As much as Dana says the hoodie was oversized, it only seemed to apply to her. Their size difference was still rather large that even with the hoodie on, one could still tell that Roland’s body was muscular. No, no matter what the man wore, they definitely would be able to tell that he has the strength to fight. Fighting wasn’t an option right now though, and they both know it.
They took cautious steps and turns as they navigated their way to the hospital which Dana worked for.
Once there, Roland just couldn’t believe his eyes with the sight that greeted him in the emergency room. The number of people on hospital beds that are covered in bruises was far more chilling that just the mere sight made him stop in his tracks.
“Roland… come on, You shouldn’t be staying here” For a brief moment, his attention turned to her. He already knew that. He knew one of the guys might have shown his picture around while… “searching” for him and “asking around”
“I’m sorry, you’re right” He heaved a deep sigh and clenched his fists, steeling himself to look away from the horrendous scenes that lay on the hospital beds.
He was taken to the nurse’s lounge on the ground floor and the number of eyes that were trained on him sent shivers down his spine. Being ogled at shouldn’t be new to him yet most of the time, he was looked upon with either lust or fear. The glances he received from the number of nurses present spoke something else he couldn’t quite understand, however. They were all of mixed emotions but one thing was sure; as soon as Dana explained the circumstances, their gazes softened and they allowed him one of the spare beds in the lounge that he could use to rest in. He was grateful for the gesture and went ahead to the one they told him to use.
“Promise me you’ll try to sleep. I have to get started on my shift. Please don’t come out of here no matter what.” Contrary to Dana’s usual stern look when they were in her apartment.. Here, she almost looked like she was pleading as she carefully pushed him on the bed so that he could lie down.
She was painfully aware of the mess he had caused in their peaceful town. And if anything, she knew that if he was left unsupervised, he would be doing something reckless like hunting down the guys that were hunting him down.
She wasn’t going to be taking any chances. Yes, he looked like he could fight. Yes, he looks strong but he’s still injured and dying from blood loss and stupidity should be the last thing on his list… hopefully.
“Hey, you don’t need to worry so much about me, I’ll stay here. I already promised you in the apartment, remember? I always keep my promises” As soon as he was comfortable in the nurse’s bed, he pulled the thin blanket over himself and ushered her away with the most assuring smile he could offer her.
With a nod, Dana stood and rushed to the lockers where she changed and placed all her stuff in her assigned locker. After having done so, she rushed back to the ER where she assisted in treating all the victims that were on the verge of death. It was horrendous. Some were stabbed, some had so many bruises and even a few broken bones. Just from those, she was certain that she shouldn’t let Roland fall back into their hands. These men were ruthless.
Meanwhile, Roland tossed and turned. As much as he had promised Dana that he would sleep, he was growing restless. The family was getting too far with having to involve innocent civilians. This wouldn’t be happening if he hadn’t wished to leave the family like that when he was this defenseless. No, he wasn’t defenseless, they were playing dirty like they always did. Somebody rigged his bulletproof vest. Somebody sabotaged his guns and dulled out his knives.
Just the memory of his escape was getting him more livid. One of the nurses took notice of this and came to check up on him
“Hey, you okay? You look like you need to take a dump” The stranger teased as she approached closer to his bed
“I’m fine… just can’t get some sleep” For a while, he stopped tossing and opted to just lie on his back
“Hospital beds aren’t comfortable, we all know that but it’s the best we can offer” She seated herself on the bed adjacent to his “So what’s up with you and Dana? You guys look pretty chummy that she’d let you stay here”
“I… honestly don’t know. She saved me from death, that’s for sure. She let me stay with her for a while.” Unconsciously, his hand ghosted over the bandages that covered the stitches she had made just the other day. It still hurt but not as much as before. It was healing at least. She found me in the alleyway near her place” He heaved a soft chuckle as he glanced over to the nurse.
“Hm. Don’t think she’d bring anyone home if she found someone injured like that”
“I didn’t want to go to the hospital at first. And she offered”
“Didn’t think she’d have that side to her but oh well. She asked me to check up on you so you better try to sleep before I inject you with sedatives”
He knew she was teasing but the seriousness in her tone made it more believable than it should have sounded so without a second’s delay, he pulled the blanket over himself again and shut his eyes.
He could hear her laughter fading and the door creak shut. He knew he was safe again but he still tried to sleep everything off.
The day ended. They headed back to her apartment together and for the next couple of meals together, Roland offered to cook. He was definitely no stranger in the kitchen after having to live alone for so long. The usually tired Dana couldn’t be more appreciative of the gesture. And so, for the next couple of days, their new routine was established
Okie, I was pretty busy with work and trying to satisfy my drawing and gaming needs so I only got to work on this today :"""
Definitely have to make sure that I get to the action on the next part
Waeyooooo, bitinssss 🤧, more more more 🙋🙋🙋😂. Sana naman wala ng mangyari sakuna suskoporudy. Waiting sa nexttt 🙋