Chapter 121

"Elena," Mia started, but her friend was already moving toward the door with that determined stride that meant the conversation was over.

"Take care of her," Elena said to Stefan as she brushed past him, her voice carrying a warning that made Mia's chest tighten. "And Stefan? Tell her the truth. All of it."

The door clicked shut behind her, leaving nothing but the steady beep of hospital monitors and the weight of unspoken words hanging in the air.

Stefan stood frozen by the doorway, his broad shoulders rigid with tension.

"How are you feeling?" His voice was barely above a whisper, as if speaking too loudly might...