Seeing the shift.
He’s right.
Clay isn’t crashing.
Not anymore.
I exhale slowly.
First real breath I’ve taken since this started.
“Good,” I say quietly.
Then I look back down at Clay.
And don’t move.
Because I’m not done.
Not yet.
His eyes flicker.
Barely open.
Just enough to show a sliver of awareness.
Unfocused.
Clouded.
But there.
“Hannah…”
My name.
Rough.
Broken.
But unmistakable.
My heart stutters.
“You’re okay,” I say immediately. Steady. Certain. “You’re safe.”
His gaze shifts slightly.
Trying to find me.
I lean closer.
Right into his line of sight.
“I’ve got you,” I tell him.
Something in his expression eases.
