Jesse paced the hallway outside Aiden’s room, his footsteps echoing sharply against the cold tiles. His brows were drawn tight with worry. Normally, the medication worked within minutes. But now, twelve hours had passed, and the room behind him remained silent.

He paused, ears straining for any sound, then slowly pushed the door open.

Aiden lay motionless on the bed, his breathing soft but steady. The tension in Jesse's shoulders eased slightly.

Then, Aiden's eyes fluttered open.

...