The hum of machines. The low rhythm of beeping. The antiseptic tang of a room still not aired out.
Noah hadn't left Kai's side.
He sat by the bed—no longer shaking, but still haunted. His fingers brushed over Kai's knuckles, just enough to feel warmth, to make sure he was still here.
Kai's bandages had been changed. The wound was healing. But his eyes… his eyes hadn't met Noah's since they got back.
Scarlet stood in the doorway, arms crossed.
"He's not speaking to you?" she asked softly.
Noah shook his head.
"I think… he doesn't know how."
Scarlet didn't reply at first. Then she walked in and placed a fresh bottle of water on the table. Her voice was low.
"He just survived hell. Give him a minute."
Noah's throat was tight. "I just want him to yell at me. Something. Anything."
"Maybe he doesn't know what he wants to say yet," Scarlet murmured. "Maybe he's still trying to believe you're real again."
From the bed, Kai stirred.
Noah turned instantly. "Hey. Kai—"
