The thought of losing her had shaken him to his core. That raw fear had carved something deep and terrifying inside him, and even now, the memory of it made his hands tremble.
He couldn't even begin to imagine what he would do if that fear had become reality. The very idea left him feeling hollow, broken.
So, without another word, he simply slumped beside her bed, silent, overwhelmed, and desperately grateful that she was still breathing.
Minerva and Liz quietly stepped out, deciding to give the others time alone with Hera. They said they would return shortly with a basket of fruit and some nutritious food to help support her recovery, especially for the bone fractures.
Athena remained silent on the couch. Since Hera was in a private room, there was plenty of space for everyone. But Athena didn't move. Her mind was spinning, her body still, as she stared at nothing in particular.
