Chapter 97

Júlio woke up with a start, his eyes wide open. Her hand was still resting on his head, her fingers delicate and trembling. He leaned closer, his heart racing.

"Mary? Are you awake?" he asked, his voice filled with relief and emotion.

She opened her eyes slowly, still looking fragile, but her gaze was full of tenderness.

"Júlio…" she repeated, her voice weak but enough to make his heart tighten.

He held her hand between his, leaning in until their foreheads almost touched.

"Thank God