“Avery!!” Roman called again, his voice thick with emotions he didn’t even try to hide.

Evelyn froze. Forgetting about her phobia for hospitals. This time, she heard it clearly. It wasn’t ‘Evelyn’ slurred. Not ‘Lyn’. It was ‘Avery,’ clear as day. A cold knot formed in her stomach, and her throat tightened.

She gritted her teeth, turned on her heel, and tried to leave before her face betrayed her But Roman’s hand shot out and caught her wrist, holding her tight. “Let go,” she said through gritted teeth. But he didn't budge.

Evelyn turned back sharply, ready to fight him off—until she saw his face. Roman’s eyes were bloodshot. His...