To Bear

“His condition is stable now. He can be discharged.” I nearly cried with relief right in front of the doctor. I took his hand and shook it, unable to find the words to express how grateful I was. The doctor grinned and gave a nod before leaving the room, closing the door behind him. I looked at Ethan. He was staring out the window with his arms crossed. I sat beside him and gently stroked his hair. “Ethan, I’m getting you out of here. Aren’t you happy?” I whispered. I reached out to touch his cheek, but he recoiled and looked away. A sharp pain hit my chest. I was completely confused by his reaction. “Ethan, look at me.” I stood up and moved around the bed, blocking his view of the window. He kept his head down, his eyes hidden behind his messy hair. I raised my hand to touch him again, but he spoke before I could. “Leave me alone, Natasha,” he grumbled. His voice sent a chill through my entire body. I froze, staring at him in disbelief. Was he serious? My hands hover