Teddy POV.
I stepped into Payton’s hospital room that evening, and the sight of her hit me like a freight train. She lay unconscious, fragile under the harsh fluorescent lights, the steady hiss of the oxygen mask the only sound in the quiet space. Tears burned my eyes. This was my fault. All of it. I moved closer, my legs heavy, and gently took her hand. No response. Nothing. I dropped to my knees beside the bed, forehead pressed to the edge of the mattress.
“Payton,” I whispered, voice cracking. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t know it would push you here… I’m sorry for everything, my love. Please get well soon. Stay alive for me. I’m begging you.” I kissed the back of her hand, then rose slowly, wiping the tears from my cheeks. Leaning down, I pressed another soft kiss to her forehead. “Whoever
