25

Maxine's POV

The days in the hospital began to blur together, but slowly, I started to find the will to survive again. I forced myself to eat, even when the thought of food made my stomach turn. Elena stayed by my side, coaxing me to take small bites and cheering me on with every swallow.

"Come on, Maxine, just a little more," Elena would say, her voice filled with gentle encouragement. "You're doing so well."

I managed a small smile as I took another bite. The food tasted like ash, but I kept eating, driven by a new hope. Gradually, I began to feel a tiny spark of life returning to me. I started laughing at Elena's jokes, even though they were corny and silly. It felt good to laugh, like a release of some of the heavy burden I carried.

The doctors were incredibly supportive. They didn't just treat my physical wounds but also worked tirelessly to help me heal mentally. They listened patiently as I poured out my fears and pain, giving me words of comfort and methods to cope with my tra