Elena's lashes fluttered open after nearly a full day of unconsciousness. Her lips cracked when she tried to speak, voice barely a whisper.
"Anya…Anya "
Valerie, who had been dozing on the chair, jerked upright, her heart racing. She scrambled to the door, calling for the little girl. Within seconds, the sound of quick, unsteady steps echoed down the hall ,the slap of tiny feet against polished wood.
"Nana! Nana!" Anya squealed as she came charging into the room, her pigtails bouncing, her little hands outstretched.
Elena's chest rose in a sharp breath when she saw her daughter. Relief carved itself onto her gaunt face, smoothing the hollows of grief, if only for a moment. She gathered Anya into her arms, clutching her so tightly the girl squealed and laughed, her innocence cutting through the heavy silence.
