Jesse paced the hallway outside Aiden’s room, his footsteps echoing sharply against the cold tiles. His brows were drawn tight with worry. Normally, the medication worked within minutes. But now, twelve hours had passed, and the room behind him remained silent.
He paused, ears straining for any sound, then slowly pushed the door open.
Aiden lay motionless on the bed, his breathing soft but steady. The tension in Jesse's shoulders eased slightly.
Then, Aiden's eyes fluttered open.
He blinked several times, adjusting to the dim light as if trying to make sense of his surroundings. His chest rose and fell in a tired rhythm as he looked up at the ceiling. One hand moved weakly, pressing against his chest as if to confirm he was still alive.
A shaky sigh slipped from his lips.
He sat up c
