Chapter 219

Draven's POV The hospital waiting room smelled of antiseptic. We'd been there for nearly four hours when the surgeon finally emerged, still in blood-stained scrubs. Eleanor stood immediately, her face pale but composed. "How is he?" she asked, voice barely steady. The doctor's expression was guarded. "Alpha Nathaniel is stable but in critical condition. The attackers clearly meant to do permanent damage. There are multiple fractures to his ribs, a punctured lung, severe head trauma, and most concerning... potential spinal injury." "Spinal injury?" Eleanor's voice cracked. "What does that mean?" "There's swelling around his upper spine. Until it goes down, we won't know how bad the damage is, but he might be partially paralyzed." I felt sick. Werewolves could heal from many things, including cuts, bruises, even broken bones, but spinal injuries affecting the nervous system were different. Eleanor swayed, and I caught her arm to steady her. "Can I see him?" she whispered. "He's in recove