Alex sat beside the hospital bed, Ethan motionless under layers of sterile white sheets. Machines hummed quietly at his side, tracking the rhythm of his heart and breath. Alex gently held Ethan's hand, eyes locked on his bruised face, filled with regret and quiet apology.
The door swung open.
Ethan's parents rushed in—his mother reaching the bedside first and gasping softly. Seeing her, Alex quickly released Ethan's hand and stood up.
Without a word, she dropped into the chair Alex had been occupying and clung to Ethan's arm as tears welled in her eyes. His father remained behind her, solemn and still.
"What happened?" She whispered.
Alex swallowed. "He got into an accident. The doctor said his injuries aren't too severe, he'll be unconscious for a while, but he's out of danger. They
