Chapter 170

Sloane got into the car, and Dominic drove her to the hospital as promised. The entire ride passed in silence. She leaned against the window, her gaze unfocused, watching buildings, trees, and passing strangers blur into one another. Her mind felt heavy, but oddly blank at the same time. Dominic didn’t try to make conversation. He kept both hands on the steering wheel, eyes forward, respecting the quiet without asking questions. The air inside the car felt still, almost motionless. Only when the car slowed to a stop in front of the hospital entrance did Sloane seem to wake from her thoughts. People streamed in and out, patients, families, staff, each absorbed in their own urgent worlds. She reached for the door handle. “Thanks for the ride,” she said, forcing a small smile. “See you tonight.” Dominic nodded, his expression steady. “See you tonight.” She didn’t linger. Once outside, she walked briskly into the hospital, letting the familiar rhythm of work take over. After the shift hand