Chapter 18 · Sign Like Daniel

"Daniel."

Arthur's voice came out rusted. Barely a word. More like air scraped over broken metal.

Vivian's hand went cold in his. She didn't turn around. Didn't look at the doorway where Silas stood frozen, half in shadow, half in the yellow hospital light spilling from the hall.

"Dad." Her throat closed up. "Don't talk. You need to rest."

"My son." Arthur's fingers twitched against hers. His eyes stayed locked past her shoulder. Wet. Bright. "You came back."

She heard Silas take a step. Then stop.

She should say something. Stop this. But her mouth wouldn't work. If she spoke now she'd scream or she'd cry and either way it would all come apart.

"Mr. Ashford." Silas's voice was careful. Soft. Wrong. "You should rest."

"Come here." Arthur tried to lift his hand. Failed. "Let me see you."

Vivian finally turned. Silas stood just inside the door. His face was pale. Tight. He looked at her like he was asking permission. Or maybe asking her to stop this.

She couldn't do either.

"Go on," she heard herself say. Hollow. "He wants to see you."

Silas crossed the room. Slow. Every step looked like it hurt.