In Between Us || Zhanyi

As the doctor turned to leave, Zhan quickly stopped him. "Wait," he said, his voice firm but laced with urgency. "When can I take him home?"

The doctor hesitated for a moment before replying, "He's stable, but I'd recommend keeping him under observation for at least two to three days—"

That wasn't an option.

"No," Zhan interjected immediately, his grip on his husband tightening instinctively. "I want him discharged as soon as possible. Whatever aftercare he needs, any treatment—I'll arrange everything at home. I'll do whatever it takes. If he required specialist doctors, nurse or health advisors or any medicine or diet or exercise, anything—But I want him comfortable, and that means being home."

The doctor sighed, already aware of the man's status and influence. He had seen this determination before—the kind that refused to take no for an answer.

After a moment, the doctor relented with a nod. "I understand. I'll approve the discharge, but not before tomorrow morning. I want him under supervision at least one more night here for safety."

Zhan clenched his jaw but gave a short nod, accepting the compromise.

"I'll personally visit at your place for his follow-ups," the doctor offered, sensing how fiercely protective he was.

Zhan nodded, his expression resolute "Thank you, Make sure everything is prepared for a seamless discharge."

The doctor, understanding the weight of Zhan's authority and concern, assured him. "Everything will be arranged, and I'll oversee it myself." the doctor added, then fixed him with a more serious gaze. "But remember this—Mr. Xiao, Your husband is severely fatigued, both physically and mentally. Stress like this is dangerous for him. He needs complete rest—no strain, no pressure. No talk, no event that has the potential to trigger him. Not even the slightest. He needs peace to recover."

Zhan's fingers tightened around Yibo's body, "I understand. I'll make sure he gets everything he needs."

A tense silence settled over them for a moment as Yibo stirred subtly, his breaths shallow, face gentle. The doctor straightened, glancing between the devoted man and the patient before continuing, "Good!! Then for tonight, I'll monitor him closely. If his condition changes, please let me know immediately."

Zhan responded with a quiet, determined smile, "I will. I'm right here."

As the doctor noted down few more things to prepare the discharge papers and ready to leave, he added kindly, "Take care of him—and yourself."

The door closed behind the doctor, leaving the couple in the soft, flickering glow of the hospital room. He resumed his tender vigil, whispering promises and soothing words into the stillness, his unwavering love a silent pledge that no storm, no matter how fierce, would ever separate them.

The room fell silent once more, save for the steady rhythm of Yibo's breathing against Zhan's. He looked down at his now peaceful face, his fingers brushing lightly over his cheek. He leaned, lips brushing on the younger's cheek "Just one more night, love. Then I'm taking you home."

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For a while there was no movement at all, Zhan remined at his place with Yibo snuggling close to him, a heavy silence settled over the room. Then Zhan let out a slow breath, his gaze falling back to his husband. His face was still pale, his lashes trembling slightly as if he were caught between sleep and consciousness.