Ruby Rowland's eyes were as red as a rabbit's. She let out a soft whimper and called out for her father.
The man on the hospital bed and the adjutant standing nearby both froze at the word.
"Daddy!"
Ruby struggled out of Kieran Russell's arms. Pumping her little legs, she threw herself at the bedside. Her delicate face was etched with urgency, and her eyes brimmed with worry and heartache as she looked at him.
"Daddy, what's wrong? Does it hurt?"
She grabbed his large hand with her two tiny ones, leaning in to press her chubby cheek against his palm.
Shawn Russell's face was still a bit pale, but he gently rubbed the little girl's soft hair.
"I'm fine."
Ruby didn't believe him. Her eyes were still red, but she tried her hardest to hold back her tears. She didn't want to worry him.
"Uncle Shawn suffered a spiritual power disorder, but it's under control now," Kieran explained.
Ruby's grip on her father's hand tightened for a second.
