Nikolas, who had been standing by the door, finally stepped forward. "Boss…"
Vaughn's gaze shifted to Nikolas, and despite everything, a faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Nik…"
Nikolas grinned, relieved to see that familiar spark in Vaughn's eyes. "You really scare us boss.. Next time, try not to give us all a heart attack."
Vaughn chuckled weakly, though it quickly turned into a wince of pain.
Emery immediately moved to adjust his pillow, her motherly instincts kicking in. "Careful, Vaughn," she chided gently.
"Yes, ma'am," Vaughn replied with a small smile, his eyes full of affection as he looked at his mother.
Nick watched the exchange silently, his emotions swirling beneath his calm exterior. He had always known Vaughn was tough.. after all, he had raised him to be.. but seeing him like this, so close to the edge, had shaken him in a way he hadn't expected.
