The Devil's Bargain

The steady, rhythmic beep of the heart monitor pierced the sterile silence of the hospital room, a relentless countdown of borrowed time. Oliver lay motionless on the crisp white sheets, his frail form looking impossibly small amidst the heavy tangle of wires and breathing tubes. The harsh fluorescent lights cast long shadows over his face. His once vibrant cheeks were now pale and sunken, a stark