Zara woke up. She blinked slowly, her body still aching but lighter than before. Her gaze shifted, and there, sitting by the bed with a gentle smile, was Bree.
"You are awake," Bree said with relief. "Thank God."
Zara shifted, trying to sit up. Bree was quick to help, sliding a pillow behind her back and easing her against the headboard.
"The doctor just left after checking on you," Bree informed her, settling back into the chair. "He said your vitals are steady, no complications. You just need proper rest, minimal stress, and nutritious food."
She gestured to the side table. "Speaking of which, I brought some chicken broth. It's still warm. You should have it before it gets cold."
Zara nodded faintly, offering a small, distant smile. Her eyes, however, were already scanning the room, searching for Nathaniel. But there was no sign of him.
Her chest tightened.
'Of course,' she thought bitterly. 'He disappeared again. Just like always.'
