Chapter 16

Chapter 16. A nurse stood at the door of the waiting room, calling out their names in a neutral tone, the kind of tone used by people who have delivered important news too often. Liora rose faster than she expected, her knees trembling briefly before she stood upright. Adrian followed, maintaining the same distance they had kept since arriving. Close enough to be seen together, far enough to avoid touching something fragile. Inside the room, white light reflected off the steel table and monitor screens. The doctor looked at the file in his hand before lifting his face. There was caution there, like someone who knew every word could leave a mark. “We need additional blood tests,” he said. “For matching.” Liora felt something tighten in the back of her neck. “Matching… with whom?” The doctor turned, this time toward Adrian. “With her biological parents.” The air felt thick. There was no sound except for the hum of the air conditioner, which suddenly felt too loud. Adrian didn't overreac