ped in a thin blanket on th

e blinds, Eleazar stirred on the bed. A low groan esca

nfamiliar ceiling, at the IV line taped to the bac

n bare chest. The memories of the

is neck. It was a toxic

of emotion. "You're awake. Is y

mself up too fast. He winced, a sha

terfere?" he bit ou

lips. "You could always leave. I'm

Kallie's, but the image of Elaina's face in that

r, his presence overwhelming in the small space. He l

don't you? Seei

said, her voice steady despite

r the edge. He lowered his head, his intent clear. A

hen his phone, abandoned on the nightst

ing face fill

broken. It was like bei

him away, creating a precious f

a frustrated, angry gesture, before accep

night? I was so worried," Kall

," he lied, his voice lo

a cold emptiness s

private line, began to ring. The

call you back." He ended the video

ed the room. "Eleazar. Where are you and Elaina? The fami

heavy with frustration. "M

n public, and to this family, you are Mr. and Mrs. Hudson. The stability o

eld the phone

"Good morni

have been difficult. You just focus on feeling better. I want to s

that small, unexpected kindness felt like a lif