After some time of talking, and reassuring everyone that yes, I was fine, a doctor came in.
He explained that I had a severe concussion and some bruising on the side of my head. I would need 3–6 weeks of rest, then I should be back on my feet — which was good to hear.
Some time later, we left the hospital, but I could still see the worry in everyone's eyes. Even in Kushina's eyes — though she denied ever being worried, her red cheeks gave her away. I could see she was embarrassed by her show of emotion earlier at the hospital.
On the other side of the spectrum was Lizz. She had been attached to my side ever since we left, my arm kept hostage between her breasts. I could feel my cheeks turn red, and a small stream of blood dripped from my nose.
I had only one thought: so soft. Her breasts weren't as big as Kushina's, but they were still perfect — in their shape, and in how soft they were.
I've always thought Lizz was cute, in a nerdy kind of way — with her oversized glasses, her cute little nose, and the messy bun she always tied her hair into. Even though we were the same age, give or take a few weeks, she was always just that little bit shorter than me.
And I always teased her about it. It's so cute how she ruffles her nose when she gets embarrassed. I've had such a big crush on her...
But after that day, after I promised her brother I'd look after her, it didn't feel right anymore...
I failed him. I always felt so guilty. I should have stayed — but before I could continue that thought, Mom's voice grabbed my attention.
"We're home, as I crossed the doorway, my shoulders relaxed. An unspoken tension drained from me, and as I walked into the kitchen, I was greeted with a feast worthy of a king. Surprise and joy washed away the somber memories that had clung to me.
"What's this?" I asked.
"It's food, nerd," Kusina's voice came in response, now more relaxed at the return of something familiar.
Mom's voice soon followed. "There's nothing that heals better than good food."
I looked down at Lizz, still holding my arm like it was made of gold. She was staring at the table in a trance, drool slipping from her mouth and down her chin.
Mom spoke up. "You can join us if you like, Lizz."
In the next moment, I saw her head turn so fast I thought it would snap off. She looked at my mom like she had just promised to grant her every wish.
Then, I saw her brain catch up with her body as her cheeks turned red in embarrassment. In a shy voice, she spoke.
"I don't wish to be a bother."
I could only smile at her shy nature as I replied, "There's more than enough food to feed an army. We'll need the help," I said jokingly.
Her cheeks turned an even darker shade of red before she spoke again.
"Th-thank you."