16 hours have passed.
The surgery is over.
Alexander Stuart, worn out as though after a monumental battle, but comforted nonetheless.
The operation was considered successful, with no complications.
—
When Ella woke up, the glow of a round sunrise rose outside the window, hanging high in the tree tops, exceptionally bright.
It brought a sense of optimism.
Upon receiving a message from Dilbert, Penny rushed over with a thermos of bone broth. Wilton Lindsey followed her.
They stood guard on either side of Ella's bed.
"My dear, you're awake." Penny lovingly held her hand.
"Mommy?"
Ella opened her sleepy eyes, slightly surprised, "When did you two come over?"
She remembered being overwhelmed by Alexander, then... she knew nothing else.
When she woke up, it felt like she was really a patient.
