Chapter 214

Annabelle

The antiseptic smell of the hospital has become almost comforting after three days. I've memorized the patterns of the ceiling tiles, counted the flowers on the wallpaper border, and learned every squeak in the vinyl chair beside Ashlynn's bed. As I watch her small chest rise and fall in sleep, I can hardly believe we're finally going home today.

"Her fever's been normal for twenty-four hours now," the pediatrician says, flipping through her chart. "The influenza is resolving nicely. Just make sure she stays hydrated and gets plenty of rest."

Nolan nods beside me, his hand unconsciously finding mine between our chairs. We've been doing that a lot these past few days, reaching for each other in moments of fear, relief, exhaustion. It feels natural now, this physical connection.

"Thank you, Dr. Chen," he says, voice rough from lack of sleep. The shadows under his eyes match my own, I'm sure.