"She’s not breathing… she’s so cold, Astrid..."
I stood frozen in the doorway. Everything inside me screamed to move to my mother—to run to her—but my legs wouldn’t obey.
Cole was already across the room. As fast as he could. He leaned over Mum, two fingers pressing against her neck, searching desperately for a pulse.
His face was tense.
"Chloe," he said firmly, "let her go. I need you to move."
Chloe hesitated, her arms wrapped protectively around Mum’s limp body, eyes wide and wet with panic.
She shook her head refusing.
"Chloe—now," Cole snapped.
With trembling arms, she shifted back. Cole lowered Mum gently onto the bed and began chest compressions, counting under his breath, his voice low and focused.
I just stood there. Watching. Lip quivering. Absolutely terrified.
Chloe
