The ward was quiet in the late afternoon.
Mia slept more deeply now, the tight line between her brows finally eased. Bella sat by the bed, watching her breathe.
Steven stood near the doorway, unsure where he was allowed to exist in this space.
After a long silence, he spoke softly.
“Bella, can we talk alone?"
She didn't look up.
“Five minutes."
They walked to the small garden outside the pediatric wing.
Winter air was sharp. The path lights were gentle, almost too peaceful for the past they carried.
Steven stopped near a bench.
Bella stayed standing.
“I'm sorry," he said.
She waited.
“For the ring. For believing Lisa. For forcing you to kneel. For everything I did that pushed you out of my life."
Bella's voice was calm.
“You weren't sorry then."
“I know."
He swallowed.
“I
