Laura’s POV
The morning sun barely pierced the blinds, casting thin lines of light across the sterile hospital room. I sat in the chair opposite Elina’s bed, still exhausted from the night’s tension, but unable to leave. Richard hadn’t slept, and his eyes were red-rimmed, dark circles shadowing his face. He hadn’t moved from his spot beside her since dawn, his hand still gently holding hers.
“She’s awake,” I whispered, breaking the silence.
Richard didn’t look up immediately. His jaw was tight, lips pressed together, eyes fixed on Elina. Then, slowly, he nodded. “I see that. Thank God.” His voice was hoarse, raw. “I can’t believe she’s here… she’s really here.”
I watched him carefully. Every subtle movement, every whispered word to Elina, carried the weight of years lost. It wasn’t jus
