Mia's surgery was a success, but her body was still weak.
Morning light filtered into the ward. The monitors beeped softly. Bella sat beside the bed, holding her daughter's hand like it was the only solid thing left in the world.
Mia opened her eyes slowly.
“Mommy…"
“I'm here."
“You didn't leave."
“Not for a second."
Mia swallowed, then asked with a child's blunt courage.
“Is my heart fixed?"
Bella smiled gently.
“It's healing. The doctors did a great job."
Mia seemed to accept that. She blinked, then frowned.
“I'm tired."
“Then your job is to rest."
A nurse stepped in to check vitals.
“She's stable," she said. “The next day is important, but she's doing well."
Bella nodded.
“Thank you."
When the nurse left, Mia studied Bella's face.
“You look tired too."
Bella tried to
