KARA'S POV
The aroma of disinfectant and quietness hung in the atmosphere, yet my purpose wasn’t for the treatment or the compassion. I came here for Leena. Or perhaps… I was here for my own sake.
Positioned at the threshold of her hospital room, I observed her as she slept. Her expression appeared serene now, delicate even, yet I was aware of the turmoil she concealed behind those quivering lashes. I had assisted in its creation. That reality slithered under my skin, cool and piercing.
I once believed that loyalty was linked to survival. Regarding proximity to authority. That’s what made Zack powerful, perilous, impactful. It felt correct to align myself with him. Intelligent, too. Up until that point, it was.
Until I witnessed Leena fall in that room.
Until I understood that we
