Leila's awakening was announced by the soft beeping of the machine.
Her eyes fluttered open, and it took a while for them to adjust to the familiar ceiling of the ICU. She tried to sit up, but a sharp pain shot through her head, forcing her back onto the pillow. She winced, trying to remember what had happened to her.
The doctor's voice sounded beside her. "Easy, Leila. You were overly excited and lost consciousness. Please don't try to move."
She turned her head, meeting the eyes of the doctor who stood beside her. Her mouth felt parched, her throat dry and scratchy as she tried to speak.
The doctor smiled softly and handed her a glass of water. "Take your time. You've been under sedation for a while."
Leila took a small sip, feeling the cool water soothe her throat. "Where... where is my father?" she croaked.
