Chapter 354

“Mum, go home and rest,” Riyana said quietly. Her voice was gentle, almost careful, as if speaking too loud would break something fragile between them. “I’ll stay here with him.” She had been holding herself together for hours now. The smell of disinfectant, the cold hospital lights, the endless waiting. Her body was tired, but her mind refused to rest. Still, when she looked at her mother’s pale face and trembling hands, she knew someone had to be strong. Her mother immediately shook her head. “No.” The answer came fast, firm, almost stubborn. “You go home and rest. I’ll sit with him. I don’t want to leave him here alone.” Her voice cracked near the end. She held the edge of the chair tightly, as if letting go would mean losing him. “Mum…” Riyana tried again. She wanted to insist. She wanted to tell her mother that she needed rest, that sitting here all night would only make things worse. But when she looked into her mother’s eyes, she stopped. Those eyes were full of fear. Fear of lo