The ambulance doors burst open. Paramedics rush Aria inside on a stretcher. Blood stains her white shirt, a deep gash on her forehead. But even unconscious, her arms remain slightly curled, as if still protecting Aurora.
Aurora Walton
*Crying, clutching Aria's hand as they wheel her away* Daddy… wake up!
Doc
*Urgently to nurses* She’s lost a lot of blood. Prep the OR now!
A nurse gently pulls Aurora away, but the little girl thrashes, screaming for Aria. A kind nurse kneels beside her.
Jenny (Nurse)
Sweetheart, your mommy is very strong. She will be okay.
Aurora Walton
*Sobbing* Not mommy! She’s my daddy!
The nurse looks surprised but smiles softly, wiping Aurora’s tears.
.
.
[30 minutes later – Hospital Hallway]
Eliza rushes inside, her heart pounding. Her eyes frantically search the waiting area until she spots a small figure sitting alone on a chair, curled up, arms wrapped around her knees.
Eliza Walton
*Panicked, rushing to Aurora* Baby! Are you hurt?!
Aurora lifts her head, her big teary eyes locking onto Eliza.
Aurora Walton
*Sniffles* Mommy…
Eliza Walton
*Checking her for injuries, kissing her forehead* Thank God! You're okay!
Aurora Walton
*Softly* Daddy saved me.
Eliza freezes. Her throat tightens.
Eliza Walton
*Whispers* Daddy…?
Aurora Walton
*Nods, looking toward the closed OT doors* Daddy hugged me so tight when the car crashed. She got hurt because of me…
Tears roll down Aurora’s cheeks again. Eliza pulls her into a tight embrace.
Eliza Walton
*Shaking her head, voice breaking* No, baby… it’s not your fault.
Her grip on Aurora tightens as guilt and fear consume her. Her eyes remain fixed on the OT doors, her heart hammering in her chest.
Eliza Walton
*Whispers to herself* Aria… please, don’t leave us.
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