Dominic was at my side in seconds, “Rosie, baby, you’re awake? Does it hurt anywhere? Tell me, please.”
I just stared at him. My lips moved, but no sound came out. Then I shook my head, slow and weak.
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the doctor stiffen. He looked like he wanted to say something but didn’t dare. I knew why.
Dominic turned to him, still holding my hand, “Doctor, what were you saying earlier? I didn’t quite hear it.”
The doctor hesitated. His mouth opened, but I gave him a tiny shake of my head. Please. Don’t.
He pressed his lips together, exhaled quietly, and said, “The patient needs rest. No more stress for now.” Then he walked out and left us alone.
The room went silent. Only the sound of the air conditioner filled the space.
Dominic looked at me, his eyes soft, almost breaking. He reached for my cheek. I turned away.
He froze for a second, then his tone changed to gentler, “Hey, I know you’re mad at me. I get it. I should’ve been more careful. I should’ve noticed you fell too.” He took a deep breath, like he was struggling to hold himself together. “But thank God, you and the baby are both okay. I swear, Rosie, if anything happened to you two, I’d never forgive myself.”