I paced outside Violet's hospital room, my mind racing with worst-case scenarios. How could I have let this happen? I should have protected her better. These thoughts were relentless, ramming through my mind. I don't know how long I paced anxiously around the door when a slow creak caused my whole body to jerk. I first saw the white coat, and then Dr. Stanley's full figure emerged through the narrow opening.
He had a small smile on his face, one I suspected would grow into a chuckle, as he said, "You can go in now, Mr. Wolfe. But make sure you don't disturb her; she's still recovering."
"Thanks," I said, and with a small nod, I was left with the sound of his shoes echoing down the hall and the slightly opened door in front of me.
Wiping my clammy hands against my trousers, I gently push
