MAYA

I lay in the hospital bed, feeling weak and drained. Cheryl sat beside me, her face etched with concern. "Hey, sweetie, how are you feeling?" she asked, taking my hand in hers.

I tried to smile, but it felt more like a grimace. "I've been better," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper.

Cheryl nodded sympathetically. "You're going to be okay, Maya. You just need to rest and get your strength back."

I glanced down at the drip in my arm, feeling a slight sting as the medication flowed into my veins. "I guess so," I said, feeling a bit helpless.

Cheryl smiled and squeezed my hand. "I'm...