Caught off guard

Once loved, Now lost

It had been nearly a week since Carmen had last been conscious... if that was even what you would call it. The doctors had informed team red that the surgery was successful, inquiring that she only required rest; stating that remaining in the hospital to relax would only increase their chance of being found.

Once Carmen was safely back home, though reluctant, Shadowsan went out on solo missions against VILE. This left Julia, Zack, Ivy, Player, and occasionally Shadowsan, to take shifts watching the injured thief.

The young women hardly stirred, the doctors had confirmed that she wasn't brain dead... however, even during her nightmare a few days ago, she still hadn't move her left arm.

Carmen's condition was worse than in Stockholm. She remained pale and lifeless, many tubes reminding her body to breathe, as well as eat.

She was lying on the couch with Player monitoring her intently, the young hacker was trying desperately to get a response out of her... but to no avail.

The Boston siblings were in the kitchen having lunch together, as they normally did.

However, since the incident at the hospital, everyone remained engulfed by fear and worry.

Shadowsan had observed the cuts on Carmen's arms, and confirmed that they were made by the Argentinian.

They agreed to get the young women into therapy, as well as physical therapy once she was healed enough. However, they did their best to avoid sending her to a facility, knowing that being caged up would only worsen her mental state.

The idea of a therapy animal for Carmen was brought up in conversation, however it was shut down just as fast by Shadowsan.

He claimed to despise the thought of taking care of another child. It wasn't like a therapy dog could tag along for a caper... right?

***

It was a brisk and quiet day in California.

Shadowsan made his way out of the elevator, luggage in tow. He had a twelve hour flight ahead of him to Italy.

VILE were planning to steal from the famous Uffizi Gallery, particularly famous artworks.

Having two people to look after Carmen, not including Player, who would be assisting during the caper, could prove problematic. Not to mention how the Boston siblings had never been apart for so long.

Therefore, despite his need for a getaway driver, Shadowsan was off to Europe for his solo mission.

Before making his way through the door, the man made sure to get a glimpse of Carmen, who was currently being monitored by Julia.

Hopefully, she would be better in a week or so, when he was due to return.

***

Without Carmen by his side to appreciate the little things, or to open his eyes to the big city,
the week flew by fast.

The mission had been successful, and rather uninteresting.

When the samurai's flight had landed, it was 12:59am. Zack was currently watching over the Argentinian, so Shadowsan found it in his best interest to take an Uber. (taxi or cab).

The traffic back to red base from the airport was a breeze. Unfortunately, it was 1:17am and Shadowsan was not the slightest bit tired. It was currently 9:08am in Italy, and he was severely jet-lagged.

When he approached the building and entered through the previously locked doors, the first thing his eyes set on was Zack.

He seemed to be trying his best to stay awake; but the red head looked exhausted.