—Amira—

I regained consciousness and the first thing I registered was the steady beep of the heart monitor.

And that faint smell of antiseptic.

I opened my eyes and squinted against the rays of sunlight.

My head hurt as I tried to sit up.

“Amira,” a familiar voice broke through the haze.

I forced my eyes open and saw her.

“Mama?” My heart warmed.

She rushed to my side and pulled me into her arms.

“Thank goodness you're awake.” She straightened, a teary smile on her face. ...