Caleb's POV
Through the endless night, Riley was rushed back into surgery twice more. Each time those operating room doors swung shut, I watched hope slowly leak from everyone around me, even from Mason.
With every medical update we received, his eyes grew dimmer. He had been fighting so hard to hold everyone together, but his strength was cracking. My mother approached us with gentle concern. "Why don't you boys head home and get some rest. We'll call the moment we hear anything new." Her voice carried that sweet tone she used when she was worried about us. Sleep felt impossible right now, but she wanted us to try anyway.
I shook my head firmly. I was staying put until I could see Riley. My mother sighed, recognizing the futility of arguing with me when my mind was made up.
