Emily walked into the hospital room, her eyes scanning the area until they landed on Lucas. He was sitting up in bed, staring into space, his expression blank. Emily felt a twinge of pity for him. He looked so lost, so vulnerable. But she quickly pushed those feelings aside. This was her chance to hatch her plan.

"Lucas," she said softly, approaching his bed.

Lucas looked up at her, his eyes dull and lifeless. "Emily," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

"How are you feeling?" she asked, pulling up a chair and sitting down beside him.

Lucas shrugged. "I don't really know," he said, his eyes still fixed...