*ADELINE*
The fluorescent lights buzzed overhead as I sat on the edge of the hospital bed, silently fuming into the stark white sheets. I had spent a restless night in this sterile cocoon, sedated enough to forget the pain but still acutely aware of my own chaotic thoughts. The doctor had finally deemed me stable, the swelling on my face thankfully receding, but the allergy was lingering like an unwelcome guest. Just when I thought I could find solace in the mundane rhythm of my breathing, my world tilted again.
Vincenzo had been a constant through it all, not even bothering to change his clothes from yesterday's commotion. Clad in the same slightly rumpled suit, he looked worn down yet steadfast, like a knight prepared for battle with no armor but his unwavering presence. And there was
