It Just Won't Die

When I opened my eyes again, the familiar smell of disinfectant stung my nose.

"Ugh…!"

"Max!"

"Max Jaeger!!"

"Captain Jaeger!"

"Captain! Are you awake?!"

As my blurry vision returned, the first thing I saw was an IV bottle hanging from the ceiling—and four women looking down at me.

Hanna, clinging to my right arm and crying.

Seraphina, standing beside the bed with her arms crossed as she let out a sigh of relief.

Erika, glaring at me while wiping her reddened eyes...