Nicole's eyes fluttered open, the searing pain in her stomach a cruel reminder of the wound Jasper had inflicted. The room was dimly lit, familiar yet strange in her weakened state. As her vision cleared, she saw Jasper standing by her bedside, his face etched with deep remorse and guilt. He looked as though he hadn't slept in days, the bags under his eyes a stark testament to his torment.
"Nicole..." he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. He reached out a trembling hand but then pulled back, as if afraid his touch might cause her more pain. His eyes, once filled with love, were now haunted and hollow.
"Jasper," she murmured, trying to lift her hand towards him, but the effort was almost too much. Pain surged through her body, making her gasp.
