Chapter 26: Captured Melodies and Unforeseen Emotions

Thirty minutes later, as Kristen had finally stabilized in her room and allowed visitors, Vivian and Otis walked in. Seeing Kristen lying on the hospital bed, her spirit seemingly lifted despite her red, blotchy face, and both breathed a sigh of relief.

Kristen welcomed them with a weak smile, her face flushed red. "I'm so glad you guys are here."

Vivian approached the bed and gently hugged Kristen, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders as she saw her friend's spirits improving. "Are you okay?" Her voice held a tinge of emotion.

Kristen chuckled softly. "I'm fine, really... Let me introduce you. This is Otis Evans, my boyfriend. I'm guessing this is your first time meeting, right?"

Vivian hesitated momentarily before responding, "I've met Otis before. We used to work together."

Otis glanced at her and nodded. "Yeah, we've met. It's been a while."

Vivian's heart raced, hoping her response sounded natural. She didn't want to reveal Otis Evans' true identity, especially not to Kr