NYRA

I pushed the door and slipped quietly into Ria’s ward. The sun wasn’t even fully up yet, but I didn’t care. I had been thinking about her all night.

I came yesterday at midnight and saw her breathing so well. I even smiled to myself when I left because she looked stronger. I told myself she would stand soon. Maybe in a few days. Maybe even surprise us all and walk out of here on her own feet.

But this morning felt different.

I stood by her bed calling her name, waiting for her ...