Nicholas’s POV
Waking up felt like dragging my body out of a storm.
My head ached. My tongue was sore. The sterile smell of antiseptic filled my nose. Soft beeps and low murmurs crept in from the hallway, mixing with the steady rhythm of my heart monitor.
I blinked open my eyes slowly. The room was dim, filtered sunlight slipping through the blinds. My mouth was dry, and my limbs felt heavy—like they’d fought a war without me.
Then I heard voices.
Zack.
And… Andrew?
Zack’s voice was sharp. Protective. “He doesn’t need you here. Just leave.”
“I’m not here to fight,” Andrew said. “I just want to see him.”
“I said leave, West.”
I forced out a whisper. “Zack…”
He turned to me instantly. “Nick. You’re up.” His hand was already reaching for the call button, but I shook my head weakly.
