24. Smoking & Flirting

Chapter Twenty Four

The police chief raised his hand, calling for silence. "Everyone, keep quiet! We need to get your grandfather to the hospital now," he ordered.

An ambulance arrived, and paramedics rushed Grandfather out on a stretcher. Stella held his hand, tears streaming down her face. Declan followed closely, his face tense with worry.

At the hospital, the doctors sprang into action. Grandfather was whisked away to surgery, and the family was left in the waiting room, their faces pale with fear and anxiety. Hours passed, and still, there was no news.

By the time the doctors emerged, they looked exhausted. "We've done all we can," one said grimly. "But his condition is critical. We'll have to keep him in intensive care and monitor him closely."

The police officers, who had stayed to take statements, looked at the tired and distraught family. "We'll be back tomorrow to get everyone's statements," the chief said, glancing sympathetically at Stella. "You all need to focus on you