Chapter 63: Heavy with tension

The room was heavy with tension as Aria sat in her hospital bed, sipping water through a straw. Her features were calm, but her mind raced. She knew the doctor would do as he was told; the fear in his eyes had confirmed that. Still, loose ends worried her, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that someone might betray her.

Valerie entered the room, closing the door softly behind her. She looked flustered, her usual confidence slightly shaken.

"Aria, we need to talk," Valerie said, her voice low.

"What is it?" Aria asked, narrowing her eyes.

Valerie hesitated, glancing at the door as if to...