Essel’s Pov
The sound of a door creaking open jolts me, and it is Michael's expression that fills me with apprehension.
Michael approaches with a grave demeanor, his gaze seemingly fixed beyond me. His presence feels different, and his face is inscrutable.
"Is everything alright?" I inquire, rising from my seat in the waiting area.
We remain at the hospital, having spent several hours here; Michael has been with his mother while I have occupied myself with the latest entertainment news from the magazines strewn about.
Michael shakes his head in a negative response, only to follow it with a nod, his body language presenting a confusing contradiction.
"Michael, what is troubling you?"
He takes a deep breath before responding, "We need to talk."
Barely a moment passes before my gaze
