CHAPTER 167

Sophia’s POV

My mind was stuck in that hospital hallway, replaying the scene between Julia and Elijah over and over. By the time I parked and walked into the Italian restaurant, I was exhausted, both physically and emotionally.

I spotted Kayla at our usual corner table, slightly secluded from the rest of the diners. She stood up with a warm smile, and we hugged tightly.

“Soph! It’s been too long,” she said, pulling back to look at me. Her smile faltered slightly. “You okay? You don't seem like your usual jolly self.”

I waved a hand dismissively, trying to brush off her concern. “It's nothing, really.”

Kayla frowned, her eyes narrowing. "I know something's up. Come on, tell me."

We sat down, and I took a deep breath, knowing she wouldn’t let it go. “I was at the hospital earlier,” I began, my voice shaking slightly. “Julia was screaming and crying because the doctor told her she might never be able to use her right hand again. Elijah was there comforting her. Then she… she asked him to