Chapter 60. The First Step

The morning light spilled softly into the hospital room, catching the pale blue of the walls and the silver rails of Hayden’s bed. The day had started like the others; quiet and slow, with the faint hum of machines marking time.

But something in the air felt different. Hope had been hovering at the edges for days, small and fragile. Today, it felt closer.

The doctor and his team entered with a portable monitor and a calm smile. “Morning, Mr. Oakley,” he said warmly. “You up for a little progress check?”

Hayden gave a faint nod. “Depends,” he rasped. “You planning to stab me with sharp objects again or just poke me?”

The doctor chuckled. “Just a few pokes today. Let’s see how your nerves are responding.”

Myla stood beside him, fingers laced with his. Beck and Jared hovered near the window, pretending to stay casual, but the worry in their eyes gave them away.

They were all holding their breath.

The doctor positioned the small machine