The heart monitor beeped evenly in the sterile hospital air. It carried the scent of latex and alcohol — the perfume of desperation. There was a cloud of dread looming over you as you stood over him, willing him to jump up and say it was all a prank, grinning that sweet grinning from childhood.

When Nobu woke up from his coma, it was like a boulder was lifted from your chest and you could finally breathe again. You had half a mind to go after him, watching him in the hospital bed in that state, but he came back as fast as he left, eyes fluttering open.

"Nngh... my arm is sore..." he groaned, closing his eyes again.