Yuyama moaned on the futon with a high fever. Her temple was throbbing so badly it felt like an elephant had rammed into her forehead. Her body felt so weak and useless, she could barely pick up a cup of tea and try to sip some of the hot drink.
She lay in bed for weeks, groaning in pain and sleeping away most of the day. The troupe took turns taking care of her. Even Kobako and Benimaru helped by getting her a new towel when it needed to be changed.
I guess I should've had listened…I've been working my body too strenuously. If Akizuki found out, he would freak out and rush back home. Oh what have I done?
Yuyama pried open her eyes, blinking as her eyes adjusted to the bright light. Then, her mind jolted wide awake when she saw who was looking down at her with a furrowed expression.
"Akizuki!" She croaked in shock. How is he home already?
His eyes widened when he saw that she was awake, but they softened when he hushed her and murmured "You need to rest. The doctor told me that you've been working your body too much." He pressed his hand over her hot, feverish one and held it firmly.
"She's been recuperating very well. She should be fully recovered in a few days." The doctor declared as he packed up his equipment.
"Thank you, Doctor-sama." Akizuki said, never taking his eyes off of Yuyama. His eyes looking straight into hers made her feel better, knowing that he was right beside her, solid and real.
The doctor took his leave and closed the door, leaving the two of them alone in the room.
"Silly you, what have you been doing while I was gone?" Akizuki whispered. Yuyama whimpered and closed her eyes.
"I've...I just…" Yuyama didn't know what to say. She felt that whatever answer she gave him would merely be excuses.
"…missed you so much…" Yuyama finished with a shaky voice, feeling her eyes welter with tears.
Akizuki brought her hand up and gently brushed them with his lips. She quivered at the touch. He glanced back up at her and whispered "I know…I missed you a lot…we…have a lot to discuss…" Yuyama nodded her head and tried desperately to keep her eyes open.
Akizuki noticed and urged her to sleep.
"Don't worry. I won't leave. I'm staying right here with you."
The words with you echoed in her head as she sank into the void once again.