Joy’s mood had been all over the place lately. Giovanni didn’t dare get too close. He only called softly, “Joy.”

Joy seemed like she didn’t hear him. No response.

Giovanni lowered his voice even more. “Joy, can we go back to the hospital?”

“I’m sorry. I made you all worry.”

Her voice was hoarse and weak, and she apologized on her own.

That calmness only made Giovanni more uneasy. “Joy, if you’re hurting, ...