268: Between Bonds and Betrayals

Emma's hospital room, usually a quiet haven, buzzed with unexpected visits that day. First Alex, and now Viola and Desmond, each arrival bringing with it a swirl of emotions and revelations. Emma's surprise at seeing them was genuine, her spirits lifted by the presence of friends she hadn't expected to visit. "I thought you two had forgotten all about me," Emma teased, her smile broadening. "Suddenly showing up, does this mean you've finally cleared your packed schedules?" Viola and Desmond exchanged glances, a mix of guilt and amusement dancing in their eyes. "We heard what happened in the news, Emma. How could we not come?" Viola confessed, her tone half-serious, half-jesting. "Besides, Desmond here wouldn't stop worrying until we saw you with our own eyes." Desmond, usually more reserved, added, "It's true. We've been swamped, but hearing those wild tales about your condition... Well, we had to see for ourselves." The conversation meandered from updates on Emma's health