Finally, the operating room doors slid open with a soft mechanical hiss. The sound cut through the tense stillness of the hallway like a knife. Everyone straightened at once.
A doctor in a blue surgical gown stepped out, tugging his mask down as he scanned the waiting faces. His eyes paused briefly, professional and calm, before he spoke.
"Who is with the patient Elian Ashford?"
Hirvan shot to his feet so quickly that the chair screeched against the floor. Mrs Smith rose beside him, gripping his arm as if afraid he might collapse again. They rushed forward together, stopping just short of the doctor, afraid to crowd him yet unable to keep their distance.
"I am," Hirvan said hoarsely. His voice cracked despite his effort to steady it. "I'm his son."
