Pearl and Vansh sat side by side in the quiet hospital room, the hum of machines the only sound between them.
Pearl's fingers nervously twisted the hem of her sleeve."We have to be careful," she said softly. "If she wakes up and doesn't remember, everything we say will shape who she becomes."
Vansh nodded, eyes scanning the still figure on the bed."We'll tell her the truth... but only what she needs to know."
He took a deep breath."She's my cousin. Family. Someone we can trust. Someone we can protect."
Pearl looked up, determination hardening in her gaze."Then we watch her. Help her rebuild. And keep her away from anything that might trigger the old memories."
Vansh smiled faintly, the weight of the past still heavy but hope flickering brighter than before."We start over. Together."
Mayra's eyelids fluttered open, slow and uncertain. The sterile hospital ceiling came into focus, harsh and unfamiliar.
Pearl was the first to notice, her heart tightening. She reached out, gently taking Mayra's hand.
"Hey," Pearl's voice was soft, careful. "You're safe here."
Vansh stepped closer, offering a tentative smile. "Mayra, you've been through a lot… but we're here for you."
Mayra's gaze flickered between them, confusion clouding her eyes.
Pearl swallowed her nerves, speaking slowly, deliberately."We're family. Vansh is your cousin. You're safe with us."
Mayra blinked, trying to grasp the words, the meaning slipping just beyond reach.
Vansh added quietly, "We'll help you remember — but only when you're ready."
Pearl squeezed Mayra's hand, hope and caution mingling.
This was a new beginning — fragile, uncertain, but theirs to shape