That memory tightened around Hannah’s heart. She couldn’t lose her, too. Not now. Not ever. The doctor gently placed a hand on her shoulder. We’re doing everything we can. Then he left. Hannah remained frozen. For several seconds, she simply stared at the floor. Then the emotional weight finally became too much. Tears spilled down her cheeks.
Without thinking, she sat back down. And for the first time, Lucas Sterling moved closer. Not as the successful businessman everyone admired, not as the wealthy founder of a technology empire, just as a man who understood grief. Quietly, he sat beside her. Neither spoke immediately. The silence felt strangely natural.
After a moment, Hannah wiped her eyes. I’m sorry. Lucas looked surprised. For what? You probably don’t even know me. And now you’re watching me fall apart. A faint smile appeared on his face. You’d be surprised. The answer puzzled her. Before she could ask what he meant, Lucas added softly. I lost my father in a hospital.
