**Stefano’s POV**

The sound of the lock on Elena’s hospital door sounded final as I stood there, rooted to the spot, staring at the wood that separated me from my wife, my hand still half-raised, fingers trembling in the air.

I didn't wait for the doctor to offer any more pity. I didn't wait for Elario to come back out and look at me with eyes that finally saw the monster beneath the suit. I turned on my heel and walked out of the hospital.

Outside, the night was cold and indifferent. The ...