The next morning, the first rays of dawn filtered through the hospital blinds, casting soft light over the sterile room. Elena stirred, her body aching as she slowly opened her eyes. The familiar scent of her mother’s perfume reached her before she fully registered the figure sitting by her bedside.
“Mom?” she croaked, her voice weak but steady.
Grace looked up from her seat, her eyes filled with relief and worry. “Elena, sweetheart. You’re awake.” She leaned forward, smoothing a strand of hair from Elena’s face. “How are you feeling?”
Elena managed a faint smile. “Tired... but okay.”
“Thank God,” Grace murmured, her voice trembling as she gripped Elena’s hand. “You scared us all last night.”
Elena’s gaze dropped, guilt flickering across her features. “Mom... I need to tell you someth
