65. Don't leave me

Roseline's POV

Placing the stuff that I brought for his care on the side table, I went to retrieve a clean cotton handkerchief, preparing it to be used as a cold compress.

Dipping the cloth into the water, I gently spread it across his forehead. As the coolness of the cloth made contact with his fevered skin, his eyes flickered open. They were bloodshot, mirroring the reddened tip of his nose, and his lips, once vibrant, now appeared pale, chapped, and parted as he struggled to breathe through his congested nose. He was now inhaling through his open mouth as his airways were completely blocked.

"I told you..." he began to mutter, his voice strained, and I knew he was going to stop me.

"Shhh...." I shushed him before he could scold me. "Just keep your mouth shut for now." I placed my finger on his lips.

He let out a sigh, as if finally giving in, and closed his eyes once more, throwing his head back on the pillow. I kept the cool cloth pressed gently against his forehead, providin