Erin Walker awakened to a sterile, muted light. Her body felt unsteady—heavy, as though buoyed by fog. Blinking against the brightness, she realized she lay in a hospital bed, her side wrapped in bandages. A rhythmic beep at her shoulder matched the beat in her chest.
“Erin?" A familiar voice quivered. She turned her head and saw Leon Black, pale but alert, standing at her bedside. His eyes were rimmed with exhaustion and relief.
“Leon?" Erin whispered, her throat scratchy. She attempted to sit up, and pain lanced through her ribs. She winced.
“Easy," Leon murmured, easing her back against the pillows. “You're still recovering."
Erin's gaze drifted downward, recalling her decision to donate a segment of her liver. She glanced at the IV line delivering fluids and antibiotics. “What—what
