The crisp morning air slipped through the hospital curtains, bathing Evalina’s pale face in soft light. The gentle beeping of the heart monitor echoed steadily in the quiet room, syncing with her now calmer breathing.

Her eyelids fluttered before slowly opening. The light made her blink as she tried to make sense of her surroundings. The sterile smell, the machines... she was still in the hospital.

Evalina let out a weak groan as she tried to sit up, her body heavy and frail. Her hand—still connected to the IV—moved instinctively to her abdomen. She touched her belly gently, then froze.

Empty.

Her stomach felt... empty.

Panic gripped her chest. Her...