(he claimed he’s not sick, but it’s easy to see. His face is paler than usual, and he can barely move, but keeps protesting that he’s fine, and you don’t need to worry.)

“Doll, I said I’m fine.”

(he said, when you came back with a bowl of warm soup and tea. But you knew him well enough to tell he was lying. His eyes were dull and tired, and he had dark bags under his eyes)