chiharuuu22

[chiharuuu22]

There's a flow going on in my head. It goes something like this.

It was almost midnight when the alarm blared. Whumpee woke up with a start and winced in pain. Something was going wrong, but Whumpe was unable to move. His body was weak and full of wounds from defeating a powerful enemy, so he could only lie on his bed. As he tried to get up, Caretaker and Member A entered. Caretaker helped Whumpee, while Member A helped pack up. Caretaker helped Whumpee put on a jacket, socks, and a shawl while explaining that the enemy might have discovered their headquater. The enemy would attack them again sooner or later. The Team Leader decided that they should evacuate the headquater tonight.

Once they were finished, they left the room. Whumpee hobbled along with Caretaker, and Member A said she would get ready in the car. Outside, everything looked chaotic and tense, and all members tried to secure their data and important items before leaving. Whumpee also saw two other injured members being carried away.

Whumpee, Caretaker, Member A, Member B, Member C, and Member D boarded the same car and left immediately for another headquater. The Team Leader divided his members into small groups and sent them in different directions to outwit the enemy. When they had moved away from the base, they all heard the sound of an explosion. Yes, the Team Leader destroyed their headquater to prevent the enemy from detecting them next.

Member D drove the car quickly and occasionally changed his route to make a run for it. The way he drove the car meant that everyone had to hold on to their places. Meanwhile, the Team Leader's voice kept coming over the radio where he instructed various things.

Whumpee sat leaning against Caretaker. He really didn't feel okay. His whole body ached, his head was dizzy, and his stomach was queasy. Unfortunately, they could not stop to create as much distance as possible. Everyone in the car felt sorry, but they had to keep going tonight. Whumpee understood and he didn't protest, but because of his condition, Whumpee felt useless.

Whumpee vomited many times. Cold sweat was pouring down his face, tears were flowing, his breathing was labored, and his body was shaking. Caretaker tried to calm Whumpee down. Whumpee groaned loudly when their car hit a speed bump, then he vomited again. Whumpee felt like he had to vomit to get rid of his nausea. However, there was nothing else he could vomit.

They traveled for hours and during that time Whumpee felt like he was going to die. Caretaker tried to make Whumpee feel better by helping him drink or slipping pieces of chocolate in his mouth to give him some energy. Whumpee was just trying to keep him from losing his consciousness. At least, during this escape.

When they finally reached the other headquater, Whumpee really couldn't feel himself anymore. Whumpee lost his consciousness. Whumpee did not know whether his two comrades were the same as him or not. Whumpee was just grateful that they made it and fainted when Member D finally entered the secret garage.

Whumpee woke up on a bed in a dimly lit room. He saw Caretaker adjusting his IV and walked over to him. Caretaker said Whumpee had been unconscious for most of the day. Caretaker also said they were in a hidden headquater in Region X. Caretaker explained that everyone was safe except Whumpee and the other two who were both injured, all of whom fainted after arriving.

This new place was not as comfortable as the previous base, but at least Whumpee could rest to recover. Caretaker smiled warmly soothingly, her hand stroking the back of Whumpee's hand gently before asking if he wanted to eat a little.

[chiharuuu22]

One of the things Whumpee did after getting better was snacking.

Whumpee is not yet strong enough to chew solid food, and one of the things Caretaker does is give Whumpee some snacks to help him learn to chew.

Starting with soft fruits such as bananas and avocados. Occasionally give Whumpee muesli bar or granola bars that are not hard. Not only that, chocolate bars are also one of the snacks given. Delicious snacks that have been nutritionally calculated by the doctor. Whumpee always brought that snack in his jacket or in a small bag in his wheelchair to stock up.

As you can imagine, Whumpee, Caretaker, and other team members are having an important conversation. The tension of the conversation seemed like it wouldn't go down, where everyone was talking fiercely.

At that point, Whumpee will pull out a treat from his pocket. Because his hands still have difficulty opening the snack wrappers, Whumpee will make a loud noise that makes everyone quiet. Then after that, Caretaker will smile faintly and open the package of the snack for Whumpee and let Whumpee enjoy his food slowly.

Seeing Whumpee chewing slowly on his muesli bar or chocolate often makes the tension of the conversation subside, for some reason.

[chiharuuu22]

After experiencing so much tension, it seemed like Caretaker was still not allowed to breathe a sigh of relief. Seeing Whumpee thrash around in a semi-conscious state was even more painful than seeing Whumpee not moving at all.

Several times a day, Whumpee will moan in pain (or perhaps anger), cry, or try to remove the medical equipment on his body. Sometimes, Whumpee just stared blankly at the roof.

Caretaker always tries to be near Whumpee, holding Whumpee's thin hands tied to the bed, stroking his head gently and carefully, and speaking in a soothing tone.

Until one day, Whumpee looked at Caretaker and called her in a shaky and stuttering voice. At that moment, Caretaker knew that Whumpee was one step towards recovery.

[chiharuuu22]

Caretaker could never remember the last time Whumpee had a good night's sleep. Every time he sleeps, Whumpee will easily woke up and could still clearly hear the noise around him. His face was always wrinkled, as if he were thinking hard about his dreams. 

Until finally, the scene Caretaker wanted appeared.

Whumpee was sleeping soundly and lying quietly; his breathing was even, and his face looked peaceful.

Whumpee fell asleep soundly after all the problems with Whumper were over, as if he had no more burdens to bear. Even though Caretaker knows that Whumpee's calm is partly due to the painkillers the doctor gave him, she doesn't make it a problem.

Caretaker is grateful that Whumpee can finally rest without interruption.

[chiharuuu22]

Whumpee, after being rescued, is nothing but a baby trapped in an adult body, and Caretaker doesn't know what trauma was caused by Whumper until Whumpee finally lost his mind as an adult human.

Whumpee is scared and shaking when he sees the people around him, even though they used to be a team. He screamed in fear in the middle of the night because of a nightmare that even Whumpee didn't understand why it was there. Whumpee has difficulty speaking, moving freely due to the wounds on his body, and remembering the memories he has gone through. Whumpee, who whines and cries if Caretaker is not beside him.

Caretaker understands that Whumpee needs time to recover as before. The question is, how long will Whumpee need to recover physically, especially his metal, while out there Whumper is still roaming around and Whumpee is someone who knows the key to defeating Whumper?

Should Caretaker force Whumpee back in a, you know, violent way? Or wait for Whumpee to return as time passes?

[chiharuuu22]

Still wearing pajamas and warmed only by a cardigan, socks, and a blanket around his thighs, Whumpee sat in an armchair on the terrace and was propped up by pillows on either side. Beside him, Caretaker sat with him, accompanying him in a sweater and long skirt. The air still felt cold, even though it was already 9 a.m. Maybe the influence of early autumn.

Besides the two, there was a round table with two bowls of potato soup with thin slices of crispy beef and two glasses of water. Whumpee's favorite soup he started eating today after being able to only eat watery soup for a while.

Whumpee sat facing directly towards the lake, with the forest several tens of meters from the cabin where they were. His gaze was calm and peaceful, as if he no longer had any burdens to carry. Occasionally, Whumpee receives a bite of his soup from Caretaker who patiently helps him eat.

"Want to go there?" Caretaker offered after wiping Whumpee's mouth. "We can go to the lake this afternoon when it's warmer, if you want."

Caretaker returned to feeding Whumpee, saying, "It's not good to stay inside all the time. You need a new atmosphere and a breath of fresh air other than on this terrace."

"I like it in here," Whumpee answered after swallowing his soup. "But I guess it wouldn't be bad to go to the lake there. What's there?"

"Not much, but I thought you'd like it," Caretaker stroked the back of Whumpee's hand. "We can see beautiful views. Now and then, some people come to fish or boat. Freshly caught fish from the lake tastes delicious. There are lots of rabbits there. There are very beautiful flower fields when spring comes. If you're lucky, you can see a deer or a fox peeking shyly from the opposite forest."

"That sounds interesting. I think I'll want to go there later," said Whumpee. "I'm surprised; I never knew you had a cabin here."

"This belonged to my late parents. When I was little, we often came here to vacation and relax from the hustle and bustle of the city," explained Caretaker with a smile, and she returned to feeding soup to Whumpee. "A suitable place for your recovery, right? Quiet, peaceful, comfortable, and you don't have to worry about anything here."

Whumpee smiled and held Caretaker's hand. "Yes, it feels very comfortable. Thank you."

Caretaker smiled and grabbed Whumpee's hand back. "Come on, let's finish your breakfast, take medicine, clean up, then let's get ready to go to the lake!" said Caretaker cheerfully.

"You say that, but you haven't touched your food at all. You just keep feeding me," protested Whumpee. "Your soup is getting cold."

Caretaker laughed, "How about it, huh? I'm full just watching you eat like this."

"What answer is that?" Whumpee protested again but didn't refuse when a spoonful of soup was brought to his mouth. "Eat too, Caretaker."

Caretaker laughed and started feeding herself soup, making Whumpee smile widely. Caretaker feels very grateful for simple moments like this. Seeing Whumpee get healthier and hearing about the good progress of the problems they were having with Whumper. Indeed, it's not every day that they feel calm because now and then the Team Leader or other members come and give them lots of news, or they provide updates on the tasks that the Team Leader has given them. Hey, even though Caretaker and Whumpee are far from the Team, they still carry out their duties well. Except for Whumpee, who still needs a lot of rest.

[chiharuuu22]

Whumpee blinked when he felt someone pulling up the blanket. He saw the Team Leader there, smiling at him.

"Sorry to wake you," he said. "Go back to sleep."

Whumpee seemed to circle the room with his eyes because he felt something was missing.

"Where... where is Caretaker?" he asked in a weak voice.

At first glance, Team Leader looked sad, but his expression immediately changed, "She's a little unwell, so I'll be on guard. When she's well, she'll come here."

Whumpee didn't answer and chose to close his eyes again. Team Leader, who felt a little guilty about lying, could only sit beside the bed in silence.

***

"Whumpee is looking for you," said Team Leader to Caretaker who was sitting alone in the dark hospital lobby, handing her bottled tea.

Caretaker did not answer. Her hand accepted the offered drink. Her eyes looked puffy, as if she had been crying for a long time.

Yes, Caretaker just expressed her emotions. The anger, fury, hatred, and disgust she had been holding at Whumper's trial poured out all at once. Had it not been for the Team Leader and other members to be detained, Caretaker would have wanted to kill Whumper right then and there.

How could it not be? It was Whumper who captured Whumpee during their fight, held him hostage for almost a year, subjected him to experiments, and even harassed him. What's more, Whumper records all of it. The recording was also played in court and made many people sick to their stomachs. In fact, the judge also had to pause it several times. Not just Whumpee, but all of Whumper's victims were killed.

Whumpee managed to survive with great difficulty, even taking strong evidence to corner Whumper. Unfortunately, Whumpee also ended up languishing in the hospital and being critical for some time. Victims who survived also had the same condition; some even had mental disorders.

After seeing everything that happened to Whumpee, Caretaker was unable to meet him. Found Whumpee who was still lying weak and still had to be helped with medical equipment, even just to breathe. Caretaker didn't dare imagine what Whumpee was going through.

"Whumpee didn't say anything, but he noticed you were avoiding him," Team Leader sat down next to Caretaker. "He woke up several times and looked like he was looking for you."

"I don't dare go see him. I can't stand what I just saw, let alone Whumpee who experienced it," Caretaker spoke in a trembling voice. "I'll definitely cry if I see him."

Team Leader sighed, "At least he's safe and still has his sanity. I know you two need each other, and now Whumpee really needs you by his side."

Caretaker downed her drink.

"Go meet him; Whumpee will be very happy to see you." Team Leader patted Caretaker's shoulder to encourage her.

Caretaker nodded.

***

Whumpee woke up again when he felt something soft and cold touch his cheek. His eyes widened slightly when he found the Caretaker beside him stroking his cheek with affection.

"The Leader said you weren't feeling well. Are you sick? Are you okay?" Whumpee asked and slowly trying to get out the sound he managed to muster, his hand reaching for Caretaker's face. "Are you crying? Why?"

Caretaker started to feel a pinch in her heart; she wanted to cry again. "I'm okay. Just... just a little tired. Don't worry. I'm feeling better too; that's why I came here. Why? Miss me?"

Whumpee flashed a weak smile and said, "Yeah. Very."

Caretaker chuckled softly and said, "Don't worry. I'll be beside you."

Whumpee actually realized why Caretaker was acting like that. Whumpee knows today is Whumper's court, and he already expects that the indictment and evidence will be shown there.

"I'm sorry," said Whumpee.

"Why apologize? You didn't do anything wrong," Caretaker kissed Whumpee's forehead gently. "Go to sleep. You need it."

Whumpee squeezed Caretaker's hand. Just for that alone, Whumpee felt safe.

[chiharuuu22]

The scene of Whumpee sleeping is one of my favorites.

Maybe Whumpee is in a quiet room with dim lighting to recover. Sleep without moving. Maybe because of fatigue or because of the influence of medication.

Outside the room, the Team Leader, other members, and Caretaker are busy discussing Whumper and the plan they will carry out. Even though they try to be calm, there are still arguments or commotion.

Whumpee who is in the room may wake up occasionally because of the sound, but immediately go back to sleep because he is too weak and tired to move.

It could be that Whumpee won't wake up at all, won't notice Caretaker coming into the room and changing the compress on his forehead or simply putting a warm water bottle on the nightstand, or just sitting and waiting for Whumpee.

(Anything you want to add?)

[chiharuuu22]

The heavy rain that night seemed to emphasize the tense atmosphere in the center of the headquarters. Television channels have continued to broadcast news of Whumper's arrest since yesterday, but the whereabouts of many Whumper members are still unknown.

The Team Leader and remaining team members seemed focused on the news. They discussed several things related to this problem. They also talk about some of their injured members including Whumpee.

In contrast to the atmosphere in the central room of the headquarters, the room where Whumpee was located felt very calm. There was no sound other than the ticking of the clock and the rain on the window. Nearly twenty-four hours had passed since Whumpee had regained consciousness in that room. Because his condition is still weak, it doesn't look like Whumpee will come out for a while.

No, Whumpee is not alone. Caretaker was also there to accompany him. Caretaker sat at the end of the bed with a pile of pillows and Whumpee leaned his body against Caretaker. One of Caretaker's hands was holding Whumpee's hand and the other seemed to be very carefully stroking Whumpee's bandaged head.

There was no conversation whatsoever. They just kept quiet. Every now and then, Whumpee grimaced in pain because of his wounds; it seemed like the painkillers couldn't completely reduce it.

"It's not over yet, huh? After everything we've been through," said Whumpee in a low voice. "You know, I could faintly hear the news that Team Leader and the others were watching."

Caretaker sighed. "At least, Whumper's been caught. The rest, at least, aren't as tough as facing Whumper."

"You know, even if Whumper is captured, the remaining members can still formulate a response." Whumpee frowned and tightened his grip on Caretaker, his head throbbing suddenly.

"That's it. Don't think about it or anything. Your body is still weak after the fight. You need rest to recover," said Caretaker while adjusting Whumpee's blanket. "Want to lie down?"

Whumpee nodded. Caretaker slowly and gently adjusted Whumpee's position and laid him down, pulled the blanket up to Whumpee's chest, and then planted a light kiss on his cheek.

"Don't go, please. Stay with me," Whumpee held Caretaker's hand.

The caretaker smiled and laid her body on her side, facing Whumpee. Caretaker used one hand to hold her head and the other gently patted Whumpee's chest, lulling him gently without touching the wound.

"You'd better sleep again. The more you think, the more energy you use, the longer it will take you to recover."

Whumpee nodded in the affirmative and slowly closed his eyes. At least now, he felt safe next to Caretaker.

[chiharuuu22]

Whumpee is completely different. What happened to him left him with deep trauma.

Maybe Whumpee lost weight, either just a few pounds or even drastically.

Due to the trauma he experienced, Whumpee may lose his ability to speak for some time. He will have difficulty expressing what he is thinking. Whumpee only relies on paper and pen or perhaps simple signs.

Whumpee is definitely scared of some things. It could be a dark room, a loud sound, a crowd of people, or some particular object that will remind him of Whumper.

Over time, Whumpee may lose his basic abilities for himself. Maybe he will have difficulty walking, so he will rely on a wheelchair or a cane, or he will need to be carried. Maybe his hands are unstable and always shaking, making it difficult to grip things. Maybe he has difficulty moving freely and needs help cleaning himself, changing bandages, or even changing clothes.

Whumpee may have difficulty eating solid foods, so during the recovery period he can only eat foods with a soft texture.

Maybe Whumpee doesn't want to be left alone and always wants company, even when he's safe. Not seeing Caretaker around will make him restless and uneasy.

Whumpee's memory may be partially lost, especially his memory of what he experienced. It took time for Whumpee to remember (and he had to), and it wasn't easy. It could be that Whumpee will become uncontrollable with fear because of the scary memories that are running through his head and he doesn't understand.

The sad thing is, maybe Whumpee doesn't remember his teammates and forgets himself. It's possible that he also forgot about the Caretaker or that he knows that the Caretaker is a Caretaker, but doesn't know who the Caretaker is (if you know what I mean).

Certainly, Whumpee's eyes looked empty. He sees, but does not reflect feelings. It was as if he was confused and didn't understand the world around him.

It's possible that Whumpee has become quieter than before. Just talk as needed.

Whumpee's smile also disappeared. Caretaker and the teammates try to return it.

Maybe Whumpee will be more attached to Caretaker like a child who always follows his mother.

Of course, Whumpee will feel comfortable with gentle touches during the recovery period. Hugs, caresses on the back, hair, or cheeks. In fact, holding the hand will make it comfortable.

Nightmares will probably be Whumpee's daily bread for some time. Waking up in the middle of the night screaming or crying—even when asleep during the day—he will suddenly wake up gasping for breath because of his nightmare.

Whumpee may also experience panic attacks. Either he's just scared and sweating a lot, nervous and frozen, short of breath, or even faints.

Whumpee will also feel pain from the wounds he gets. Maybe he also had a high fever because of the wound.

Apart from that, Whumpee also had to undergo a series of medical examinations, physical and mental therapy, and take medication.

Whumpee, who is usually active, will probably spend more time sleeping as if his energy is completely drained.

It's also possible that Whumpee won't leave the house because he's scared and will refuse to go to the doctor for a check-up.

Certainly, Whumpee will be frustrated with his condition, which has turned 180 degrees from before.

Whumpee will probably feel useless because of how weak he is now.

All Whumpee wants is to return to normal as before. As soon as possible.

Anything you want to add?

[chiharuuu22]

The scene where Whumpee wakes up in bed after everything he's been through is also one of my favorite scenes. Maybe not in a hospital, but in a small, comfortable, and quiet home for recovery.

Whumpee will wake up to see an unfamiliar ceiling, confused about his location, and not remembering how long he slept (or perhaps was unconscious). Wake up in a comfortable bed with soft pillows and warm blankets. Maybe there is a bolster on the side to keep him from falling. Whumpee's body had been cleaned and his wounds had been treated and he was even dressed in soft pajamas.

His whole body must have felt sore; perhaps his head was heavy, and his mind was blurry. Even though he wanted to get up, Whumpee actually had difficulty moving.

Caretaker will come in not long after and immediately rush to stop Whumpee from waking up. Calm him down and patiently explain the situation that has occurred. Caretaker will say what ultimately happened to Whumper, Whumpee's condition, where he is now, and how long he has been lying there. Whumpee tried to understand, even though he was still confused.

Then, the Caretaker will feed Whumpee broth or soup and help him take medicine. Caretaker will also probably replace Whumpee's pajamas with new ones.

While changing into his pajamas, Whumpee could see that his body was covered in wounds, bandages wrapped around everywhere, bruises, and he could begin to smell the antiseptic smell from his body. Caretaker says don't think about it; Whumpee will be fine and recover soon.

After that, maybe Caretaker will lay Whumpee down again. Accompany him while stroking his head and holding his hand, trying to provide comfort. Whumpee was lulled and went back to sleep peacefully.

(Anything you want to add?)

[chiharuuu22]

Home

Part 1: I Want to Go Home

Part 2: Take Me Home

Part 3: Welcome Home!

Part 4: I'm Home

PART 4: I'M HOME

As time went by, the health of Whumpee and the three other team members also gradually improved.

Whumpee is starting to be able to walk with a cane; he is taking less medication; and he is now starting to eat solid food. Whumpee still has check-ups and physical and mental therapy, but he's coming through just fine.

Even so, nightmares about Whumper still often haunt him. Wakes him up in the middle of the night and sometimes makes it difficult for him to breathe. At such a time, Caretaker would definitely come to his side and calm him down.

Honestly, Whumpee is grateful for Caretaker who is always by his side.

Whumpee likes to see Caretaker's back who is busy cooking in the kitchen from where he sits. Whumpee enjoys Caretaker's soft caresses. Whumpee always looks forward to Caretaker's voice calling his name. Whumpee likes everything about Caretaker.

Like this morning, after waking up again from a nightmare last night, Caretaker slept with him in the same bed. Whumpee wakes up in Caretaker's arms and feels safe there. Caretaker woke up not long after, smiled and said good morning.

"You slept well, didn't you? Didn't you secretly wake up while I was sleeping?" Caretaker asked while stroking Whumpee's cheek.

Whumpee shook his head. "I sleep comfortably because you are beside me."

"Thank goodness then. I'm glad to hear that," Caretaker chuckled. "You know, I'm really grateful that you can finally come home."

"I've been home a long time, Caretaker," Whumpee answered.

"Ah, that's right. It's been almost a month since you were discharged from the hospital," said Caretaker.

"No," Whumpee said, shaking his head. "Not that."

Caretaker looked confused.

"I'm home. Since I've been with you, I've been home."

Caretaker was shocked; a single tear hung from the corner of her eyes. She felt moved and happy.

Caretaker hugged Whumpee tightly, whispering the same sentence when Whumpee came home from the hospital: "Welcome home, Whumpee."

Whumpee smiled and tightened the hug. "Yeah. I'm home."

END

[chiharuuu22]

Home

Part 1: I Want to Go Home

Part 2: Take Me Home

Part 3: Welcome Home!

Part 4: I'm Home

PART 3: WELCOME HOME!

The Team Leader gave Whumpee and three other members a special task, namely to rest until they recovered. This task actually sounds funny because up to now, Whumpee and the other three members are not allowed to know the progress of their case with Whumper.

Whumpee didn't think too much about it; he believed the Team Leader and Caretaker who said Whumper wouldn't be able to bother them anymore. After all, they are always honest.

It took time for Whumpee's condition to improve. Even though it's slow, at least Whumpee is showing improvement day by day. Of course, this made Whumpee stay in the hospital longer than the other three members.

Until finally, Whumpee was released from the hospital today.

Caretaker hummed happily as she brushed the hair of Whumpee who was sitting on the edge of the bed. Caretaker even jumped up and down a little when she took the moisturizing cream from her makeup pouch which she then rubbed onto Whumpee's face. Whumpee was happy to see Caretaker happy, so he just let Caretaker do it.

"Okay, everything is in the bag. Just put on a jacket, then we'll go home!" Caretaker shouted, putting on Whumpee's thick jacket.

Whumpee smiled and nodded. Finally, after so long, he could return home too. He missed the house he had left for a long time.

"Well, hold on to me," Caretaker said. Whumpee put his arm around Caretaker's neck and Caretaker carefully carried him into the wheelchair.

Just as Caretaker draped the blanket over Whumpee's thigh, the doctor treating Whumpee came into the ward. "Oh, are you ready? Okay, I'll take you to the lobby. Let me bring your bags."

"Thank you very much, doctor!" said Caretaker while bowing her body.

They walked towards the lobby and feeling happy. Three other team members had already gone home a few days ago and are now recovering at home. Team Leader and the remaining team members are now continuing their inspection regarding Whumper. So, currently the only person accompanying Whumpee is Caretaker, definitely and always.

After completing some paperwork for leaving the hospital and saying goodbye to several nurses who treated Whumpee, Caretaker pushed Whumpee's wheelchair towards the exit. The winter wind greeted Whumpee's body. It was cold, but Whumpee enjoyed it.

"You are okay?" Caretaker asked worriedly.

"Yeah, I'm fine. Just a little cold."

The caretaker sighed and turned to the doctor. "Doctor, I don't know how much I can repay you. Thank you so much for all the care you gave Whumpee and the others."

"Thank you, Doctor. Because of you, I can still live today," said Whumpee while trying to bow.

The doctor smiled and said, "Raise your heads; there's no need to do that. That's my job. Besides, you all always help me. I also owe you a debt."

They smiled at each other.

"Okay, come back next week for a check-up at the same time as the other three team members. I'll arrange the time. Don't miss medication and don't push yourself, understand?"

"Okay, we understand, Doctor," said the Caretaker.

Not long after, the taxi that Caretaker ordered arrived. With the Doctor's help, they load Whumpee and his luggage into a taxi. After bowing again and saying goodbye, Caretaker got into the taxi.

On the way, Whumpee is seen enjoying the winter view from the window. Whumpee leaned against Caretaker's body. Just as Whumpee looked happy, Caretaker also felt happy and grateful that Whumpee could be released from the hospital.

Caretaker's memory flashed back to some time ago, as if everything were like a dream. It's been a long nightmare and Caretaker always hopes to wake up.

"Caretaker, are you crying?" Whumpee asked his hand wiping the tears that fell down the Caretaker's cheeks.

"Ah? What? Oh, no. Sorry, I just slipped," Caretaker lied.

"You know, you're not very good at lying," said Whumpee. "Tell me, what's wrong with you?"

Caretaker smiled and shook her head. "No. Really. I'm fine. I actually feel very happy now because you can finally come back."

Whumpee smiled, drawing himself closer to Caretaker. "I'm also happy to be coming home with you."

A moment of silence.

"Can I go to the graves of Members A and B?" Whumpee asked suddenly.

"Yes, but not now. It's still too cold outside and you only got out of the hospital today," Caretaker answered. "Don't worry, we all planned to go there with the four of you. But we are still waiting for the right time. You know, Member C's condition is in serious shock, right? We don't want to evoke bad memories for now. Your recovery is our main priority right now."

Whumpee just nodded and didn't argue anything. After all, he was still not ready for now.

Whumpee was sure he had fallen asleep because, when he opened his eyes, they had arrived.

No, that's not their headquarters, but the Caretaker's house. A simple house that Whumpee used to frequent before they had to mess with Whumper.

Whumpee threw a confused look at Caretaker who returned it with a smile.

"You will stay with me here temporarily. Team Leader also suggested it. It's too noisy at headquarters to recover. The other three members were also given different locations. A comfortable place to recuperate."

The taxi driver kindly helped carry the luggage to the terrace. Caretaker opened the door and pushed Whumpee's wheelchair in. Whumpee's familiar and longed-for home.

Caretaker smiled, kissed Whumpee on the cheek, and whispered, "Welcome home, Whumpee."

[chiharuuu22]

Home

Part 1: I Want to Go Home

Part 2: Take Me Home

Part 3: Welcome Home!

Part 4: I'm Home

PART 2: TAKE ME HOME

If you asked when Caretaker's world felt like it was collapsing, Caretaker would answer: now.

Caretaker can no longer stand seeing Whumpee's critical condition. Whumpee has been faithful to his sleep for days. Several times, he collapsed and doctors almost lost him. His condition is now improving, but Whumpee doesn't want to wake up yet.

Before the fight with Whumper, Whumpee disappeared and was a prisoner for several months. Not only Whumpee, but five other team members were also prisoners. They were severely tortured. Two of them eventually died. Whumpee was one of those who managed to survive and fight Whumper at the end. Whumpee manages to win, but ends up in the ICU.

Whumper and his minions are, of course, captured by the authorities. Caretaker's anger exploded when she heard Whumper's speechless confession about what he did to Whumpee and the others. Caretaker could have killed Whumper right away if Team Leader hadn't restrained her.

Caretaker is almost crazy. No, she felt crazy.

The team members who died were given a proper burial and team members who also survived Whumper like Whumpee are still receiving treatment. Caretaker, Team Leader, and the remaining members take turns looking after them all.

"Whumpee, come on, get up. You said you wanted to go home? Let's go home; you've been out of the house for too long," said Caretaker while gently stroking Whumpee's cheek.

Every day, Caretaker will faithfully sit by Whumpee's bed. She monologues in the hope that Whumpee hears her. She is praying that Whumpee makes progress, no matter how small it may be. Although, until now, Whumpee has not shown any sign that he heard Caretaker.

Caretaker started to shed tears again and cried, laying her head down on the bed near Whumpee's shoulder. Her hand stroked Whumpee's face with longing. Without realizing it, Caretaker fell asleep.

Caretaker didn't know how much time passed while she was sleeping, but she felt something gently stroking her hair. Caretaker felt comfortable and wanted to continue sleeping, but suddenly she jolted and opened her eyes. Caretaker clearly saw a thin hand with an IV perched on her head. Caretaker's chest heaved and tears fell again. Whumpee was there, in his position, with his eyes open and breathing heavily. Their eyes met and Whumpee shed a tear.   What happened next was quite fast; where Caretaker called a doctor and nurse as soon as possible to check Whumpee's condition. Doctors said Whumpee was still weak, but his condition was improving. A lot of tests had to be run to be sure, but at least Whumpee was awake now. Apart from that, Whumpee still has to be monitored for some time, so he can't be released from the ICU yet.

"Thank God, you're finally awake, Whumpee." Caretaker squeezed Whumpee's hand. "You really scared me, you know? You haven't woken up in almost two weeks."

Whumpee blinked repeatedly. He let out a groan between the tubes entering his throat, as if trying to communicate.

"Shhh shhh. Don't try to talk yet. I know you're uncomfortable, but you have to let it be," said Caretaker gently while stroking Whumpee's cheek.

Whumpee squeezed Caretaker's hand with all the strength he managed to muster. Staring at Caretaker blankly as if trying to convey something. Caretaker didn't need much time to understand what Whumpee wanted.

"Yeah, I understand. You want me to take you home, right?"

Whumpee blinked.

Caretaker laughed, "Sure. I'll definitely take you home. But you have to get better first, okay?"

Whumpee blinked again and tried to smile. Right now, he really wanted to say one sentence containing his hope.

Take me home.

[chiharuuu22]

Home

Part 1: I Want to Go Home

Part 2: Take Me Home

Part 3: Welcome Home!

Part 4: I'm Home

PART 1: I WANT TO GO HOME

"Don't get hurt again, Whumpee. Go home immediately; I'm always waiting for you."

The sentence that echoed in Whumpee's head about his last conversation with Caretaker. He walked unsteadily until he finally fell down. It didn't take long until the white snow finally turned red because of the blood that continued to flow from the wound.

Whumper turned out to be hard to beat and he almost lost. Many of his friends had become victims and he didn't want Caretaker to also become a victim of Whumper too. Unfortunately, his eventual battle with Whumper left him drained.

Caretaker is waiting for him now. Caretaker would be angry if Whumpee didn't keep his promise. Whumpee wanted to move; he wanted to walk again, but his body wouldn't listen to his commands.

Whumpee's consciousness drifted further away when he began to hear a faint voice calling him. The familiar voice he always wanted to hear.

"WHUMPEE!"

Caretaker's scream echoed and forced Whumpee to open his eyes. He felt he was in the Caretaker's arms; even though his vision was blurry, he could recognize the Caretaker who was crying.

"Why are you here? I already asked you to come back," said Caretaker in a trembling voice. "You're bleeding, Whumpee."

"Sorry, I was going to go straight back. But apparently, my energy has run out and I feel very tired," answered Whumpee while trying to wipe Caretaker's tears then chuckled. "Sorry, I made your face dirty."

"I'll definitely take you home, Whumpee. Let's rest at home. In front of the fireplace while drinking your favorite hot chocolate," Caretaker tightened her arms and sobbed even more. She panicked because the Team Leader and the medical team had not yet reached their location. "Don't go anywhere, Whumpee. Stay with me. We're going home; we'll definitely be home."

Whumpee coughed and tears started to roll down his cheeks again. "I want to go home, Caretaker. I'm tired."

"Yeah. Yeah. We're definitely going home. Hang in there, Whumpee. We're going home, okay?"

He really couldn't maintain his consciousness anymore. He was really tired. With the last of his strength, Whumpee smiled and let darkness cloud his vision.

[chiharuuu22]

"Caretaker, can you come to the meeting room? We have to hurry, oh," Team Leader immediately stopped his sentence when he saw Caretaker's finger pressed to her lips.

Team Leader looked at Caretaker who was sitting on the sofa in the lounge room and Whumpee who was fast asleep on her shoulder. A thick blanket appeared to cover their feet.

"Finally, he fell asleep," said the Team Leader.

Caretaker nodded and turned off the television. It seemed they had just watched a holiday movie that was showing. "Not long ago. Suddenly, he fell asleep. Should we wake him up? But I don't want to do that."

Team Leader sighed, "Let him rest. He's still exhausted after everything he's been through. Team A and B members are also still resting. Let's just discuss with those who are there."

Caretaker nodded. "I'll catch up. I'll make a note so Whumpee doesn't panic when he wakes up."

Team Leader agreed. Whumpee had been sticking close to Caretaker lately and he understood that. The Team Leader stepped out of the room and headed for the meeting room.

After the Team Leader came out, Caretaker slowly moved Whumpee's head and laid it on the sofa. Caretaker positions Whumpee's body so that he feels comfortable. Caretaker then gently covered Whumpee and left a post-it note containing him in the meeting room.

After stroking Whumpee's hair for a few minutes, Caretaker hurried away before turning around when she heard a voice.

"Where are you going?"

Caretaker hurriedly approached Whumpee who had woken up from his sleep. "I'm just going to the meeting room. There's a little discussion. You go back to sleep."

Caretaker held Whumpee's hand and rubbed it gently.

"I'm coming with you," said Whumpee again.

Caretaker shook her head and said, "No. Sorry, you need to rest. I won't be long, okay? As soon as you wake up, I'll be by your side again."

Whumpee looked doubtful.

Caretaker smiled and said, "You deserve it, Whumpee. Team A and B members are also still resting after what the three of you experienced. Team Leader also suggested so."

Whumpee nodded.

"Okay. Do you want to continue sleeping here or move to the bedroom?"

"Bedroom."

Caretaker slowly carried Whumpee back to his bedroom. Lay Whumpee gently on the bed, cover him, and make sure the air temperature is right so Whumpee doesn't get cold.

"Hurry back," Whumpee said, his eyes drifting back to sleep as Caretaker rubbed his head.

"Definitely. Sleep well," Caretaker kissed Whumpee's forehead.

Whumpee smiled and yawned before finally closing his eyes. Caretaker breathed a sigh of relief; at least Whumpee was getting some rest. Then she slowly left the bedroom and headed for the meeting room. There's a lot to cover.

[chiharuuu22]

I always liked the classic scene about Whumpee waking up in the hospital bed after being unconscious for a long time.

Whumpee must be confused about his current location and frightened by all the medical equipment attached to his body. Of course, Whumpee will struggle and try to remove it, whether it's the electrodes on his chest or the tube in his mouth. At least the ones that are easy for him to reach.

Then, Caretaker will hold Whumpee's hand and try to talk to him. Reassure him until Whumpee calms down and realizes that he is safe and understands that all the medical equipment that makes him uncomfortable is what he needs for now.

(Ah, I can get excited reading it. Is there anything you want to add?)