The next morning, City Care Clinic was quiet compared to the chaos of last night. Sunlight filtered through the blinds, casting soft stripes across the polished floor. Fred was already awake, sitting beside Zikora's bed, his hand holding hers like he'd never let go.
Zikora blinked slowly, adjusting to the brightness. Her face still bore the marks of the night before—bruised, pale, a little swollen—but the spark in her brown eyes was back.
"Morning, lollipop," Fred whispered, a tired smile tugging at his lips.
"Morning… Freddy," she replied, her voice hoarse but warm. She tried to sit up, but a wave of weakness made her pause.
"Easy… no sudden moves," Fred warned, gently pushing her back onto the pillow. "You had a rough night. The doctors say you need rest."
Mom and Mrs. Wills arrived shortly after, their faces a mix of relief and worry. Mom clasped Zikora's hand, her eyes glossy.
"You gave us a scare, child," she said softly. "No more heroics, okay?"
Zikora offered a weak smile. "I'm… okay, Mom. I promise."
---
Fred's gaze never left her. "I don't know what I'd do without you," he said quietly. "Last night… seeing you like that… I thought…" His voice cracked, and he swallowed hard.
"You thought I'd leave you?" Zikora teased lightly, despite her weakness. "I'm not going anywhere."
"I mean it, lollipop," he said, squeezing her hand. "You're my world. No one… no Ann, no Bernard, nothing… can take that from me."
Zikora smiled softly, letting herself lean into him. "I know… I felt it. Last night, even when I was scared… I knew you'd protect me."
---
The day moved slowly. Nurses checked on her frequently, adjusting IVs and giving instructions. Fred stayed close, refusing to leave her side even for a moment.
By midday, Zikora's strength was slowly returning. She managed to sit upright with Fred supporting her, her hair still messy but her natural beauty shining through despite the bruises.
"Tomorrow, you'll be going home," the doctor said after a quick examination. "But take it slow—no sudden movements, no stress. You've been through a lot."
"Doctor, she'll be fine," Fred assured him. "I'll make sure of it."
The doctor gave a knowing look but didn't argue. "Just keep her calm and monitored."
---
Later that afternoon, Fred helped Zikora to the lounge area of the clinic. Mom and Mrs. Wills sat nearby, talking quietly about the events, while Zikora rested against Fred's shoulder.
"I hate that Ann and Bernard even got this far," Fred muttered, his jaw tight.
Zikora shook her head. "Don't give them power. They're nothing compared to what we have."
Fred's fingers brushed her hair back gently. "You're right. We stick together. That's all that matters."
She leaned closer, letting herself feel safe, letting herself breathe. No screaming, no gunshots, just the warmth of someone who truly cared.
"Freddy," she murmured, "thank you… for everything."
"You don't need to thank me, lollipop," he said, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. "I'll always be here. Always."
For the first time since the attack, Zikora smiled without fear. Outside, the city hummed with life, but here, in this small hospital room, it felt like nothing else mattered but the two of them, side by side, stronger than before.