The Mother's Interrogation

Kira’s POV:

"Mom?" The single syllable tore out of my throat, raw and fractured, as I pushed the heavy door open.

My heart hammered against my ribs like a trapped bird, the frantic rhythm echoing in my ears above the steady, mechanical beeping of the hospital machines. The room smelled of sharp antiseptic and lingering fear, a sterile scent that immediately coated the back of my tongue. Pale mo