A week passed quietly.
Bella's physical health improved day by day. The color had returned to her cheeks and she no longer felt dizzy when she stood up too quickly. Her body was healing.
Only one thing remained.
The nightmares.
Some nights she slept peacefully, her breathing slow and even, her face relaxed against the pillow. Other nights she would wake up trembling, clinging to Leo until the fear slowly disappeared. He would hold her, whisper reassurances and stay awake until her breathing evened out again.
One evening, while they were having dinner together, Leo gently brought up the topic of college.
"Your classes are starting next week," Leo said.
Bella nodded. "They are."
Leo looked at her calmly, his gray eyes steady. "For now... I think you should attend online. You've been through a lot. There is no need to rush."
Bella quietly listened before smiling. She reached across the table and gently held his hand.
