PART 2
For several seconds, Mark Carter did not understand the nurse’s words.
Discharged.
Four days ago.
Isn’t she home?
The hallway seemed to tilt slightly beneath his polished shoes. Around him, life continued with indifferent rhythm—wheels squeaking across waxed floors, a newborn crying somewhere behind a closed door, nurses speaking in low, efficient tones. But Mark stood completely still, one hand gripping the strap of the overnight bag he had brought as if he had arrived right on time.
“What do you mean discharged?” he asked.
The nurse’s face changed. Not anger. Not accusation. Something worse.
Pity.
“Mrs. Carter was discharged with instructions for follow-up care,” she said carefully. “The babies remained in NICU for observation at first, but I’m not authorized to discuss details without proper clearance.”
“I’m her husband.”
