Chapter 0075

Dr. Whitmore approached my bedside. His penlight flashed across my vision as he studied the monitors. "Evelyn, I'm Dr. Whitmore. Rate your pain level for me."

"Like I got hit by a truck." My voice came out raspy.

He made a note on his chart. "Describe the sensation. Throbbing? Stabbing? Constant ache?"

"Burning mostly. Some deep aches. No sharp pains though."

"Your father may have mentioned this already, but let me explain your condition." He adjusted his glasses. "Your kidnapper's venom overloaded your system. Both your body and Selene are treating it like a foreign toxin. Right now Selene's focusing all her energy on containment, so don't panic if the bond feels muted."

I swallowed with difficulty. "I sense her presence, but the connection's faint."

"That's actually promising. Your recovery exceeds my projections." A hint of admiration colored his tone. "Then again, I should've anticipated this from a Guardian."

"The discomfort should gradually subside. For now, I need you drinking fluids between IV sessions. Rest is crucial - when you wake next, attempt solid food. Think you can manage?"

I nodded, eyelids already growing heavy. Darkness claimed me as my father's voice promised he wouldn't leave.

Moonlight streamed through the window when consciousness returned. Strength had seeped back into my limbs. Genevieve dozed in one chair while Nathaniel snored in another. My father's absence brought a smirk - he'd be furious about missing my awakening after his vow.

A rustle alerted Nathaniel. He bolted upright. "Evelyn." His whisper carried across the quiet room.

He hovered by my side. "I'll fetch the doc and mindlink your father. He'll skin me alive for this - just convinced him to shower and eat after twelve hours."

"What's the time?" My throat felt like sandpaper.

"Nearly 2 AM." He pressed a straw to my lips. I drained the entire glass. The movement stirred Genevieve.

"Look who's back with us!" She sprang up as Nathaniel disappeared for the doctor.

"Better?" She refilled my water.

"Not perfect, but improved." This time I took the glass myself, fingers steadier than before.

Nathaniel returned with Dr. Whitmore. "Evening, doc."

"Good, you're awake." He grinned. "How's my star patient?"

I arched a brow. "Am I your only shifter case?"

"Practically. Werewolves make terrible hospital guests - too restless with our accelerated healing." He began his examination just as my father burst in.

"Knew I shouldn't have gone." His wheelchair squeaked across the floor.

"You needed the break." I studied his face. The worry lines had deepened.

His gaze swept over me. "Your color's better. Status report?"

"Stronger. Still can't hear Selene clearly, but her energy feels less strained."

"Excellent news, sweetheart."

A nurse wheeled in a food tray, positioning it across my lap.

Dr. Whitmore eyed the unappetizing spread. "I know hospital food isn't thrilling, but try."

I poked at the bland mush. "I'll choke it down if it means discharge papers."

"After eating, everyone clears out. No marathon chats." His stern look included Nathaniel and Genevieve.

They nodded in unison as the medical team exited.

I forced down what I could stomach. Genevieve and Nathaniel filled me in on pack gossip, but exhaustion soon dragged me under again.