Agents in Love [LingOrm]

I stepped into Ling's hospital room to find her sitting at the edge of the bed, finally dressed in her own clothes. The sight of her in familiar attire rather than the pale hospital gown brought a sense of relief I hadn't expected. It made her look more like herself—the stubborn, determined Ling I knew—rather than the frail patient I had watched over for days.

Beside her, Freen stood with her arms crossed, listening intently as the doctor spoke. Ling was nodding along, but I could tell her attention wasn't fully on him. The moment her eyes met mine, her face lit up, and she patted the mattress beside her, wordlessly asking me to sit.

I obeyed without hesitation, slipping into the spot next to her. The instant I was within reach, she took my hand, her fingers curling around mine like it was the most natural thing in the world. Her grip was warm, familiar, and despite the doctor's presence, she didn't let go. My chest tightened at the silent intimacy of it.

The doctor glanced at our exchange but made no comment. His expression was unreadable as he continued, "She shouldn't exert herself too much. I understand she's an agent, but she needs to stay active—sitting or standing is fine, but avoid lying down for long periods. And no bending over. That could slow the healing process."

Freen nodded in understanding. "Can she sit in chairs? Lean against things?"

"Yes. The wound is closed now, so there's no risk of reopening it. Just be cautious not to put too much strain on the area."

Ling made a face at the restrictions but remained silent.

"Great. Shall we?" Freen asked, turning toward her.

Ling nodded but ignored the offered hand. Instead, she looped her arm around my shoulder, shifting her weight onto me.

I shot Freen an apologetic look, but she only sighed, exasperation evident in her posture. "Ling, let Orm go. You might be off duty, but she isn't."

Ling pouted but begrudgingly adjusted her stance, leaning against Freen instead. "Okay," she mumbled.

With slow, measured steps, they made their way out of the hospital room, and I followed close behind, watching carefully in case she needed support. When we reached the car, I stepped forward instinctively, steadying Ling as Freen helped her inside.

"I can take care of this stubborn girl," I offered, guiding Ling's movements with careful precision.

Freen shook her head, a knowing smirk tugging at her lips. "No need. She'll be clingy now that she's injured—just ignore it. I'll have one of her maids look after her."

I hesitated, my fingers still resting lightly on the car door. "Can you at least give me her address? I need to drop something off that she gave me."

Freen studied me for a long moment before holding out her hand. "Give me your phone."

I handed it over, and she quickly typed in the location before returning it.

"Thanks," I said, pocketing the device.