Chapter 167

KEIRA.

A familiar hum filled the air, a mix of beeps and muted voices that seemed both distant and near. It took me a moment to realize it wasn’t just the remnants of a hazy dream. I was in the hospital, tethered to tubes and a heart monitor, feeling the dull ache radiate from my shoulder. Slowly, I opened my eyes, and the room came into focus. I lost my child. I think I might have fallen into another slumber after the news.

"Keira?" George’s voice was soft, laced with relief, and I turned my head just enough to see his face inches away, his eyes wide with a fragile hope.

“Hey,” I managed, my voice raspy, like I hadn’t spoken in days. “You…you look awful.”

He gave a short laugh, the kind that holds back a well of emotion. His hand found mine, his fingers trembling slightly. “You’re awake,” he whispered, voice breaking. “I’ve been waiting… We’ve all been waiting.”

As if on cue, the door creaked open, and I saw Elena step in, carrying her usual air of confidence mixed with an uncharact