The harsh fluorescent lights of the hospital corridor cast long shadows as Emma paced, her nerves frayed to breaking point. Tom stood nearby, his presence both a comfort and a source of tension. The air between them crackled with unspoken words, the weight of recent events pressing down on both of them.
A door opened, and Dr. Patel emerged, his face etched with the weariness of a long night. "Ms. Hartley? Your mother is awake. She's asking for you."
Emma's heart leapt into her throat. She glanced at Tom, who nodded encouragingly. "Go," he said softly. "I'll be right here."
Taking a deep breath, Emma followed Dr. Patel into the room. Diana lay propped up in bed, looking pale but alert. The sight of her mother, fragile yet fighting, brought tears to Emma's eyes.
"Mom," she whispered, rus
