“How come…?” Joy’s whisper barely reached me.
I couldn’t answer.
Dora glided into the room like she owned the air itself—elegant, untouchable, radiant.
My chest squeezed tight. I swallowed against the sudden burn in my throat.
“Oh… Dora is here too,” the head nurse announced.
Heads swiveled. Murmurs rose like smoke.
I felt every comparison slice through me: Who wears it better? Who looks more like she belongs?
My stomach knotted.
“It looks more beautiful on you,” Miriam murmured, soft smile meant to soothe.
I didn’t know if she believed it. I didn’t know if I did.
My eyes hunted for him—Mr. Vincent.
How was he looking at her?
Relief flooded me, sharp and sweet.
He wasn’t looking at her at all.
His gaze stayed locked on his phone, voice low as he spoke to Dr. Felix.
“You and
