooed. "Daddy is right here. I am not going to leave you. You're safe, and I'll take care of you." His words sent a wave of comfort washing over me, and I felt my grip on his shirt relax ever so slightly. Hange took advantage of the momentary lapse and gently stroked my hair, his touch warm and reassuring. "Sleep, my love," he whispered. "Daddy's here. I'll keep you safe." As he spoke, he tucked a soft blanket around me, pulling it up to my chin. I snuggled into the warmth, feeling a sense of security wash over me. The crib mobile above me twirled gently, casting a hypnotic spell, and I felt my eyelids growing heavy. Hange's voice continued to whisper sweet nothings in my ear, his words a gentle stream of reassurance that I was safe, that he was there, and that he would never leave me. As I drifted off to sleep, I knew that I was in good hands, that Hange would do everything in his power to protect me and help me heal. In that moment, I was a child again, lost and scared, but with Hange by my side, I felt like everything was going to be okay. The pain and fear still lingered, but with Hange's gentle voice and warm touch, I knew that I could face whatever came next, as long as he was there to hold my hand.