"Hey," Ray attempted to speak, but his voice came out as a hoarse whisper, barely audible. Frustration flared within him as he struggled to find the words, his throat feeling like sandpaper. Just as he was about to call for someone, he felt a gentle touch on his shoulder.
"Easy there," Ryan said, his voice steady and soothing. Without waiting for Ray to respond, he quickly maneuvered around the bed, moving with a practiced urgency that spoke of familiarity with his brother's condition.
"Here, let me help you sit up," Ryan said, his tone firm yet gentle. He wrapped an arm around Ray's shoulders, carefully helping him into a sitting position. As soon as Ray's back made contact with the headboard, a jolt of pain shot through him, as if his spine were breaking under the pressure.
