The surgical waiting room was sterile and cold gray walls, uncomfortable chairs, the quiet hum of fluorescent lights overhead.
Leo sat with his elbows on his knees, hands clasped, staring at the floor.
Lila paced near the window, arms crossed, occasionally glancing at the clock.
6:47 AM.
Their mother had been taken back at 6:15.
The surgeon had said the procedure would take four to six hours.
Four to six hours.
Leo's leg bounced restlessly.
Lila stopped pacing, turning to look at him. "You should eat something."
"I'm not hungry."
"You haven't eaten since yesterday."
"I'm fine."
She moved closer, sitting in the chair beside him. "Leo—"
"I said I'm fine."
Lila was quiet for a moment, studying his face. "You look like you haven't slept in days."
"I haven't."
"Then maybe you should try—"
"Lila, please." His voice was tight. "I just need to sit here and wait. Okay?"
She nodded slowly, then leaned back in her chair, pulling her knees up to her chest.
