Lucas's voice was gravel when he spoke.
“Do I still look like hell?"
Ella looked up from the breakfast tray. “You look like a man who survived being gutted. So… yes."
He tried to laugh. It came out more like a wheeze. “Good to know I'm not imagining the pain."
“Doctor says you'll be out of bed in a week," she said. “With enough rehab, you'll be climbing stairs again in no time."
Lucas raised an eyebrow. “Still planning that hike?"
“I said Sunrise Peak," she replied. “Not Everest."
She peeled an orange and handed him a slice. “Try chewing slowly this time."
He obeyed, grimacing. “This tastes like wet paper."
“Good. Humility suits you."
Lucas swallowed and looked at her. “I've been meaning to ask… why are you still here?"
Ella sat on the windowsill, arms crossed. “Because I want t
