"Avery, can you hear me? Avery?"

My head felt as if it just survived an earthquake and it took every ounce of strength in me to focus on who was talking and to reply back.

"Jaxson?" I questioned, my vision slowly becoming clearer.

"Avery," he let out a relieved sigh, "does it hurt really badly anywhere?"

"No," I said, "I feel fine, just a little overwhelmed." I gazed around what I assume to be the nurse's office, "I should go."

I proceed to the edge of the white bed but Jaxson immediately stopped me.

"First of all, you're lying. Second of all, you need to rest. Third, your parents were contacted and they were okay with you being here if it meant you would get better. Fourth, just rest Avery, please."

I didn't even have the strength nor energy to argue. I just climbed back on the bed and throw the thick blanket over me with the assistance of Jaxson by my side.

"What happened?" I croaked out, lying down and facing him.

"You don't remember?" Jaxson asked in alarm.

"I do... just what happened after I blacked out?"

"When I walked into the classroom, you were already unconscious and bleeding." Then he added, "you looked pretty bad."

"Thanks."

He raised an eyebrow.

I couldn't resist the smile that made its way onto my face. Jaxson had that effect.

"But you're beautiful either way. Though I prefer you with no bruises."

I blushed even though I tried not to. He grinned.

"Thanks... I guess."

"Anything, anytime." His grin slowly faded soon and he spoke, "rest now."

"Okay."

I was about to fall into a deep slumber when I felt someone's hand. I assumed it was Jaxson's hand but either way, I flinched at his touch.

It didn't matter who it was.

I believed I was going to be fine, but maybe I wouldn't ever be again.

I thought I was getting better.

Yet I became vulnerable again.

I pulled my hand away even though Jaxson was only trying to comfort me.

I couldn't see Jaxson's face from the way I was positioned, but I could feel the hurt emanating from him.

"I'm sorry," I whispered, my eyes to the ceiling above me. I'm sorry I'm so weak.

"Rest Avery, it's okay. Don't worry, I won't touch you again."

"Thank you Jax, thank you."

Please give me a second chance.

I closed my tired eyelids and tried to fall asleep.

Would it be wrong to hope for a dream instead of a nightmare?