"And there we go," the nurse said.
I examined my arm. I'd barely even noticed her hooking me up.
She left promptly, but not before eyeing Nathan one more time.
"Your dad gave me a lecture about what to expect and how I'll be able to help you." He held up a bag with the clothes I'd changed out of when I slipped into the hospital gown. "Apparently it's my job to make sure your clothes are kept safe."
"It's an important job. That's my favorite shirt." I traced my fingers along the lines of his palms. "You've really impressed my parents. My dad won't say it out loud, but he actually likes you. I didn't think it would happen so soon."
"I'm surprised it happened at all," he said.
"I knew they'd love you if they got to know you. You're sweet and wonderful and thoughtful and amazing."
"I think you're describing yourself," he said, although I could see the tips of his ears turn red.
My head started to get a bit fuzzy and when I blinked, my eyelids stayed shut for a split second too long.
"I think the meds are kicking in," I told him.
"I'll be here the whole time," he promised.
I let my eyes close. I wasn't quite falling into sleep, but it helped with the dizziness.
After a few minutes, I heard someone else come in.
"It's time," they said.
Nathan squeezed my hand. I squeezed back weakly. He let go and they began wheeling me out.
I memorized his touch and carried it with me.
* * *
* * *
The hushof a quiet recovery ward was the first thing that registered. Soft voices, shuffling shoes, quiet beeps.
"Hey there, gorgeous," I heard someone say. "You awake?"
"Mmhm," I mumbled. I peeked my eyes open.
The most beautiful man I'd ever seen was hovering in front of me. Nathan. My boyfriend.
"Wow," I said. "You're really pretty."
"Talking about yourself again?" he teased.
I tried to shake my head back and forth and couldn't. My neck felt like rubber. "No, like,reallypretty."
"Well, I think you're pretty, too," he replied with a stifled grin.
"Not pretty like a girl," I continued. "Pretty like… you. 'Cause you're really pretty."
He laughed and stroked my hair.
"How do you feel?" he asked.
"Um…" I took an inventory of my various aches. "Head feels woozy. I'm thirsty."
