Chapter 57 Melissa

• I watched the medics care to Frank. They informed me that the wound was not life-threatening, but he would require time to recover. I felt like I was holding my breath the entire time, even while they cleansed his wounds and dressed him in bandages, as if the smallest movement on my side would disrupt the peace we'd managed to establish in this hospital room.
• Mom remained close, her gaze never leaving Frank.
• As night fell, silence descended over the room, interrupted only by the gentle beeps and hums of the equipment that monitored Frank's vitals. I couldn't force myself to leave his side, and I didn't think he wanted me to. He was barely conscious, his eyelids twitching up every now and again to ensure I was still present. Each time they did, I felt a powerful wave of affection that almost took me off balance.