Elena’s POV

The knock hadn’t even faded when the air in the ward snapped tight.

“Elder Hayes is downstairs.”

I pushed Damien away almost instinctively.

The movement was too sudden. He swayed, one hand slamming against the bed to steady himself. His jaw tightened, eyes darkening as he looked at me—not angry, not confused, just… heavy.

“Let’s go back first,” he said quietly.

For a split second, I hesitated.

Then I nodded.

This wasn’t something I could face alone.

I ...