73. Nightmare

The hallway outside Avery's room became a silent vigil, with Gideon and Tanner seated on the floor, a guardianship in the dim light. Gideon, sensing Tanner's restlessness, tried to offer words of comfort. "It'll get easier every day. The first few days are always the hardest," he assured.

Tanner laughed, but there was a hint of skepticism in his voice. "Yeah, I'm not so sure about that," he replied, his eyes fixed on the closed door.

Gideon reflected for a moment before speaking. "As much as I want to draw parallels between this and my experience with Avla, it's different. I didn't see Avla again for years. My feelings had evolved into a protective obsession by the time I did. But she was unaware of my watchful presence, of the ways I tried to ensure her well-being."

The door creaked open, revealing Avery peeking out. Avla, with a gentle tone, reassured her, "See? Tanner's right there, just like he promised. Now, let's get back to our story." She left the door cracked open, allowing A