* * * *
Sterling opened his eyes. He felt rather lightheaded, and was sore everywhere. He couldn’t make sense of where he was. The last thing he remembered was the sight of his bloody shirt. He recalled being in Zeke’s arms, as well, but the memory was fuzzy. His lips were dry, and his throat felt scratchy. He attempted to make some noises, but couldn’t. He felt really weak, but wasn’t sleepy. He turned his head slightly to the right and saw Zeke seated in a chair and his head resting on the edge of the bed. That had to be an uncomfortable position in which to sleep. He wanted to call to Zeke, but he was unable to. However, he must have succeeded in making some sort of noise because Zeke abruptly raised his head.
“Sterling! You’re awake! I’m so relieved.”
Zeke started crying, and Sterling’s heart hurt for his boyfriend. He wished he could wipe away Zeke’s tears, but his current condition made that impossible. He tried to console Zeke, but ended up coughing instead.