Yuri–POV

I awoke to a pristine white ceiling overhead. As my vision cleared, I saw my father seated nearby, head slouched in light sleep. "You're awake!" Elena's voice came from my right, a note of relief evident in her tone.

"I'll call the doctor," Elena announced. Her voice roused my dad, who, upon seeing me conscious, displayed a clear expression of relief. I attempted to speak, but my voice was raspy and weak. Gratefully, I accepted the glass of water handed to me by my ...