As the bandages around Charles's stomach and chest came into view, Augustine gasped in shock, holding his breath for a full minute.
He hadn't expected Charles to be this badly injured.
Deep down, he had intended to tease and seduce Charles, but now, seeing the extent of his wounds, guilt gnawed at him instead.
Augustine felt devastated, confused, and angry at himself. "I… I didn't mean to," he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper.
Slowly, he lifted his right hand, hesitating before gently placing it over Charles's bandaged chest.
His fingers trembled as he swallowed hard. "Does it hurt?" he mumbled, his voice laced with guilt.
Charles smirked, nodding slightly. "It hurts just a little," he admitted sincerely.
Then, tilting his head, he added, "By the way, can I see your bandage beneath your hospital gown?"
Augustine nervously gulped, his fingers trembling slightly as he grasped the hem of his hospital gown and slowly lifted it.
