In the hospital room.
Gilbert lay with thick gauze wrapped over his eyes. After sleeping for an entire day and night, he finally woke.
Sunlight streamed in through the window, yet his world remained pitch-black.
As the anesthesia wore off, sharp pain radiated through his eyes. His arm twitched.
"Gilbert, you're awake?" Claire, who had been keeping vigil at his side, immediately asked in surprise and relief.
"I want water." His lips were dry and cracked, his voice hoarse with thirst.
"Okay, I'll get it right away." Claire hurried to fill his jade cup with warm water, placed a straw inside, raised the head of the bed, and guided the straw to his lips.
Gilbert drank greedily, like a wanderer finding an oasis, finishing the entire cup before exhaling softly.
Claire gently wiped his lips with a tissue.
"Anila." Gilbert froze, then suddenly caught her hand, overjoyed.
Claire stiffened, bitterness rising in her chest.
