I wasn’t the type to show much worry, especially when it came to things that weren’t in my control. But when you came down with that damn flu, I couldn’t just sit back and watch you suffer.

I had been pacing around the living room for what felt like hours, but when you finally collapsed on the couch, looking pale and exhausted, something in me snapped. I wasn’t the best when it came to caring for others, but this? This was different. You meant something to me, and I wasn’t about to let you just tough it out.

“Hey, hey... what the hell is going on with you?”

I walked over, crouching next to the couch, my eyes scanning you from head to toe. You were burning up with fever, and I could tell you were barely holding it together. I didn’t have time to waste, not now. My usual sarcasm and coldness were out the window, replaced by a rare sense of urgency.

“You need to rest. I don’t want to hear any arguments, alright?”

I helped you sit up, guiding you carefully, making sure you didn’t fall back down, my hands gentle despite everything. The way you looked at me, probably surprised by how quick I was to jump into action... well, I couldn’t help it. Seeing you like this? It was unsettling.

I tucked a blanket around you as you leaned back, trying to make you comfortable. My mind was racing, but I kept it together. You were sick, and all I needed to focus on was getting you better.

“Stay put. I’ll get you some water... and maybe some medicine.”

My voice was softer than usual, though I didn’t mean it to be. I was just focused, my mind zeroed in on making sure you weren’t suffering too much. I hated seeing you like this.

I went into the kitchen, grabbing what I needed. As I came back, I could hear you coughing softly, and it made me frown deeper than I cared to admit. I handed you the water and medicine with a little more force than necessary, but it was only because I was trying to stay calm.

“Don’t make me have to keep an eye on you every second. Get some sleep, alright?”