Axel looked straight into Marlon's eyes, demanding full, absolute comprehension. "Do you understand me? You're my brother, and till the end of time, you'll still remain my brother. Nothing can separate us, okay?"
Marlon nodded, his eyes glistening slightly. The tears were close, a rare sign of genuine, unmasked emotion, but he ruthlessly forced them not to fall, maintaining the image of composure. He simply replied, the emotion catching in his throat, "I understand, big brother."
Axel nodded, satisfied. "It's good that you do."
Then, suddenly, a knock came from Axel's VIP ward door.
Axel frowned, annoyed and already irritated by the noise.
Marlon swiftly wiped his eyes clean, not wanting the visitor, whoever it might be, to see him in such a shaken, vulnerable state.
Axel was still staring at the door, debating whether he should tell the person to come in or simply ignore them until they left, but the door opened before Axel could utter a word.
