Marek rather felt like he was being led like a child, but although his pride prickled at it somewhat, he was ultimately glad of the assistance. It felt really good to sit down, and he nodded when Melinda spoke again. "Yeah, I've got this," he said, as if she'd asked him whether he could win a difficult duel rather than tuck himself into his bed.
When she'd turned and left the room, he flopped back onto the mattress, kicking off his shoes. Water, water sounded really good. He was physically exhausted, but his mind was still awake; maybe the cool water would wake up his muscles a little. Probably not, since the poison's effect was on his muscles and organs and it was intended to preserve his brain.
Maybe Melinda would be willing to stay up and entertain him for a bit. Or maybe he could read until his brain was exhausted enough to let him sleep.