Page 240 of Scarbound

Dr. Daniels waited until his breathing had slowed slightly. “Mr. Jung.”

Noeul didn’t respond.

“I’m going to explain what I need to do next. You don’t have to answer immediately.”

That seemed to register.

“I need to look at the wound on your head.”

Noeul’s fingers tightened against the blanket.

“I won’t touch you until you tell me I can.”

Silence.

Duri remained seated beside the bed. Not touching. Not speaking.

After a while, Noeul looked at him. Duri gave him a small nod. Not permission. Reassurance.

I’m still here.

Noeul turned back toward the doctor. “Head?”

“Yes.”

Dr. Daniels pointed toward his own temple. “Only here.”

Noeul swallowed, then gave another faint nod.

Dr. Daniels didn’t move. “Can you say yes or no for me?”

Noeul’s brow furrowed. It took several seconds. “Yes.”

The word sounded distant.

Dr. Daniels studied him carefully. “Do you want me to do it now?”

Noeul hesitated again. “Okay.”

Only then did the doctor approach.

“I’m going to remove the bandage.”

Noeul’s fingers dug into the sheets.

Dr. Daniels moved slowly enough that every action could be followed. When the adhesive pulled against Noeul’s hair, his breathing hitched.

Duri leaned slightly forward. “You’re here,” he said.

Noeul looked at him. “Duri.”

“Yes.”

Dr. Daniels removed the bandage. The smell of antiseptic reached Noeul. His stomach turned. His eyes lost focus again. The room stretched. Voices became distant.

Dr. Daniels noticed immediately. “Mr. Jung?”

No response.