Third Person

After ending the call, Ryan's expression turned grim.

He rubbed his temples, took a deep breath, and then headed back into the room.

Gabrielle was sitting upright on the bed, one arm hooked up to an IV, while the other casually flipped through a stack of law books. Nina stood silently at her side, keeping her company.

This scene was peaceful—but Ryan's heart was anything but. He forced a smile, pushing the rising tension down, "Gabby, something came up ...