Chapter 81

“David!” she cried, jumping to her feet. She ran to him quickly, grabbing his arm before he could hit the wall again. His knuckles were already red from the first blow. “David, calm down!” she said firmly, standing right in front of him, forcing him to stop. He froze. His fist stayed raised, but his eyes locked on hers. For a moment, the world seemed to stand still. Lily’s tearful eyes stared up at him, her own face wet, trembling. “It’s okay… she’s going to be fine,” she whispered, her voice soft but steady. David’s chest rose and fell rapidly, his breaths uneven. His eyes glistened, but he didn’t let the tears fall. He clenched his jaw so tightly that a vein popped along his temple. Lily slowly lifted her hand, hesitating for just a second before cupping his face. Her fingers were cool against his heated skin. “It’s okay,” she repeated quietly, “she’s strong… she’ll make it through.” David’s whole body stiffened at her touch. His heart pounded hard, louder than he thought possible. H