章節 8: Revelations

Vincent shifted in his hospital bed, feeling claustrophobic after spending more than a week in the same room. Despite the luxurious furnishings and state-of-the-art equipment, he couldn't shake the feeling of being trapped. The room was spacious, but it felt suffocating like the walls were closing in on him.

"How much longer am I expected to stay in this place?" he drawled, his voice heavy with boredom.

Nathan glanced up from his phone, his attention clearly divided.

"Don't worry about it, The doctor said you can leave in three days,"Nathan replied, but he seemed distracted, his attention focused on his phone.

Vincent scowled, sensing that something was off. "What's going on?" he asked, peering at his friend.

Nathan hesitated, his eyes flicking back and forth between his phone and Vincent.

"It's nothing," he said finally, forcing a laugh.

Vincent didn't buy it. "Don't lie to me," he said, his tone sharper this time.

"Okay, fine. But you might not like what I have to say," Nathan sighed, his fingers tightening around his phone

Vincent braced himself, feeling a sense of dread coiling in his stomach.

"Just tell me,"

Nathan took a deep breath, steeling himself. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest as he steeled himself for what he was about to say. Finally, he forced the words out, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Elaine and Justin are together now."

Nathan's words hit Vincent like a ton of bricks. His heart sank, and he felt a sudden tightness in his chest as he struggled to process the news. He had been hoping that Elaine would remain single, at least for a while longer, but now it seemed that his chance with her was gone.

His mind raced as he tried to come up with a response, but all he could manage was a weak nod

He took a deep breath, trying to regain his composure, but the reality of the situation was hard to ignore. Elaine was with someone else now, and Vincent wasn't sure if he could handle it.

"It's okay, It's not like Elaine and I are dating or something,"he said finally, forcing a smile.

Nathan didn't look convinced, but he didn't push the issue. Instead, he tried to distract his friend with other topics, talking animatedly about their plans for the future and the adventures that awaited them. Vincent listened half-heartedly, his mind still reeling from the news about Elaine and Justin.

Vincent tried to focus on Nathan's words, but his mind kept drifting back to her. It hurt to think that the woman he loved is now with someone else.

"Listen, I know someone who could help take your mind off things," Nathan said, pulling out his phone. "She's a model, and I think you two would hit it off."

He quickly tapped a few buttons and turned the phone to show Vincent a picture of a stunningly beautiful blonde woman. Her long hair cascaded down her shoulders in soft waves, framing her heart-shaped face perfectly. Her eyes were an enchanting shade of green, and her cute smile was both charming and alluring.

Vincent raised an eyebrow. "A model? What am I supposed to do, impress her with my hospital gown?" he joked, trying to lighten the mood.

Nathan chuckled. "Don't worry about that. You're a good-looking guy, and you have a great sense of humor. That's all you need to win her over."

Vincent couldn't help but laugh at Nathan's suggestion, his eyes crinkling with amusement.

"Since when did I become a good-looking guy?" he asked, his voice laced with sarcasm.

Nathan chuckled, shaking his head. "Come on, man. You know you're a catch," he said, grinning at his friend.

Vincent shook his head, still amused. "You need to get your eyes checked, my friend," he said, grinning.

Nathan rolled his eyes. "Don't be modest. You're a great guy, and any woman would be lucky to have you," he said, his tone sincere.

Vincent felt his cheeks flush with heat. It had been a long time since anyone had said something like that to him, and he wasn't sure how to react. Maybe Nathan was just trying to be supportive, or maybe he really believed it. Either way, Vincent appreciated his friend's words.

"Thanks, man," he said finally, feeling grateful for Nathan's support.

"No problem. Now let's get you ready for tomorrow. We have a model to impress." Nathan clapped him on the back.

"Actually, I don't think I'm ready for that," Vincent said, his voice hesitant.

"What do you mean? This could be a great opportunity for you," Nathan looked surprised.

Vincent shook his head, feeling a sense of dread creeping up on him.

"I appreciate the offer, but I don't think I'm in the right headspace to start seeing anyone. I need some time to figure things out," he said, his voice soft.

Nathan's expression softened. "I understand," he said, putting a hand on Vincent's shoulder. "Take all the time you need. I just want you to know that I'm here for you, no matter what."

Vincent felt a wave of gratitude wash over him. He was lucky to have a friend like Nathan, someone who always had his back, even in his darkest moments.

"Thanks, man,"

Nathan squeezed his shoulder before standing up.

"No problem. And hey, if you ever change your mind about that model, just let me know," he said, winking at Vincent.

Vincent couldn't help but smile, feeling a glimmer of hope for the first time in a while. Maybe he wasn't ready to start seeing anyone just yet, but he knew that he would get there eventually, with the support of his friend by his side.