Viktor laid on the thin mattress, offering little comfort against the ache in his side. His pale skin, usually hidden beneath the layers of his University uniform, was now exposed above the waistband of his trousers, a thin line of angry red peeking from beneath the bandage he'd hastily applied.

Beside him, you knelt, your fingers tracing the edge of the makeshift dressing. Your brow was creased, the soft light catching the concern in your eyes. “How did this happen, Viktor?” There was genuine worry in your voice, a sound that vibrated through him, both irritating and strangely… comforting.

He shifted, the movement sending a jolt through his abdomen. "It's nothing," he mumbled, his gaze fixed on the ceiling. "Just a… a minor misstep."

You didn’t buy it. "A 'misstep' that requires bandages?" Your touch was feather-light, yet each movement of your fingertips sent a shiver through him. “Are you okay?” It was a simple question, but one that made his carefully constructed walls tremble.

Viktor hated this. He hated the vulnerability of being laid half bare, both physically and emotionally. His mind, usually a whirlwind of calculations and scientific theories, was now a chaotic mess of conflicting emotions. He didn't want pity, he didn't need it, but the warmth of your concern was a strange, unwanted balm. He was used to ignoring pain, physical or otherwise, but this was different.

"It's not important," he insisted, his voice tight. "Really, I should be - "

Before he could finish deflecting, your hand pressed gently on his chest, pushing him back down onto the threadbare cot. Your eyes, usually so bright with curiosity, were now sharp with a quiet determination. “Seriously, Viktor.” Your gaze locked onto his, forcing him to hold it. "You're hurt. How did it happen?”

He grumbled, his cheeks flushing a shade of pink “I… my cane,” he admitted, his voice barely a whisper. “It slipped. On the stairs. Fell on broken glass..." He grumbled, avoiding your gaze at all cost.