Alex carefully carried Alisha in his arms, following Maya out of the hospital room. He felt a rush of contentment having her so close, her scent and the rhythmic beat of her heart soothing him despite the tense situation.

Maya led them down the hallway, her posture stiff with concern. "Alex, I know you care about her, but you have to give her space. She needs to figure things out on her own."

"I know, Maya," Alex replied earnestly. "I just want to make sure she's okay. I promise I'll give her ...