*Lexie’s POV*

I can feel my heart pounding in my chest as I pace the sterile halls of the hospital, the anxiety twisting knots in my stomach. My mother's condition weighs heavily on me, and I'm desperate for any shred of good news.

A familiar voice calls my name, and I look up to see Noland and Natasha making their way towards me. Relief washes over me at the sight of them, but it's short-lived as I remember why they're here.

"Lexie," Noland says ...