First Brother to the rescue

The next morning, Atlas stopped by to visit Allen. He was a bit surprised to see Allen's girlfriend still there.

"You're still here?" he remarked as he approached the bed. The woman quickly stood up, smiling.

"I asked for another leave," she said. "Thankfully, it was granted."

"I see."

"Sir Atlas, I'll just get something to eat," she added, giving Allen's hand a gentle squeeze. But before she could leave, Atlas spoke.

"It's okay," Atlas said. "You don't have to leave. I'm just stopping by to check on him, then I'll be on my way."

She pressed her lips into a thin line and nodded, understanding his intention. She had only offered to leave to give Atlas some privacy. Though she was grateful to Atlas, it was a bit awkward since he was technically a stranger, with Allen as their only connection.

"I heard he was showing signs of waking up this morning," Atlas remarked, earning a hopeful nod from her.