Elena was already standing at the foot of the hospital bed when Reginald Whitmore saw the visitor.
For a moment, he blinked in confusion—then his face twisted into pure outrage.
“You,” he growled, voice gravelly and sharp. “What is she doing here?”
The nurse beside him startled so hard she nearly dropped the chart in her hands. “Mr. Whitmore, please—your heart—”
Reginald slammed his palm against the mattress. “I SAID WHAT IS SHE DOING IN MY ROOM!”
The heart monitor spiked violently.
Elena flinched but lifted her chin. “Sir, I only came to check on you. You are Julian’s family. I was worried—”
“Worried?” Reginald barked. “You’re a vulture! Get out!”
The nurse rushed forward, hands raised. “Miss, I’m going to have to ask you to leave—”
“No,” Elena snapped, stepping back. “I’m not go
