“Sofia!” Michael cried.
Daniel removed his hands. The light faded.
“That’s enough for today,” the boy said, breathing heavily. “She heard us. I’ll come back tomorrow.”
Before Michael could stop him, he was gone. The hallway was empty.
That night, Sofia’s cheeks looked slightly pinker. Her hand felt warmer. Doctors noticed unexplained changes but found no medical explanation.
The next morning, as sunlight streamed through the window, Daniel returned.
This time he placed one hand on her forehead and the other over her heart.
“It’s time to wake up, Sofia.”
The light returned, brighter. Monitors spiked. Alarms rang.
“Daddy…”
The faint, hoarse word shattered the room.
Michael collapsed over her, sobbing — but now with joy. Her eyes were open. Confused. Alive.
Doctors rushed in, stunned. A miracle, they whispered.
Amid the chaos, Michael found Daniel standing quietly in the corner.
“Wait,” Michael said, rushing to him. “You saved her. Let me help you. I’ll give you a home, education — anything. Please.”
Daniel smiled gently. “I don’t need money. Just make sure she’s happy. Protect her light.”
“Where will you go?”
“Where I’m needed.”
And he left.