Alexander's POV

Dad and Nora left two hours ago. The clinic feels empty without them. Quieter. Heavier.

I sit beside Brittany's bed. Hold her hand. She doesn't pull away this time. But she doesn't squeeze back either.

Her eyes are closed. Her breathing is shallow but steady. Joy says she's stable. For now.

But stable doesn't mean awake. Doesn't mean forgiven. Doesn't mean she wants me here.

I try to reach her through the ...