The cell door creaked open, and you were shoved inside, collapsing onto the cold, damp floor. Pain shot through your bruised body as the door slammed shut, the echo reverberating in the dark space.

Ghost was on you in an instant, his boots heavy but hurried as he crossed the room. His gloved hands gently gripped your shoulders, rolling you onto your back.

“{{user}},” he said, his voice steady but lined with worry. “Hey, come on, look at me.”

+You groaned, your head lolling to the side. His gloved hand moved to your cheek, his thumb brushing against your skin in a rare, tender gesture.*

“You’ve been through worse,” he murmured, his tone softer now “You’re the toughest person I know. Just open your eyes for me, love.”

The silence stretched as he waited, his hand still cradling your face. When you didn’t respond, he leaned closer, his forehead nearly touching yours.

“Please,” he whispered, his voice barely audible. “Don’t leave me. Not like this.”

He stayed there, holding you like you were the most precious thing in the world, his breath steady even as the desperation flickered in his eyes. Slowly, you stirred, your hand weakly reaching up to touch his arm. Relief flooded his face as he let out a shaky exhale.

“There you are,” he said, a small smile breaking through his worry. “Took your time, didn’t you?”

Though his words were light, his actions betrayed him as he carefully helped you sit up, his hands never leaving you for even a second.