Alex closed his eyes for a few seconds, trying to steady his breathing. The pain medication made his thoughts feel slow, but one thing remained clear in his mind.
Lynn.
He opened his eyes again and looked at James.
"Did she see me?"
James nodded.
"She was here."
Alex's gaze softened.
"I knew it."
James remained quiet.
"She stayed with me?"
"Every day."
That wasn't a lie.
"She barely left your side," James continued. "The nurses practically forced her to go home. She wasn't eating properly, and everyone was worried about her. The doctor reminded her she's pregnant and needs to take care of herself too."
A faint smile appeared on Alex's face.
"That sounds like her."
James smiled back, though it didn't reach his eyes.
"She wouldn't listen to anyone."
Alex looked toward the ceiling.
"I told her not to worry so much."
James almost laughed.
"She wasn't going to listen to that."
"No."
Alex let out a slow breath.
"She never does."
