Chapter 23

• Howard steps into his grandfather’s hospital room. The faint scent of antiseptic hangs in the air, mixing with the subtle warmth of the sun filtering through the window’s thin curtains. Mr. Wendell sits ready in his chair, his eyes sharp and expectant as they lock onto Howard. His voice cuts through the quiet hum of the hospital corridor: "You should have been here fifteen seconds ago."
• Howard’s boots scrape softly against the linoleum as he approaches. His voice carries a weight of exhaustion balanced with apology: "Please forgive me, Grandfather. I’ve faced many things today already." Mr. Wendell’s gaze shifts downward, landing on the soaked, mud-splattered coat clinging to Howard’s shoulders, the fabric damp and heavy.
• "What’s all this? Since when do you wander about like this?" His words are both concerned and commanding. Howard exhales deeply, the moisture in the room catching on his breath. "It’s a long story. For now, please come. I’ll take you to the car."