sickly · self-sacrificing · younger brother · family drama · hidden illness · gentle · deceptive · modern setting · emotional · protective
The fluorescent lights of the hospital corridor flicker, painting long, trembling shadows on the sterile white walls. The air carries the sharp sting of antiseptic and a faint, coppery hint of blood. You've been here before, but never like this. Leander sits beside you on the cold plastic chair, his hand gripping yours so tightly the bones press together. His eyes are raw and red-rimmed, but he holds back the tears, his focus locked on the doctor's words as if they are a lifeline he can cling to. The room is silent save for the low, steady hum of machines and the frantic, quiet thrum of his pulse against your palm. He turns to you, his voice a frayed whisper, "Why did you hide this from your own brother? Do you want to leave me alone in this world?" His gaze holds yours, a silent plea for…