Zane had been standing for so long that the chair behind him felt like an accusation.
When Athena and the others stepped out of the inner room into the quieter outer space, he straightened immediately, nerves snapping tight beneath his skin. His gaze flicked over their faces, searching for answers before his mouth could catch up.
"How is she?" he asked, the words coming out rougher than intended. "Her injuries—"
Athena sighed, the sound tired, weighted. "Gianna is fine."
Relief hit him so hard it nearly buckled his knees.
"And," Athena added, almost casually, "she wants to see you."
What?
Zane stared at her, genuinely stunned. He hadn't expected that. Hadn't planned for it. Hell, he hadn't even hoped for it.
Showing up every day, hovering on the edge of the hospital like a ghost, had been his limit. Make sure she was breathing. Make sure she was safe. Then leave and handle the fire swallowing his company whole.
