After arriving in the bustling city and checking into our hotel, we wasted no time in heading straight to the hospital. I was eager to see Mr. Rowe as soon as possible, and my remaining days were precious for searching for Elara. We had already made arrangements with his son, who assured us he would be waiting for us at the hospital.
Upon our arrival at the hospital, Jared paused to speak with Mr. Rowe's son, and I couldn't contain my urgency any longer. I stepped inside, my heart racing, only to be taken aback by the sight of Elara.
"Elara?" I called out, my voice a mix of relief and disbelief. Without waiting for a response, I rushed towards her and enveloped her in a tight embrace, feeling the warmth of her presence. Her smile broke through the heaviness in my heart.
"Stop crying, Elara. You know I can't stand it when you cry," I said softly. She struggled to compose herself, trying to explain the whirlwind of emotions she was experiencing, but all I wanted was to hold her a moment longer. I had missed her more than I had ever allowed myself to admit.
A sudden cough interrupted our reunion, and I reluctantly released her from my arms. I was introduced to Luna, who must have been the girl Elara had mentioned in her letters. I shook her hand, a small smile on my face as I said, "I've read about you."
"So, what brings you here?" Elara asked, her curiosity evident.
"I came with Jared," I replied, my tone shifting slightly as I continued, "We need to discuss some urgent matters regarding Mr. Rowe. I find it surprising that he has such a close connection to you, considering the IVF and you being here at the hospital."
As if summoned by our conversation, Jared entered the room, and I turned my attention to Mr. Rowe's son. He explained that his father had briefly awakened but had since fallen back into sleep. The nurse had notified him that Mr Rowe required blood—hence the call for Elara. A tight knot of concern formed in my stomach; Elara's blood was rare and special, not something to be used lightly by just anyone. It felt inherently unfair that it should be available to anyone but me.
"So, what's your relationship with Elara?" Mr Rowe's son asked with a playful tone. I hesitated, not wanting to disclose that she was my sister. "It's a bit personal," I finally replied, choosing my words carefully. An eyebrow arched playfully, he responded, "Okay, so when do you think your father will awaken again?"
"I honestly can't say," he answered, a look of worry clearly etched across his face. I nodded in understanding, knowing that we needed to discuss the pressing issues at home. With reluctance, I shared my concerns about the turmoil surrounding us and how his men were using their newly given power foolishly.
"I'm really sorry about that Mr. Darron," he began, but I quickly interrupted, "Just call me Damon, please."
"Alright, Mr. Damon," he replied, the weight of the situation hanging in the air. "We had no idea all of this was happening. James has been reporting that everything was fine, no trouble at all…" His expression darkened with frustration, anger boiling beneath the surface.