CHAPTER FORTY

Anika's P.O.V

I opened my eyes to a pounding headache, groaning as waves of pain washed over me. Slowly, the agony lessened, allowing me to take in my surroundings. The sterile white walls and medical equipment indicated that I was in a hospital.

Originally disoriented, my memory quickly flooded back in a torrent of recollection. The kidnapping, the gunshot, the chaotic scene—each detail resurfaced with overwhelming clarity, leaving me breathless.

"Kelvin!" The name escaped my lips as panic surged through me, compelling me to sit up. However, the myriad of wires tethered to me from various machines rendered any movement nearly impossible.

My gaze shifted downwards, revealing casts enveloping my legs. Dread settled in as I realized the extent of my injuries.

The relentless voice in my mind continued to echo, "You killed Kelvin," tormenting me with guilt and grief. Tears welled in my eyes as I grappled with the unbearable weight of his loss.

"Kelvin!" I screamed, my voice thick wit