Lucia’s POV
Hospitals always smelled the same: bleach, sadness, and something too clean to feel normal. I hated it.
The white walls felt like they were closing in as I rushed past the nurses’ station, Rico just a few steps behind me.
A nurse with tired eyes stopped me at the door to my father’s room. “You’re his daughter?”
I nodded quickly, my heart stuck somewhere between my throat and stomach.
“He was found unconscious on his porch,” she said. “We believe he fell down a short flight of stairs. The damage is minor—bruised ribs, slight concussion. He’s lucky. A little more force and—” she stopped herself. “He’s awake now. Confused, but awake.”
My fingers tightened around the edge of my coat. “Thank you.”
She smiled and stepped aside.
I walked into the room.
My father looked smalle
