AllFreeNovel
Share Us
The dark lashes fan against his cheek, fluttering before opening, and it’s like finding out that Narnia is real and magic revived our hero, Aslan. It’s fucking incredible. His eyes dart around the room as if he’s terrified.
“Remi,” the doctor practically shouts. “Stay calm so we can take the intubation tube out. I’m going to ask you to exhale on three. One.” He starts, and each second is like an eternity. When Dr. Raj says the number three, they swiftly pull out the tube and Remi immediately breathes on his own.
God, I missed those beautiful browns. I grab his hand. “You’re okay, boy scout. You’re safe.”
His gaze lands on Cody, flitting to Kiara, and then settling on me. His terror softens, but his breathing is still rapid.
Running my fingertips gently down his arm, I soothe him. “There’s nothing to be afraid of.”
His tongue dips out of his mouth as he licks dry lips that I want to lose myself in.
“Do you think you can talk?” Dr. Raj asks.
I give Remi an encouraging smile and his stare doesn’t leave mine, blinking once, twice, then a small sound comes out of his mouth. He swallows, his demeanor turning earnest.
“I know, love. Take your time,” I reassure because the last thing he needs is pressure.
As if he suddenly remembers my hand in his, he gives me a gentle grip, communicating the best way he can.
“Me too,” I murmur.
Fright colors his gaze as it widens. “Isa.” It’s a hint of her name, but I know exactly what he wants.
“Isabel is absolutely perfect. You saved her life.”
His eyes slide shut, and the rise of his chest softens. I almost panic that he’s going under again, but when his lids open wide, they are clear and aware, and loving.
“You’re still an asshole, but we’re so happy you’re back.” Kiara ribs her brother.
The corner of Remi’s mouth lifts slightly.
“Don’t you smirk at me,” she warns, her words more playful than threatening.
We all laugh, giddy and excited. Aside from giving birth, this is probably one of the best days of my life.
“Can you tell me your name?” Doctor Raj steals Remi’s attention.
I want to scream, He just woke up! Give him a break! I’m about to tell him to back off when Remi peaks.
“H-hot.” It’s a scratchy whisper, but it’s something.
“Are you hot? Nurse, check if he has a fever.” Dr. Raj backs away to make room for Vicky.
Remi shakes his head, seemingly frustrated. “H-hot m-ma.”
I wait with bated breath, hanging on every utterance that comes out of his mouth. Unease unfurls in my stomach because he’s not making sense.
“Dude, say your name,” Cody demands impatiently, like it’s the easiest thing in the world for someone with a traumatic brain injury.
Remi takes a deep breath. “Hot.” Cough. “Ma—Mann-y.”
My mouth falls to the ground while everyone else is in various states of confusion. The side of his mouth lifts. I fall to my knees, crying out in relief, euphoria, and gratitude.
A hand falls to my head, and I peer up at Remi with so much adoration. His thumb makes small circles in my hair. He’s the one hurting, yet he’s trying to comfort me.
“Okay, before I have a flipping heart attack, please tell me you know what he’s saying,” Kiara harps.
“Yes, that would be helpful.” Dr. Raj pulls us back to reality, where other people exist outside my Remi bubble.
