ETHAN POV

Emma barely stirred as I carried her through the front doors. Her weight in my arms felt too light. Too fragile. The staff paused mid-step, hands over mouths, eyes wide.

Someone giggled softly.

I shot them a glare cold enough to freeze their lungs. The laughter died.

Alice rushed forward, eyes red. “Sir— is she… is she okay?”

“She will be,” I said, though I wasn’t sure if the words were for Alice or for myself. “Get room ready. And water— warm.”

Alice nodded ...