“Can we see her?” Clara finally asked.

“As soon as the team says she’s ready for visitors.”

The nurse explained that the first hours would require close monitoring.

A technically successful surgery was only the beginning; Chloe would need medications, follow-up appointments, and watchful care.

There were no guarantees about the years ahead.

Clara nodded through her tears.

When the nurse left, she turned back toward me with a guilty expression.

“Grace, I don’t know how to stand here and feel this much relief in front of you.”