The machines kept their relentless beeping, the steady rise and fall of the line on the monitor mocking the storm raging inside Anubhav's heart. He hadn't moved from her side. His grip on her hand was firm, yet gentle—as though his very hold was the only thread binding her to this world.

His forehead was still bent against her palm when suddenly... a faint stir. Her fingers twitched again, this time more noticeable. His head shot up, eyes wide with desperate hope.