He has No One

The Shadows of Brakes

At the hospital, Alicia was already immersed in her ward assignment. The hum of activity surrounded her—monitors beeped, patients called out, and nurses moved swiftly between rooms.

One patient required immediate surgery, and as the attending nurse, Alicia was responsible for preparing everything for the operation. She coordinated efficiently with other nurses and doctors, making sure all necessary equipment and medications were ready

“Dr. Reyes, the patient is prepped and stable,” Alicia reported to the surgeon, her voice calm yet focused.

“Thank you, Alicia. Let’s move to the OR,” the doctor replied.

Alicia nodded, guiding the patient carefully on the stretcher while communicating with her team.

“Okay, everyone, let’s make sure we’re ready. I’ll handle the pre-op checks,” she instructed clearly, moving with confidence.

Her colleagues respected her for her professionalism and compassion. Even under the stress of an urgent surgery, Alicia remained composed, reassuring the patient with a gentle hand and a soft smile.

“Don’t worry, you’re in good hands,” she said as the patient was transferred to the operating table.

Throughout the procedure, Alicia worked seamlessly with the surgical team, checking vitals, monitoring instruments, and assisting wherever needed. Her dedication and skill were evident to everyone around her.

Even amid the rush and pressure of the hospital, Alicia’s calm presence and unwavering focus ensured that the patient received the best care possible—proof of her heart not only for her profession but also for the people she served.

It was already past 12 midnight when Alicia finally finished her duty. The emergency room had been overwhelmed with patients, and the long hours had drained every bit of her energy.

She slowly removed her gloves, took a deep breath, and whispered to herself, “Finally… I can go home.”

The hospital hallways were quieter now, a sharp contrast to the chaos just hours before. Alicia grabbed her bag, walked out, and headed toward her red car parked outside.

The night air was cool, and the roads were nearly empty.

As she drove along the highway, the silence wrapped around her. Streetlights passed one by one, and her eyes began to feel heavy from exhaustion. Still, she stayed focused, wanting nothing more than to get home to her family.

“Hector… the kids…” she softly murmured, thinking of them.

Suddenly—

A shadow appeared out of nowhere.

A man rushed across the road.

“Wait—!” Alicia gasped.

It all happened in a split second.

She slammed on the brakes—

—but it was too late.

THUD.