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~Elara's POV
A month later….
I felt the hospital walls shrink behind me as I stepped out, the sunlight hitting my face like it was welcoming me back to life. After a month trapped in that sterile room, I could finally breathe again, really breathe. Darlon was at my side, steady as always, his hand gripping mine, his eyes scanning me like he couldn't believe I was really here. David and Janae walked just behind us, smiles bright but careful, almost afraid to disturb the fragile calm that had settled over me.
I looked at them and laughed softly, a little shaky, but genuine. "I… I can't thank you enough," I said, my voice still weak but full of warmth. "You stayed. You didn't even go on your honeymoon because of me. I…." I broke off, overwhelmed by the memory. "I feel terrible."
Janae shook her head, smiling. "Elara, it's fine. You needed us. That's what friends, family… what we do."
