With a groan, Hiroshi's eyes fluttered open. The bright light of the room stabbed at his vision, causing him to squint and blink rapidly to adjust. Slowly, his vision cleared and he could make out Riku's face hovering above him with a look of deep concern etched into his features. The pain in Hiroshi's body had dulled to a throbbing ache, but it was clear that he had been through a battle.

"Riku..." Hiroshi croaked, his voice barely audible. "What... what happened?"

Riku's worried expression turned into a relieved smile as he brushed a stray hair from Hiroshi's forehead. "You had a rough time, cop. But you're going to be okay. Just take it easy for now."

Hiroshi attempted to sit up, only to be met with a sharp jolt of pain shooting through his body. He winced, feeling like every inch of him had been bruised and battered. Noticing the pained expression on Hiroshi's face, Riku immediately jumped into action.

"Hold on, stay still," he urged, his hands gently steadying Hiroshi as best as he could. "Your bandages need tending to."

As Riku carefully unwrapped the old bandages, Hiroshi's mind raced with thoughts. Despite Riku's help, he couldn't shake the unease he felt around him. Riku's notorious reputation as a troublemaker preceded him, and Hiroshi couldn't help but feel wary of having him loose on the streets.

"Why... why did you help me?" Hiroshi asked weakly, still not fully trusting of Riku's intentions.

Riku's expression shifted, a fleeting moment of vulnerability crossing his features before he quickly shrugged it off with a light laugh. "I'm not as bad as people make me out to be," he said casually, avoiding the deeper question.

Hiroshi raised an eyebrow, curious about what had caused the sudden change in Riku's demeanor, but decided not to press further. He nodded slowly, feeling a warmth spread through his chest. "Thank you, Riku. I owe you my life."

Riku shook his head, a teasing smile playing on his lips. "Don't get too comfortable, kid. I still need to take you to the station for causing chaos in the streets," Hiroshi added, trying to keep his tone stern but failing to hide the gratitude in his eyes.

Riku laughed heartily, the sound filling the room and bringing a sense of relief after the intense situation they had just been through. "Oh, come on, cop! I saved your life twice. You owe me a free pass, at least."

Hiroshi stared at him, amusement and admiration shining in his eyes. "I suppose you're right. But don't think this means you're off the hook."

Riku finished wrapping new bandages around Hiroshi's wound, his hands surprisingly gentle as he worked. He looked at Hiroshi, his expression shadowed with concern. "Do you usually convulse like that?" His voice was soft and filled with genuine worry for his friend's well-being.

Hiroshi hesitated, his mind racing as he debated whether or not to answer such a personal question. But ultimately, he sighed and decided that Riku had a right to know. "No, it was the second time," he replied with a heavy heart.

Riku's eyebrows furrowed in curiosity, his interest now fully piqued. "When was the first time?"

Hiroshi couldn't help but glare at him, wondering why Riku seemed so nonchalant about everything. After a moment of internal struggle, he reluctantly gave in and answered. "This stab wound may be bad, but it's not my first major injury. I've endured worse."

Riku nodded, his eyes filled with newfound admiration and respect for Hiroshi's strength and resilience. "Well, no matter what happens, I'll be by your side. You'll recover from this, I promise." His words were sincere and filled with determination.