Chapter 1
The sterile scent of antiseptic and bleach hung heavily in the air of the intensive care unit.
Steven pushed open the heavy swinging doors, his navy blue tuxedo jacket wrinkled from his desperate sprint through the parking lot.
The rhythmic beeping of the heart monitor echoed like a relentless countdown against the quiet white walls.
There she lay, pale and fragile against the hospital pillows, wearing a simple yellow gown that contrasted sharply with the vibrant memories of their past.
"Elizabeth," Steven breathed out, his voice cracking as he rushed to the side of the narrow metal bed.
Elizabeth turned her head slowly, her blue eyes filled with an overwhelming mixture of exhaustion and profound relief.
"Steven... you came," she whispered, her chest rising and falling in shallow, painful gasps.
Steven reached out, taking her cold, trembling hand in his and pressing it tightly against his cheek.
"I'm here, I'm right here," Steven choked out, fighting back the hot tears stinging his eyes.
"How did this happen? They told me you were gone, that you left years ago!"
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Elizabeth shook her head weakly, a tear slipping down her hollow cheek.
"I never left you, Steven... they forced me away to protect you and our daughter."
