As the evening wore on, we decided to take turns grabbing some food from the hospital cafeteria. Mom insisted I go first, probably sensing I needed a break from the heavy atmosphere of Clarina's room. I reluctantly agreed, not wanting to leave but knowing I needed to keep my strength up.
In the cafeteria, I grabbed a sandwich and a bottle of water, then found a quiet corner to sit. I barely tasted the food, my mind still on Clarina and the encounter with Dr. Lucas. How could he be so callous? And what was I supposed to do now?
Just as I was finishing my meal, my phone buzzed. It was a text from Alex, asking how Clarina was doing. I sighed, feeling guilty for snapping at him earlier. I typed out a quick reply, letting him know there hadn't been any change but thanking him for his concern. His response was immediate and comforting, telling me to hang in there and that he was there if I needed to talk.
