Silver Creek Hospital bustled with activity that morning, the scent of antiseptic and burnt coffee filling the air as I rushed from one patient to another. Caleb and I crossed paths in the hallways, exchanging quick smiles and fleeting touches that reminded me of the night before—a temporary balm against the anxiety gnawing at me. I tried to focus on my role as Hilda, the efficient nurse, but the phone in my pocket vibrated like a latent threat.
When it finally rang, during a short break in the staff lounge, my heart skipped a beat at the sight of Ethan’s number again. Irritated by the interruption—and by the fear he still provoked—I answered in a furious whisper.
“What do you want now, Ethan? I told you—”
But it wasn’t his voice that replied. It was a female voice I recognized instantl
