The days passed quietly, filled with steady effort. By the second week after his discharge, the sunlight had grown gentler, and Hiro’s strength was gradually returning after his illness. Every morning, the sound of his footsteps during rehab echoed softly through the living room, while Zero Two sat nearby—sometimes counting beats, sometimes gently reminding him of his rhythm.
Today was their second follow-up appointment.
Zero Two had gotten up early to prepare a light breakfast for Hiro. She kept checking the time, slightly anxious. “Darling, don’t forget your mask—or I’ll scold you,” she said, though her actions were full of tender concern.
In the consultation room, the doctor looked at the reports and smiled. “Based on your numbers and muscle strength recovery, you’re doing great. At this rate, you’ll likely be able to return to school by your next visit.”
Hiro’s eyes lit up, and Zero Two immediately turned to look at him, her gaze sparkling with pride. “Told you, Darling would make it.”
The doctor added, “Even after returning, avoid intense activity for a few weeks—especially P.E. You can get excused while we monitor your condition. Also, don’t join any clubs or after-school events just yet. Rest is still essential.”
Hiro nodded, a wave of emotion welling up inside him. From bedridden to walking the path back to school—it was all possible because of Zero Two’s support and encouragement.
On their walk home, spring filled the streets with its gentle breath. Cherry blossoms had begun to bud. Zero Two swung the medical file playfully in her hand and grinned. “Darling, once you’re back in the kitchen, I want that dessert you promised me. Remember the strawberry cream cake?”
Hiro gave her a tired smile. “I’m still in rehab, and you’re already placing orders?”
“It’s not an order—it’s a wish list,” she said, leaning her head on his shoulder. “Because you made a promise. And I haven’t forgotten.”
“Alright, alright. Once I’m more mobile, I’ll make a whole bunch for you.” Hiro chuckled, but in his heart, he felt a steady warmth. This wasn’t just recovery—it was returning to their rhythm.
Back home, Zero Two helped him out of his coat and onto the sofa before heading into the kitchen to prepare lunch. The scent of eggs and fresh vegetables drifted out while Hiro stretched his legs and browsed the medical instructions they brought home.
Later in the afternoon, it was time for daily rehab. As usual, Zero Two brought out the water bottles and light dumbbells, laying a soft mat on the floor for him. She tracked his sets and reps, occasionally tapping him with her pen. “You slacked off on this one. That’s an extra set tomorrow.”
“You’re not a coach,” Hiro muttered with a half-smile.
“I’m your personal coach, nurse, and future wife,” she replied with a radiant grin, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.
As the sun dipped low, painting the sky pink, they sat together on the balcony. Zero Two pulled out her sketchbook and began to draw a cherry blossom tree they had seen budding along the road.
“I’m calling this one The Road Home. I’ll pin it on the wall when you go back to school.”
Hiro looked at her profile and softly said, “Zero Two, thank you for staying by my side.”
“Of course,” she said, turning to him with a smile. “We promised to explore the world together. I can’t do that without you, Darling.”
Night fell. After dinner, they cleaned up together. Hiro accidentally splashed water while washing dishes, which led to Zero Two chasing him around, laughing. Eventually, they collapsed onto the sofa, watching a rerun on TV, slowly leaning against each other without even noticing.
Before bed, Hiro lay on his back, staring at the ceiling. “I think I’m starting to look forward to school again. I miss the everyday sounds… the light in the classroom.”
“Then let’s count down together.” Zero Two turned toward him, lacing her fingers with his. “When that day comes, I’ll be holding your hand—just like now—and I won’t let go.”
Hiro looked at her and smiled gently. “It’s not the end of a countdown. It’s the beginning of something new.”
The room glowed with warm light, and the breeze fluttered through the curtains. The night, like their hearts, was quiet and steadfast—carrying them, step by step, toward the springtime campus, their old promises, and the future they would greet together each morning.
To be continued…
達人
