Elena's eyes fluttered open after four long weeks, pupils adjusting to the light. Machines hummed softly around her, the air thick with antiseptic and silence.
Valerie leaned forward, relief breaking across her face. "Elena… you're awake."
Elena's brows knitted. Her voice was fragile, disoriented.
"Who are you? Where's Dominic? Where's my baby?"
Valerie swallowed, fighting the ache in her throat. "I'm Valerie… Dominic's sister. You've been unconscious. You're safe now. The baby's here" she gestured to the crib where the tiny girl stirre"I haven't named her yet ."
Elena blinked rapidly, confusion clouding her expression. "Dominic… where is he? He should be here. He wouldn't leave me." Her eyes darted around the room. "Tell him to come in. Please. I need him."
The weight in Valerie's chest grew unbearable. She stepped closer. "Elena… there's something you need to know."
