Aloe's POV
The commotion in the hallway started around three in the afternoon. Raised voices, hurried footsteps, the sound of doors opening and closing with unusual frequency.
I'd been dozing fitfully, the sedatives still making my thoughts feel wrapped in cotton, when the noise pulled me back to full consciousness.
Dr. Chen appeared in my doorway, his usually composed face tight with stress.
"Mrs. Savage, there are some... officials here. State medical board. They're conducting a routine inspection of the facility."
Routine. Nothing about this felt routine. His hands were shaking slightly as he checked my IV, his movements jerky and uncertain.
"They may want to speak with you," he continued, not meeting my eyes. "About your care here. It's standard procedure."
My heart began to ra
