Maliyla's POV

I swear my heart was pounding so hard it felt like it might burst after walking out of the hospital. Every movement seemed to be happening at a snail's pace. My emotions were racing at once: relief, fear, and sadness. I feared what awaited but realized I had to stay strong.

"Always stay close to me," Hector reminded me as we stepped through the hospital's doors.

There was a tense atmosphere as we walked toward the car. Upon reaching the vehicle, Hector opened the door and motioned ...