Ayla
My heart sank. For some reason, ever since yesterday, I had this overwhelming urge to see River—or at least hear his voice.
My eyes drifted to the white flowers on the nightstand. Their soft petals almost whispered to me, like they were sending a silent message that River was out there, cheering me on.
I took a deep breath, trying to calm the pounding in my chest that felt louder than it should. There was something strange—like a connection growing between us, something I wasn’t ready to admit out loud.
My phone buzzed. Unknown number. I hesitated for a second, but my finger moved before my brain caught up. I swiped green.
“Hello?” My voice came out a little raspy.
“Oh, thank God! You picked up right away. It’s me, River. How are you feeling?”
“River…” His name slipped from my
