Holden took a moment to compose himself, then gently shook his head.

He proceeded to recount the fragments of his dream.

Aware of a prior car accident, he surmised his dream's connection to that incident. Yet, beyond those fractured vignettes, he failed to glean any substantial insights. The imagery and sounds remained shrouded in a nebulous haze, eluding comprehension.

The doctor proffered solace, his voice a soothing balm.

“It's perfectly normal, rest assured. Dreaming amidst hypnotherapy signifies hope. Some individuals even find memory elusive during such sessions."

He continued, "This serves as a promising inception. The convalescence shall demand its due time. The trauma from the car accident was severe, and even with hypnotherapy, full recollection isn't assured. You need to be mentally prepared for that."

Holden nodded distantly, his temples receiving a gentle rub.

"You may depart for now. I require a moment of solitude."

Once the doctor left, Holden sank wearily into the sofa, palms tenderly massaging his temples. A pervasive sense of helplessness surged, a realm beyond his mastery. The absent memories bore down on his heart, an incessant thorn.

Within the hospital's hushed sanctuary, a sudden longing to see Ariana seized Holden.

Intent on visiting her, he rose. Yet, upon reaching her door, he was met with surprise: Mitchel stood within, keeping her company.

Mitchel was engrossed in a lively conversation with Ariana while meticulously organizing some of their belongings. Neatly packed bags lay close by, and the two of them chatted and chuckled, exuding the warmth of an affectionate couple.

Outside the hospital room, Holden stood in quiet contemplation, his gaze fixed on Ariana's visage, which was adorned with a radiant smile that seemed to dance in the light.

Ariana's smile, though enchanting, was a rare sight for Holden. In days gone by, her laughter had been his invitation to join in merriment. Now, an unseen weight settled in his chest, firm as a boulder.

Suddenly, an irrational impulse surged within him, a surge to intrude upon the room and bid Mitchel away, to claim his place by Ariana's side.

But what right did he have?

The pressure in Holden's chest became almost unbearable, and he summoned a bitter smile.

He held no standing, no recognized claim. Even his bond with Ariana remained shrouded, veiled in a delicate secrecy that must not be breached.

To this point, their acquaintance had remained unofficial. To Ariana, he was but a shadow, while Mitchel basked openly by her side, free to step into the Light.

Holden's phone chimed twice, drawing his attention. Retrieving it, he walked away and found a video message from Sadie.