He also saw Derek. The tall, strong man was sitting in a wooden chair right by the side of the bed. Derek was still wearing his dark blue military uniform. He was leaning forward, holding Marissa's hand tightly in both of his.
Normally, when Ryan entered her room, Marissa would immediately sit up. She would smile her beautiful, bright smile, call his name, and open her arms for a big hug.
But today, she did not move.
"Mother?" Ryan said. His small voice was suddenly quiet and full of confusion.
He took a slow step forward. Marissa didn't turn her head to look at him on the floor. She didn't open her eyes. She didn't stand up to hug him. She remained perfectly, completely still beneath the heavy blankets.
Hearing the small voice, Derek slowly turned his head away from the bed.
