When Cassidy arrived at her mother's hospital room, she found Martha standing quietly near the foot of the bed. A couple of doctors were inside, speaking in low voices as they completed their first examination since Teresa had regained consciousness.
Teresa was awake, slightly propped up against a pillow. Her eyes were open but dull, following the doctors with a faint, distant focus. She hadn't spoken yet.
Martha glanced toward the door the moment she noticed Cassidy. She gave her a small nod, the kind that carried a quiet mix of relief and caution.
Cassidy walked in slowly, her steps careful. Just seeing her mother like this made her chest tighten. Teresa looked pale and thinner than before, her presence faint but still holding on.
She was awake. She had come back. That was enough for now.
Cassidy stopped beside Martha, her eyes fixed on her mother. One of the doctors turned to her and gave a polite nod, then stepped back after finishing his notes on the tablet in his hand.
