Two hours had passed since Professor Ginsberry left. The infirmary had settled into a quiet rhythm, the soft footsteps of attendants, the occasional cough from another patient, the rustle of sheets.
Pearl stretched in her chair and yawned. "I'm starving. Des, want to come with me to the dining hall? I heard they're serving that chocolate cake Amara loves."
Des stood up, cracking his knuckles. "Yeah, I could eat. You want anything else, Amara?"
"Just the cake is fine," I said, managing a small smile. "Thanks, guys."
"We'll be back soon!" Pearl gave my hand one last squeeze before heading out with Des.
The door clicked shut behind them, and suddenly the room felt too quiet. I glanced over at Kai's bed. He was sitting up, staring down at his hands. He had been unusually silent since Professor Ginsberry left.
"Kai?" I called softly. "You okay?"
He didn't answer right away. Just kept staring at his hands, turning them over slowly.
