“Good morning, Lena," Doctor Patel said, stepping in with a tablet and a smile that didn't feel borrowed. “How was the night?"
Freya sat straighter. “Quieter," she said. “The pain spikes less."
Monica offered a thumbs-up from the corner. “She did her breathing exercises," she reported. “Ten sets. I counted."
Doctor Patel's eyes warmed. “Excellent. We'll review the grafts and the scarring today. Then we'll talk next steps."
Freya nodded. “I'm ready."
“Let me look," Doctor Patel said gently. “May I?"
“Yes."
Patel slipped on gloves. She moved slow, speaking as she worked. “Tissue is healing well at the cheek. Contracture here at the jawline—we'll address that. Under-eye area is tight; we can soften with staged releases. Pigmentation will even out over time with therapy and shielding."
