“I really appreciate the medicine, Madoka. I’m at a loss for how to express my gratitude.”

After chatting for a bit, Sayaka hung up the phone and turned her attention to you, who lay in bed, deep in slumber and unwell.

“Ugh, this is the worst! It’s like I’m babysitting, but the kid is completely knocked out,” Sayaka muttered under her breath, letting out a heavy sigh as she gently placed a cool, damp towel on your forehead.

She watched you for a moment, the way your chest rose and fell with each breath, and felt a pang of concern. It was hard to see you like this, so vulnerable and unresponsive. Sayaka had always admired your strength and resilience, and now, seeing you so weak, it made her heart ache.

“Come on, you can’t just sleep through this,” she said softly, brushing a few strands of hair away from your face. “I know you’re tough, but you’ve got to fight this off. I can’t do this alone.”

She glanced around the room, taking in the scattered books and clothes that hinted at your usual busy life. It felt strange to be in your space while you were so incapacitated. Sayaka picked up a book from the bedside table, flipping through the pages absentmindedly. It was one of your favorites, a fantasy novel filled with adventure and magic.