As that face flickered in Ariana's mind, the IV needle still tethered to her hand hardly concerned her. She shoved the blanket aside, intent on finding Holden.

Just then, the door creaked open, and there stood the very person she wanted to see.

For a brief moment, they locked eyes in silence.

Ariana scrutinized the man standing before her, studying every contour of his face with intensity. It was familiar and comforting.

As she looked at Holden, her eyes welled up.