Mia I went downstairs to check on my father. The moment I entered his room and saw him, I could already tell there was an improvement. His complexion was better than before, the unnatural paleness gone, replaced with a healthier tone that made something in my chest loosen slightly. He was still resting, still weak, but he looked… stable. I walked closer quietly, my steps slowing as I reached his bedside. For a moment, I just stood there, watching him breathe, rhythmic and calm. Relief settled into me, but it didn’t stay long enough to fully comfort me. Too many things were still happening at once. I turned slightly when I heard movement behind me and saw my brother watching me. “He’s getting better,” I said softly, offering him a small reassuring smile. He nodded, but I could stil

