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Avery, despite his weariness, returned the gesture with a reassuring squeeze. "We're a team, Bella. Now, let's focus on your father's recovery. I'll catch up on rest later."

Avery and Bella stepped outside the room to breathe in the fresh morning air. The corridor, devoid of the night's hushed whispers, echoed with the footsteps of a new day. They exchanged a few words, acknowledging the challenges they had faced together, and the unspoken understanding that had evolved in the process.

As the morning light bathed the hospital room in warmth, the exchange between Bella and Avery encapsulated a shared journey of support and understanding. In the face of challenges, their connection deepened, transcending the boundaries of roles and responsibilities. Together, they faced the uncertainties of the day, drawing strength from the bond forged in the quiet moments of the night.

At around 8 am, as the morning light bathed the city, Luke dialed Avery's number with a sense of concern and curiosit