A nurse entered with a neutral expression. She wasn’t there to check on me—she was part of it. While adjusting the IV line, she whispered, “The guillotine is ready. Should I start?”

I gave another subtle nod. She turned sharply and began the chain reaction.

“Excuse me, sir,” she said firmly. “Why are you recording my patient?”

Ethan never knew when to stop. He hid cruelty behind his so-called honesty. Predictably, he sneered and began his tirade.

“Because my sister here decided to ‘go Black and never go back,’” he said, making air quotes. “What did she think would happen? That some guy would ignore his instincts and play daddy of the year? I’m filming this to show everyone how stupid she really is.”