Anna's POV:

Alexander drops me back at the hospital without a word.

The surgery went well. Mom's recovering. I sit with her for an hour. Promise to visit tomorrow.

Dad has already left.

I take the bus home. Stare out the window. Watch the city blur past.

'He's avoiding me. After yesterday—after everything—he's avoiding me.'

The thought claws at my insides.

Morning light wakes me. I'm still alone.

Downstairs, Mia's ...