I glanced at the screen, it was Mom.

My heart lurched. I answered immediately, pressing the phone tight to my ear.

“Mom?”

“Angie.” Her voice cracked, but there was something in it like some relief, trembling and raw. “He’s stabilizing. Your father… the antidote worked. His heartbeat’s stronger. Dr. Liana just moved him to a private room for better monitoring and examination.”

I felt my knees go weak. The cup in my other hand wobbled, tea sloshing dangerously close to the rim.

“He’s okay?” I whispered, barely able to form the words. “He’s really okay?”

“Yes, sweetheart. He’s okay. He’s still unconscious, but his vitals are improving every minute. Dr....