The doctor nodded. "He's conscious but very weak. Please try to keep the visit short. He needs to rest as much as possible."
Elena turned to Zinnia, her voice wavering. "Let's go, Zinnia. He'll want to see you."
Samuel stepped forward, his voice calm and reassuring. "I'll wait here. Take your time."
Zinnia looked at him, her eyes grateful, before turning to follow her mother toward the patient room. As they walked, she silently prayed that her father would recover without needing the risky surgery. The thought of losing him was too much to bear.
When they reached the room, Elena hesitated at the door before pushing it open. Zinnia followed her inside, her heart pounding as she saw her father lying in the hospital bed. His usually strong, commanding presence was diminished, his face pale and his breathing shallow. But when he opened his eyes and saw them, a faint smile appeared on his lips.
