The nurse at the fourth-floor station had the kind of eyes that made Juniper’s tight chest loosen slightly - warm brown with gentle creases at the corners that suggested a smile beneath her mask.

Juniper found herself searching those eyes for any hint of concern, any shadow that might warn of bad news, but found only professional warmth there. The nurse’s shoulders were relaxed as she looked up from her station, her movements unhurried - another good sign that made Juniper release a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding.

“Daniel’s friend?” the nurse asked, relief softening her features as she rose from her chair. Her badge read ‘Sarah’ in neat script, the lettering worn as if she’d been here long enough to know every beep and whisper of these halls.

“We just got through to him - he said someone was coming to check on her.” The way she said it carried a note of gratitude, as if she’d been worried about Mrs. Sorrin being alone, and was genuinely glad to see someone arrive.

Mrs. Sorrin sat propped up in the adjustable bed, her silver hair catching the muted light. A single bruise on her forearm stood out against her pale skin - the only evidence of her fall. Her face brightened with curiosity upon seeing Juniper, her eyes the same striking blue as her son’s.

“Oh! Are you Sophia? Or Juniper?” she asked eagerly, studying Juniper’s face. “Daniel’s mentioned you both - he said you’re both brilliant, but he didn’t tell me how pretty either of you were. Which one are you?”