The emergency room doors opened. A doctor emerged, pulling off his mask. We both rushed forward.
"Doctor, how is she?" My voice trembled with tension.
"She's out of danger." The doctor said. "Acute asthma attack. Good thing you brought her in when you did. A few minutes later and..."
He didn't finish, but we understood. My legs nearly gave out.
"How is she now?" Lorenzo asked.
"Still unconscious, but her vital signs are stable. She should wake up soon."
"I need to see her."
"She still needs observation. Once she's awake, ten minutes visiting time each."
I sank back onto the bench to wait.
"Kholod."
"What?"
"These past two years... Noelle's had it rough." He took a deep breath. "Raising a child alone, running that little shop. She barely sleeps, cries constantly..."
"I know."
"You know nothing!" He grew agitated. "Do you know she trembles when she sees black cars? That she cries and begs for mercy in her nightmares? How terrified she is of seeing you again?"
Every word cut like a blade.
"Lorenzo, she's still my wife."
"You never acted like a husband."
"I love her."
That stopped him cold.
"What?"
"I said I love her." I looked him straight in the eye. "Lorenzo Conti, I know I have no right to say that. I know I hurt her beyond measure. But I need you to know—I love Noelle."
"Your love only destroys her."
"I understand," I admitted. "That's why I won't force her to come back."
"And about Leo..."
"I'll wait for Noelle to tell me herself. I respect her choice."
Lorenzo studied me carefully, shock written across his features.
"Kholod Morozov," he finally said, "I don't trust you. But I'll be watching."
"As you wish."
Noelle woke the next morning.
"The patient is awake." A nurse opened the door. "You may go in now."
