*Early Morning*

Elena’s POV

The sunlight filtered through the blinds, painting stripes across the polished floor of her room.

She sat in the small chair by the window, hands resting on her lap, waiting for the nurse to arrive. The new medication had a routine now, and a rhythm she had begun to anticipate — the footsteps, the jingle of the cart, the familiar hum of quiet concern.

She hadn’t asked for it to be brought so early, and hadn't insisted on the schedule.

Yet, there it was. A small tray of pills, neatly organized, a glass of water beside them. She exhaled, steadying herself, lifting the first capsule carefully....