Chapter 1-2
The hallway is dimly lit and quiet, except for the occasional distant beep of machines.
Ada lies on a pediatric bed nearby, bandaged and asleep under sedation. Neighbor Leah watches over her. Suddenly, the entrance doors swing open and a man rushes in—Timothy, Marcus'ss younger brother, eyes wild with panic.
Timothy
*breathless, to receptionist*
Marcus Thorne- was brought in with his daughter, Adaline. Where are they?
Receptionist
They’re both in treatment. Marcus's out of surgery but in critical care. His daughter is in pediatrics. You’re family?
Leah stands as she sees him and walks over.
Neighbor 1
*gently*
Timothy.
Timothy
What happened? How did this happen?
Neighbor 1
*eyes welling*
It was a fire… short circuit, they said. Marcus got Ada out, but—he couldn’t save Anna or little Ava. He… he nearly died getting Ada out.
Timothy staggers slightly, the weight of the news hitting him. He covers his mouth, his eyes red.
Timothy
*slowly*
Anna.. Ava.. no..
He walks slowly over to Ada's bedside. She stirs a little in her sleep, letting out a soft whimper. Her arms are covered in sterile dressings.
Timothy
*kneeling beside her*
I’m here now, Ada. Uncle’s here… I’ve got you, baby.
The doctor approaches quietly
Dr. Remer
Mr. Thorne? Your brother made it through surgery. He’s unconscious but stable. We’re monitoring him in ICU. It’ll be a long recovery.
Timothy
*nods, wiping his face*
Thank you doctor. and adaline?
Dr. Lucy
She’s stable, but the burns are serious. We’ll need to monitor her for infection, and she’ll need dressing changes daily. Emotionally… it’s going to be a difficult road.
Timothy glances back at Ada, guilt and protectiveness mixing in his eyes.
Neighbor 1
No one saw it coming, Tim. But you're here now. And they need you more than ever.
Tim walks to the ICU window. Through the glass, he sees Marcus unconscious, bandaged and intubated. Machines beep steadily beside him.
Timothy
*to Marcus*
You saved her, brother. You did what only a father could do. I promise… I’ll take care of her now. Of both of you.
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