Chapter 299 : A Force to be Reckoned With

*Michael*

The harsh fluorescent lights and pervasive stench of antiseptic formed the unrelenting backdrop as I kept watch over Shelby. Though the private hospital room was expertly designed to promote healing and repose, an oppressive undercurrent of tension lingered no matter how I tried to purge it. How could there be any true peace when the woman I loved lay here sleeping with her head wrapped in bandages and IV tubes hanging from her arms?

I watched the steady rise and fall of Shelby's chest with a devotion bordering on the obsessive. Each shallow inhalation was a merciful reassurance despite the grievous injuries inflicted upon her. The doctors insisted her condition was stable, and that the regimen of IV fluids and medications would just speed up her healing. I knew I should get some sleep as Shelby slept, but I needed to make sure she was okay.