Sebastian's POV
The morning after Maya first opened her eyes brought a transformation I hadn't dared hope for. When she awakened around eight, her gaze found mine immediately, sharp and present in a way it hadn't been for days.
"Hey," I whispered, moving closer to her bedside.
She struggled to speak, her throat working against the effort. When sound finally emerged, it was hoarse and fragile, but it was real.
"Hey."
The single word hit me like a punch to the chest. My eyes burned with unshed tears. After endless days of silence, hearing her voice again felt like witnessing a miracle.
"How do you feel?" I asked, carefully taking her hand.
Her forehead creased as she seemed to sort through scattered thoughts.
"Lost," she managed after a moment. "Where am I?"
"The hospital," I said gently. "You were hurt in an accident. But you're safe."
When she tried to move, pain flashed across her features and she stiffened.
"Everything hurts," she breathed.
