Alex stood by Vanessa's bed, his breath slow and controlled as he stared down at her, looking at her as her body moved along with her breaths.
Despite his efforts to focus on his date with Mira, despite knowing that Vanessa wasn't in any danger—she wouldn't be in so much pain for him to worry about—he just couldn't walk past her.
Clad in a light blue shirt and black pants, topped with a casual black coat, Alex had spent the last few minutes preparing himself for what should have been a relaxing day. But just looking at Vanessa's uncomfortable posture made him unable to walk away just after a glance.
A sigh escaped him as he stepped closer. Slowly, Alex knelt beside the bed, his hands careful as he gently lifted Vanessa in his arms. Her eyes fluttered slightly, and for a moment, he thought she might wake, but she only shifted, a soft breath escaping her lips. She hadn't opened her eyes, nor did she seem to resist.