The room was quiet except for the faint hum of the machines surrounding Rita. Anthony sat beside her, his gaze never leaving her face. He had been waiting for her to wake up, to speak with her, to finally tell her everything he'd been holding back. And now that she was awake, his heart pounded in his chest as he searched for the right words.
Rita's hand was still in his, her fingers gently curling around his as if she was afraid he might slip away. She looked so fragile, her face pale but her eyes bright with recognition.
"You're awake…" Anthony whispered, as though he couldn't quite believe it.
Rita nodded slowly, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "I'm awake… and I'm okay," she replied weakly, though she still felt weak, fragile.
Anthony leaned forward, his face serious as h
