Chase sat upright in his hospital bed, his mother spoon-feeding him hospital food, his face screwed up in distaste. Ariel sat beside him, her eyes fixed on his face, a mixture of relief and joy written across her features. She didn’t even flinch as Chase complained about the food, her only concern being his recovery.
“Come on, Chase, just a few more bites,” his mother coaxed.
Chase pulled his hand free and grasped Ariel’s, holding it tightly.
“Hey, I’m okay,” he said softly, his eyes locked on hers.
Ariel smiled, her heart swelling with love.
“I’m just glad you’re awake,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
Just then, the door swung open and Caleb entered, his expression neutral.
“Well, well, well. Look what we have here,” he said, his voice laced with sarcasm.
Chase r
