"It... It was the day Elena returned..."
Mia's voice quivered with unease. "All the documents were in order. She even said she'd follow your instructions for any remaining work."
Ethan gripped his phone so tightly his knuckles turned white. Panic surged through him like a riptide—more crushing than an avalanche. He sprang to his feet, his mind screaming only one thought.
He had to get home immediately. He needed to see Elena.
"Ethan?" Lila's weak voice came from the hospital bed. "Where are you going?"
He didn't hear her, already bolting for the door.
"Don't go!" Lila clung to his wrist with desperate strength. "I'm terrified... Every time I close my eyes, I see you buried in snow. Please stay!"
Normally, he might have softened. Might have stayed to comfort her.
But now? Elena's re
