Light. A sharp, blinding glare pierced Larissa’s eyes as she forced them open. She blinked—once, twice—until the world blurred into shapes. Still too bright. Still too harsh.

What is this? Her vision swam. Nothing but white. I can’t see anything.

A steady beep-beep-beep beside her. The sterile sting of antiseptic in the air. The crisp sheets under her fingers. The room came into focus, piece by piece.

Hospital. I’m in a hospital. But—why? What happened?

"I see you’re awake." A voice cut through the fog in her head. A nurse, already turning away. "I’ll go get your girlfriend. Won’t be long."

Larissa barely saw her—just the flash of scrubs before the door swung shut.

Ah. Was she there all along? How long had she been standing there, watching me? She frowned. Then—

Girlfriend?

The word detonated in her skull.

Her body jerked upright. A hot twinge shot through her neck. She ignored it.

What is that woman talking about? Mirna—Mirna and I ended things years ago. I haven’t—I’ve been alone since then. What kind of twisted joke—? Her hands scrambled across the mattress. No phone. No bag. Just the IV needle taped to her arm, the thin gown clinging to her skin.

I need to call someone. My parents. Anyone. This doesn’t make sense.

But before she could swing her legs over the edge, the door creaked open again.

A woman stood there.

''Who—?'' Her pulse hammered against her ribs. No. Breathe. Be calm. Maybe she’s—maybe insurance? Yes. Yes, that’s it. Just—just act normal.

She forced her lips into a smile. "H-hi. Good morning." The words tasted brittle. "Can I... help you with something?"