2024-12-06 23:40:15The sharp beep of the heart monitor was the first sound Lucas heard as he started to regain consciousness. His eyelids appeared extremely heavy, and his body pulsed as if it had gone through a meat grinder. The odor of antiseptic filled his nostrils. A healthcare establishment. He groaned, trying to shift, but each muscle protested in opposition.
"Is that you, Lucas?" Oh, what a relief.
His mother's voice cut through the fog, soft and quivering. He blinked, trying to force his eyes open. Evelyn Kane sat beside his bed, donning a worn cardigan that fell gently over her slim frame. Her skin was pale, and her eyes were rimmed in red, suggesting she hadn't slept for days.
"Mom?" His voice came out hoarse, barely above a whisper. "What... what happened?"
"You were in an accident," she said hastily, leaning in closer. "An automobile accident." They claimed… they claimed it was unfortunate, Lucas. "They were uncertain if you would..." Her voice wavered, and she held his hand firmly, as if she feared he could disappear.
Lucas flinched, the recollection of the headlights and the collision racing through his thoughts like a terrible nightmare. "The van...?" he inquired, even though he was already aware of the response.
“Totaled,” she replied, her voice shaking. “However, that is inconsequential.” You are living. "That's what is important."
"Alive, definitely," Lucas murmured, attempting to rise. Pain pierced his ribs, and he winced. “Seems like I was struck by a locomotive.”
""You might just as easily have," another voice commented, sharp and exact. A man in a white coat showed up, carrying a clipboard. His hair, now flecked with gray, was slicked back neatly, and his glasses sat low on his nose. "You are lucky to remain unharmed, Mr. Kane."
"Doctor…?" Evelyn implored, looking at him with wide, worried eyes.
“Dr. Patel,” he offered, looking at Lucas above the edge of his glasses. "You have three broken ribs, a slight concussion, and several ugly bruises, but there is no internal bleeding or serious injuries." “Truly, it’s a wonder that you’re still living.”
“Sure, I’m sensing the ‘miracle’ aspect,” Lucas murmured. He moved once more, grimacing as his body objected. "How much time have I been unconscious?"
"Two days," Evelyn murmured gently, her hold on his hand becoming firmer. "I've been present the entire time."
“Two days?” Lucas’ heart sank. “I can’t—Mom, the bills—”
“Forget the bills,” Evelyn interrupted, her voice firm despite its shakiness. “We’ll figure it out. Right now, you just need to rest.”
Lucas opened his mouth to argue, but Dr. Patel cut him off. “Your mother’s right. You’re in no condition to stress yourself out. Rest is the best thing for you right now.”
“Rest,” Lucas echoed with bitterness. "Of course." That sounds awesome. "Unless I have about a hundred issues waiting for me the moment I leave this place."
Dr. Patel lifted an eyebrow. “Luckily for you, leaving this place isn’t happening right now.” "We will hold you for another night of observation, just to ensure safety."
Lucas sighed, resting his head against the cushion. “Wonderful.”
Later that evening, Lucas was awake in the softly lit hospital room. His mother had at last returned home to rest, although it was evident that she despised departing from him. The constant beep of the heart monitor was the sole noise, a repetitive reminder that he remained alive.
He gazed at the ceiling, his thoughts racing. The crash cycled in his mind repeatedly—the bright lights, the collision, the bizarre sight he experienced afterward. That section was unclear. It did not resemble a dream. It felt… genuine. Very genuine.
He nodded his head, attempting to dismiss the recollection. Perhaps it was merely the concussion affecting him.
But then it happened again.
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