70: Hope Perhaps?

When Hilda, Alicia, and Stephen got to the hospital, Theo had already been transferred back to his private room. Xavier was pleasantly surprised to see Stephen, though he just dipped his head in acknowledgment.

“How is he?” Hilda asked softly. Martin shook his head, seemingly worried.

“The surgery was a success, but the doctor says he isn't out of the woods yet.” Hilda nodded, peeling at Theo. She wondered if he knew they were all there waiting for him to wake. Alicia didn't utter a word to anyone. She just stared hopefully, as if she were expecting him to simply pop his eyes open. Xavier appeared from behind her and draped his hand loosely on her shoulders. She actually jerked in surprise, for her mind was solely on her unconscious husband. She turned with a frown.

“Sorry," Xavier whispered. Alicia gave him a small smile before returning her attention to Theo.

“I keep wondering if he will ever wake up.” She confessed, leaning onto Xavier's side with a heavy exhale. Instinctively, X