Chapter 2: The Woman I Left
Her voice was barely more than a breath, but it hit me harder than any accusation could have.
Healthcare facility directory
I stepped closer, slowly, as if sudden movement might make her disappear.
“Emma,” I said, but her name came out ruined.
She tried to stand, then winced and lowered herself back against the wall.
Instinct pulled me forward before pride could stop me.
“Don’t,” I said gently. “Please. Stay seated.”
She gave me a faint smile that did not reach her eyes.
“You always hated hospitals.”
I almost laughed because it was true, and because she remembered, and because the world had become unbearable in the space of five seconds.
“What are you doing here?” I asked.
Even as I said it, I knew it was the wrong question.
