Three hours later, the illuminated warning sign above the operating room finally flashed off, and the heavy double doors swung open. The lead heart surgeon stepped out into the corridor, pulling down his surgical mask to report on the success of the grueling procedure.
Standing nearby, Elia's parents caught sight of the fragile child who had just received the heart of their late daughter. They were completely paralyzed by a profound, helpless grief over the tragic loss of their own child, but knowing a vital part of Elia was still beating and living in this world, they could only cling to each other and weep in silent solace.
