When Mr. Hartley entered the hospital ward, he saw Alina sitting and staring outside the window. The soft morning light fell on her face, making her look pale. Her eyes were fixed on the sky outside, lost in thoughts she couldn’t put into words.

"Alina?" he called softly as he walked in, his tone careful, like he was afraid to startle her.

She turned slightly to him, watching as he walked closer and sat beside her on the bed.

"Is… is something wrong?" he asked, trying to smile. ...