Chapter 235: Breaking Point

XENOIS

The sound of medical equipment crashing to the floor echoed through Lake's hospital room as I ducked another projectile - this time a plastic water pitcher that Riley had hurled with surprising accuracy given his deteriorated state. Behind me, Lumina pressed herself against the wall, her face a mask of determination despite the obvious pain Riley's rejection was causing her.

"Riley, please," she said, her voice steady despite the chaos. "We just want to talk to you. We want to help."

"Get out!" Riley's voice was raw from days of minimal use, cracking on the words as he reached for another item to throw. His...