Catch 22

39

My eyes slide open and I'm immediately calmed by the feeling of a rough calloused hand in mine.

I cut my eyes to my side and the corners of my slips slip upwards and the sight of Calum, leaned over the bed, his blue hair barely hanging over his forehead as his head is propped up on his free hand.

His eyes are closed and he looks so peaceful. I hesitate to wake him up. My eyes lift and I see Kate asleep in the rooms recliner, Copeland spread over her chest both of them releasing muted snores.

Yesterday was a lot for everyone and I'm glad they're getting some rest. I hope they haven't worked themselves sick over me but I know Kate and I know Calum so I feel the twist of guilt in my stomach knowing they likely haven't been asleep for long.

The handle on the door clicks as a nurse enters. She walks quietly but the other occupants of the room are still roused from their sleep and I feel my face set in a frown that they've been awoken.

"I'm so sorry to wake you." The nurse offers quietly.

" 's okay." Calum whispers, his voice low and raspy, still full of sleep.

Copeland continues to sleep, the one positive.

"Sage, were gonna bring you breakfast in a bit and the doctor will be by around eight to discuss your biopsy results from yesterday, okay?"

I nod and Calum looks over to me.

His brown eyes, usually golden are darkened and full of concern.

My throat tightens from the knowledge that I'm the reason his eyes have lost their sparkle.

The nurse slips from the room again and I glance at the clock in the wall in front of me. It's just after six in the morning.

"What time did you get here?" I ask him softly as he sits up and scoots his chair closer to my bedside. His hand never leaves mine but his free hand comes up to push my dark locks off of my face. His fingers slide down my jawline and he lifts my chin as he leans in to press his lips to mine.

"I got in about midnight." They brought you back about one and I must've finally dozed off about an hour ago." He said, resting his chin on top of her hand, the scruff on the side of his face rubbing against the skin that wasn't covered by wires, IV lines and medical tape.

"I've been here since six last night. I was asleep when Cal got here and he watched Cope so I could get some real rest until they brought us back here." She yawns, pulling the baby back closer into her chest.

My heart squeezes at the kind gesture of him watching my niece so my sister could sleep. The bags that still remain under her eyes showing just how much she had surely needed whatever rest she had managed to get.

We all glance to the door as the nurse returns with a plate of food for me. I frown at the site of what was sure to be a bland meal, my dietary restrictions more strict than ever with the possibility of rejection looming over my head.

"How was the show? How are the boys?" I ask, as I take a mouthful of whatever this is supposed to be, oatmeal maybe?

Cal's gaze flickers over my face, his eyes still remain dark and missing the light I so love to see in them.

"It was fine. My mind was here the whole time." He says softly, his fingers squeezing tightly against my own. "The boys asked about you like I knew they would. I think they may come visit later today if that's okay. They miss having you around. Just like I do."

I contemplate his response.

"I'd like to see them." I decide. "Are the girls 'round too?" I question, suddenly longing to see everyone who'd made me feel welcome in the midst of my own disasters on the tour.