Chapter 97

As soon as Grandma opened her eyes, everyone rushed to her side. "Mom, you're awake!" Dad exclaimed. Nicole joined the group, but I noticed a chilling glint in her eyes. I knew she harbored dark intentions; she wouldn't let Grandma survive.

Grandma, wearing an oxygen mask, couldn't speak, but her gaze remained fixed on me. I wondered if I was imagining it—perhaps she wasn't looking at me at all. Even so, I whispered, "Grandma."

Strangely, tears welled in her eyes as soon as I spoke. An idea struck me, and I moved closer to Nicole. Grandma's eyes followed my every movement. I was certain she could see me.

"Grandma, can you see me? Can you hear me? If you can, blink twice."

With a visible effort, her weary eyelids blinked twice.

"Grandma!" I cried, rushing to her side. As before, though, I couldn't touch her. I lay against her chest, listening to her slow, fragile heartbeat. "I'm sorry, Grandma. I can't do anything to help you."

Grandma tried to lift her hand to touch my head, but she couldn't speak or move. It was heartbreaking.

Dad was frantic. "Mom, what are you trying to say?"

Tears streamed down Grandma's face, while Nicole appeared uneasy, perhaps fearing Grandma would reveal her wrongdoing.

"Dad, the doctor said Grandma suffered brain damage in her fall. She was expected to be in a vegetative state, but she pulled through. Now, she can't move or speak, but she's aware."

"Mom..." Dad dabbed at her tears. "Mom, is there something you want to say?"

Grandma made a small, strained sound.

"Dad, the doctor said we shouldn't stress her."

"Okay, I won't. Mom, it's okay. I have good news—Amanda wasn't found in Shadowmoor. She's probably still in the city. Don't worry, she'll be back soon."

Mentioning me caused Grandma to focus intently on my face. I didn't know if I looked the same as when I was alive; I could only see myself from the neck down. But Grandma recognized me instantly.

I smiled gently. "Grandma, I'm back—or rather, I've never left your side. You just couldn't see or hear me. Don't worry. You have to get better."

Despite my reassurance, Grandma cried harder. "Grandma, I'm gone now. The person I worried about most was you. Please don't cry. I'm always here." Gradually, her tears subsided.

Chapter 98