Chapter 60 Swinging Doors

• Ardal
• "Alright, Erbao," I whisper as I hold his hand, the dialysis machine humming beside us. The scent of sterilized medical equipment fills my nose, and I find myself gripping the edge of his bed to steady my trembling hands. "You're doing great, sweetheart."
• "Thanks, Mommy," Erbao replies weakly, his brave smile not quite reaching his tired eyes. His pale complexion seems even more pronounced against the stark white hospital sheets.