Charlotte's hotel stood just a stone's throw from the hospital.
After dinner, Ethan drove her there in silence, the hum of the engine the only sound in their tense silence. His knuckles stayed pale against the steering wheel, his gaze fixed ahead.
When they reached the hotel, he wordlessly retrieved her luggage from the trunk.
"Thanks," she murmured, taking the handle with a smile that didn't reach her eyes.
"When do you leave?" His voice was carefully neutral.
"Likely in a few days." She shrugged. "Depends on Logan's recovery."
Ethan nodded. "Henry can assist if you need anything."
"Understood." Her fingers tightened around the suitcase. "I'll head in now."
He watched her walk away—past the automatic doors, past the potted palms—until the elevator swallowed her whole. Only then di
