The door creaked open. Ava didn’t bother turning. Her head was bowed low, shoulders trembling, fingers locked around her sister’s hand like a lifeline she didn’t want to let go of. The sound of approaching footsteps echoed softly against the sterile hospital floor.

Then, a hand came into view, holding out a can of energy drink. In the other, a small pack of tissues.

She lifted her gaze slowly. Damien stood over her, expression unreadable, like always. No warmth. No pity. Just him towering, untouchable, and yet still there.

She hesitated, her lips parting like she wanted to speak but couldn’t find the right words. In silence, she took the...