DAMIEN POV
My neck screamed in protest. Muscles that hadn't moved in months refusing to cooperate.
But I managed. Inch by inch.
Month Four of the Coma
The FBI officially deprioritized the Brighton investigation.
Patricia delivered the news over the phone.
"They don't have enough. Without Elena's testimony, without concrete evidence..."
"So Brighton walks free."
"For now. The case isn't closed. But active pursuit has been suspended."
"This is bullshit."
"I know. But Damien, there's nothing we can do to change it right now. The system needs evidence. And our main piece of evidence is in a coma."
I hung up without saying goodbye.
Went back to Elena's room. Sat in my usual chair. Took her hand.
"They're giving up on you," I said quietly. "The FBI. The police. Everyone."
The heart monitor beeped.
"But I'm not." I squeezed her hand. "I'm never giving up. You hear me? Never."
Nothing.
I sat there for hours. Watching the machines. Listening to the beeps.
