The hospital doors slid open with a soft hiss, releasing Emery, Damian, and Ethan into the cool afternoon air. Emery inhaled deeply, clutching her purse against her chest as though it were the only thing holding her together.
Her mother had looked better today—still weak, but hopeful. The doctors said her recovery would take time, but Emery had seen a spark in her mother’s eyes that had been missing for weeks. That alone made the visit worth it.
Damian’s hand brushed against hers as they crossed the parking lot. “She’ll recover,” he said, his voice steady, certain.
Emery looked up at him, blinking back the sting of tears. “You didn’t have to come, Damian. But you did.”
He opened the car door for her, his gaze never leaving hers. “I’ll always show up for you, Emery.”
The words pre
