#Chapter 43: Healing Faster

My head ached as I slowly opened my eyes, squinting against the blinding white light that enveloped the hospital room. The soft beeping sound coming from beside me only added to my disorientation. Where was I, and what had happened? Blinking multiple times, I struggled to come to my senses. As my vision cleared, I noticed that my father was standing right at my bedside. His tired eyes and strained expression made him look like he had aged ten years overnight. Beside him was Lucas, who looked just as worried, but his handsome presence still managed to bring me a sense of comfort. Why is my first thought awake about how attractive he is? God, did I hit my head or something? "Hello," I managed to say in a croaky voice, leaving me to clear my throat. "You've been unconscious all night, and the first thing you say is 'Hello'?" Lucas reprimanded me, but I could see the smile that was threatening to take form on his lips. "Uh..." I stuttered, unsure of what else to