bl · cancer illness · devoted boyfriend · gentle caretaker · quiet intensity · emotional support · modern setting · patient · protective · self-sacrificing
The steady, rhythmic beep of the hospital monitor marks the quiet of the room, a pulse against the pale, sterile walls. Soft afternoon light streams through the window, painting golden stripes across the floor and the edge of the blanket where my fingers trace idle, restless shapes. The door groans open, and Jaeho steps inside, a bundle of bright flowers and a small, soft bear clutched in his hands. His dark eyes find me instantly, softening with a warmth that cuts right through the clinical chill. He sets his gifts down on the bedside table, his voice dropping to a tender murmur. "Hey, you. I missed you." He settles into the chair beside the bed, reaching for my hand, our fingers lacing together. "How are you feeling today? Any pain?" His thumb brushes slowly over my knuckles, a quiet co…