The Next day

Jaden leaned against the doorframe of the guest room, arms crossed loosely over his chest despite the fresh bandages wrapping his shoulder. Inside, Rose slept peacefully under crisp white sheets, IV line dripping steadily, monitors beeping in soft rhythm. The bullet had been removed cleanly; Dr. Patel had said she’d make a full recovery with rest and physical therapy. No nerve damage. No permanent harm.

The guilt still sat heavy in Jaden’s gut, he’d dragged an innocent stranger into this nightmare but seeing her breathe steady and even eased something inside him.

He turned, only to find Genesis standing a few feet away in the hallway, a...