Stanley’s POV

The hospital smell never changes. It’s the same sterile blend of antiseptic and dread. I push the door open slowly, Chloe right behind me. Mom’s sitting upright in bed, her face pale but proud, her lips already drawn in that stubborn line I know too well.

“There’s my favorite patient,” I say with a smile, stepping inside.

She scoffs but her eyes soften. “Took you long enough.”

“I brought reinforcements,” I say, nodding toward Chloe, who hurries to Mom’s side and hugs her gently.

“You look better, Mama,” Chloe says warmly.

“Better than being hooked to those beeping machines all day,” Mom replies.

The doctor walks in just...