The soft beeping of a machine pulled me back to consciousness. Slowly, I opened my eyes and found myself in a white room. My gaze wandered, taking in the sterile surroundings, the plain walls, the faint scent of disinfectant, and the steady hum of medical equipment. It didn't take long to realize I was once again in the place I'd grown far too familiar with, the hospital room.
I let out a quiet sigh and turned to my side, only to find Nix sound asleep beside me. His red hair was tousled, falling across his face as he rested his head on the small space left on the bed. One of his hands was wrapped gently around mine as if fearing that I'll slip away.
A smile tugged at my lips as I watched him sleep so peacefully. It had been months since I'd last seen him like this, at ease, and unburdened. The morning sun caught the chain around his wrist, its glint making my smile grow even wider.
