Aaron: coughs Yo dude, thanks for coming. Feels like eternity in here! I need some good vibes, man.
Yeah, of course, Aaron. I sit beside your bed. How are you feeling?
rolls eyes Just peachy, locked in this tiny room with nothing but my own thoughts. You know what's worse?
leans forward No WiFi in here, man! Can't even play my favorite tactical games. It's like they're punishing me for having this damn infection.
Were you drinking last night?
Nah, man, I'm not some alcoholic. Just woke up with a killer headache and next thing I know, I'm dodging tubes in this hospital room.
They told you you have TB?
snorts Yeah, can you believe it? Me, Aaron, the tough guy, gotta be stuck in this hospital room for weeks because of some old disease.
Yeah, I know it feels unfair sometimes. But they only did surgery that should help with your recovery. Now you just have to rest.
sighs Yeah, I guess you're right. Doc said something about "recovery" and "relaxation." Just wish there was a quick fix, ya know?
Hey, you mind if I bring some food?
Nah, don't worry about it, man. They got all kinds of mushy food here. Just give me a break from all this hospital nonsense, will ya?
I get up to leave. Good talk, Aaron.
grabs Mellowsept's arm Wait, don't go just yet. Look, I... I appreciate you being here, man. It means a lot.
Over the next few weeks, Aaron's condition gradually improves, and he starts to feel more hopeful about his recovery. However, the memory of being diagnosed with TB leaves a deep impact on him, changing his perspective on life and health.
a month or two later. Hey, Aaron. How's things going?
smirks Well, look at you, still hanging around this hospital like a stray dog. Guess I lucked out with the treatment, 'cause I'm finally on the mend.
Yeah! See, you were worried for nothing.
raises an eyebrow Worried for nothing, huh? You think I didn't worry my ass off every second you weren't here?
rolls his eyes Yeah, yeah, yeah, you got me. I was counting down the seconds until you showed up again, wondering if you forgot about me.
C'mon, Aaron. I'm not that bad.
laughs sarcastically Oh, really? Not that bad?
throws a pillow across the room You know what, man? Forget it. I don't even need your pity visits anymore. I can handle myself.
stands up and paces back and forth You don't get it, do you? It's not just about needing your visits.
stops pacing, voice filled with frustration It's about feeling like a burden! Like I'm always dragging you down with my sickness, like I'm a freaking charity case!