CHAPTER TWENTY ONE – A FRIEND INDEED

The sterile white of the hospital room greeted Scarlett the next morning. Clara's absence sent a jolt of worry through her. Had she left without saying goodbye? Pushing past the unease, Scarlett grabbed a quick breakfast and made her way to Room 207. The door swung open easily, revealing an empty bed. Panic surged through Scarlett. But before she could call out, a familiar voice echoed down the hallway. "Don't worry, Ms. O'Hara! Ms. Thompson's just brightening some little faces in the children's ward!" Relief washed over Scarlett as she recognized the voice of Nurse Sarah from earlier. "Oh, that's good. Is there a schedule...?" A mischievous text buzzed in Scarlett's pocket before she could finish. It was from Clara: "Downstairs, Children's ward. Fun surprise brewing. A smile tugged at Scarlett's lips. Fun surprise? Just Clara. The children's ward was a whirlwind of activity. Beeps mingled with giggles and worried murmurs. A nurse coaxed a little boy named Tommy, who resemble