Evelyn's POV

I walked beside my father down the hospital corridor. His hand rested lightly on my shoulder. This was oddly gentle for the man I’d always known to be so stern.

He didn’t say much, but his quiet presence said enough. For once, it wasn’t the voice of a parent guiding me but the silent comfort of a father afraid of losing his daughter.

“You should still be resting,” he said quietly. “You’ve had a tough time.”

I gave him a small smile. “I’m fine, Dad. Really.” ...