Alice Gallagher sat rigid in the hospital chair, her chin lifted defiantly. "I'm not leaving."
Damian sighed, running a hand through his dark hair. "Alice, be reasonable. You've been through a trauma."
"So has Lyra," Alice countered. Her eyes, still shadowed from her recent ordeal, flashed with determination. "She saved my life. Now she's facing murder charges. How could I possibly leave?"
The hospital room fell silent. Outside, rain pattered against the windows, matching the somber mood inside.
"I understand loyalty, but—" Damian began.
"This isn't just about loyalty." Alice's voice softened. "For the first time in my life, I'm making my own decision. I'm staying in Oceanion."
Isabella Gallagher exchanged a glance with her husband before approaching her daughter. "If that's what you feel you need to do, then we'll support you."
"We'll stay too," Mr. Gallagher added, surprising everyone. "I'll reschedule my meetings."
Alice's eyes widened. "Really?"
