"David's looking much better today."
The nurse smiled as she led Marcus and Aria down the hospital corridor. It had been a week since David's condition had stabilized enough to move him from the ICU to a regular recovery ward.
"He's been asking for you," the nurse continued.
They found David sitting up in bed, looking significantly healthier than the last time they'd seen him. Color had returned to his face, and his eyes were alert.
"Marcus," David said, managing a weak smile. "You look terrible."
"You're one to talk," Marcus replied, pulling up a chair. "How are you feeling?"
"Like I got shot twice but somehow lived," David said. His voice was still rough but stronger. "Doctors say I can go home in another week if I keep improving."
"That's good news," Aria said.
"Better than I expected when I woke up in ICU," David admitted. "I've been lying here going over everything in my head. Trying to remember details from my investigation that might help you."
