*Michael*

The harsh fluorescent lights and pervasive stench of antiseptic formed the unrelenting backdrop as I kept watch over Shelby. Though the private hospital room was expertly designed to promote healing and repose, an oppressive undercurrent of tension lingered no matter how I tried to purge it. How could there be any true peace when the woman I loved lay here sleeping with her head wrapped in bandages and IV tubes hanging from her arms?

I watched the ...