Page 37 of Protective Love

He's a patient, not a friend.

I barely even know him.

But, I feel like I do know him… I'm getting to know him, and although that would've scared the hell out of me a week ago, it's actually been really nice.

He's nothing like what I'm used to.

He's nice, and sweet, and he cares, not only about me but about everyone and everything.

Even when he's laid up in a hospital bed, healing from a torrent of injuries, he still cares and worries about other people.

It's admirable.

Chapter Nineteen

Jaylen

When Sophia and Kaleb walk in the room, the dread and disappointment that kept me awake half the night buries itself deeper inside my bones.

"Where's Jess?" I ask, hoping that they'll tell me she's just getting food or is on her way.

The bright smile that was taking over Sophia's face drops, and I know immediately that Jess isn't with them and likely isn't coming.

"She said that she had some stuff to do and would see you another day," Sophia mutters, walking over to me.

Kaleb follows closely behind her, pulling out the chair at my bedside and hovering over her as she sits down.

"Seriously, Kaleb, leave me alone," she bites out, glaring at him.

"I'm just making sure you're okay,dolcezza."

"I'm sitting in a god damned chair, Kaleb. I'm fine, so back up a few steps and stop being so overbearing."

"How about some food? Are you hungry? Or thirsty? I could go get you something," he suggests, his eyes running over her as if he's looking to see if she's injured in any way.

"I could do with some food," I tell him, glaring at the empty tray on the table beside me. "They don't feed me enough here, and it's not as good as Myra's food either."

"I wasn't asking you," Kaleb bites out.

"Are you two okay?" I ask, watching the unusual behaviour between them.

"Yes, we're fine. Kaleb's just being Kaleb."

"He's acting ten times worse than he usually does," I state, frowning at the pair.

"I know," Sophia huffs as she pushes Kaleb away from her.

He finally relents and moves to the other chair in the room, but his eyes stay glued to Sophia.

"How are you feeling today?" she asks, turning to face me with a small smile on her face.

I contemplate lying to her and telling her that I'm fine, but Sophia knows me too well and would easily figure out that something's not right, so instead, I sigh and grimace.

"I feel like shit," I tell her, looking away when a wave of concern washes over her face. "Jess and I sort of had an argument last night, and I think that's why she's avoided coming here today. Hell, I think that's why she's avoided seeing me all together since I've been awake."

"What did you argue about?" she asks, scooting forward in her chair.

Kaleb clears his throat from beside me and stands up, glancing between us.