The hospital room was calm, almost too calm.

Aria stepped in first. “Hi, Grandma,” she said softly.

Eleanor looked up and smiled. “Aria, my dear.” She opened her arms and hugged her briefly.

“Good day, Mrs. Cross,” Mr. Carter said respectfully as he followed his wife inside.

“You’re welcome,” Eleanor replied, gesturing for them to sit.

They all took their seats. Damian lay asleep on the bed, his face pale, machines humming steadily beside him.

Aria glanced at him, then looked away.

“Aria told us what happened,” Mrs. Carter said quietly. “We were very shocked. We just wanted to know… is he getting better?”

“Yes,” Eleanor answered. “There has been...