The hospital smelled of antiseptic and something sterile, the bright fluorescent lights making Olivia squint as Joel carried her through the emergency room doors. A nurse rushed toward them, eyes widening as she took in Olivia’s bruised and battered state.
“We need help,” Joel said, urgency in his voice. “She’s hurt.”
The nurse nodded quickly, motioning for a wheelchair. “Set her down here. We’ll take care of her.”
Joel hesitated for only a moment before gently lowering Olivia into the chair. As soon as he let go, she felt the coldness of the world settle around her again. She didn’t want him to let go.
A doctor approached, glancing between them. “Are you hurt too?” he asked Joel, noting the scraped knuckles and tense posture.
“I’m fine,” Joel said, his eyes never leaving Olivia.
The
