Heavy, deliberate footsteps echoed down the hospital corridor as Alaric strode into Adrianna's ward. His presence was commanding, the kind that made even the staff instinctively step aside. Inside the dimly lit room, Adrianna lay still, her face pale against the stark white pillow. Machines beeped softly, their rhythm a subtle reminder of her fragile condition.
Alaric paused by the door, his piercing gaze fixed on her. He didn't enter immediately, as if giving himself a moment to brace. He hated seeing her like this—vulnerable, fragile, and far removed from the Adrianna he knew, the fierce woman who had stood beside him in countless battles.