Chapter 58. When He Opens His Eyes

The nurse leaned in, scanning the monitor. “Heart rate steady, pressure normal.” Then she looked up at Myla, smiling gently. “Keep talking to him. Familiar voices help.”

Beck moved closer, his hand on Myla’s shoulder as if to steady both of them. Jared stood by the bed rail, silent but alert, eyes locked on Hayden’s face.

“Come on, Hay,” Jared said softly.

The air felt heavy with waiting. The green line on the monitor climbed and dipped in perfect rhythm. Then his eyelids flickered twice before slowly lifting.

Myla let out a shaky sob that sounded like a prayer. “Oh God…” Her fingers pressed to her lips as tears filled her eyes. “You’re awake. You’re really awake.”

Hayden blinked slowly, his gaze unfocused. His lips parted like he was trying to speak, but only a dry rasp came out.

Myla leaned closer, brushing his hair from his forehead. Tears spilling freely. “I’m here, baby.”

His eyes found her. They were still hazy, dazed, but they