Maddie's POV
The soft hum of machines and the distant murmur of voices gradually pulled me from the depths of unconsciousness. My eyelids felt heavy, as if weighed down by the world itself. Slowly, I became aware of my surroundings. A sterile, unfamiliar room, the scent of antiseptic in the air, and the dull throbbing ache in my head.
My eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the harsh fluorescent lights above. At first, everything was a blur, but as my vision cleared, I noticed a figure sitting in a chair beside the hospital bed. Mariko.
His face was a mask of worry and his eyes widened with astonishment as they met mine. "Maddie? You're awake!" His voice cracked with relief.
I tried to speak, but my throat felt dry and scratchy. I managed a weak nod, my gaze still locked onto his concerne
