Dance Moms - Lorelei (2) Finding Clara

Chapter 13 : Rescued

The storm broke by daylight, the north team was the first to respond, sending a helicopter searching the area. It didn't take long for them to locate the survivors, the gas station was still in flame, sending up black smoke like a signal in the rain.

Little Clara was waving a white table cloth drawing their attention. Behind her, Chloe was sheltered under a plastic tent that she built from wooden beams and a construction wrap, protecting her savior from the rain. Chloe was still strapped to the gas pipe, her struggle in the tornado has dislocated her shoulder and broke her ribs, she was too weak to untie.

The helicopter flew them directly to South Base for better resources, there Chloe was treated with first priority, for her first degree burn and bone injuries.

"This time you got lucky." her reflection snorted. "One of these days you're luck is going to run out!"

"Maybe so." Chloe smiled. "But not today."

Chloe looked around the shelter, she was among the hundreds lying in stretchers, but unlike her first day, now patients were being sent out to nearby hospitals for proper treatment.

Beyond the stretchers she could see healthy survivors ready to leave on buses. Clara approached a smaller girl, returning the stuffed bunny to its owner. Gabby hugged her lost bunny with joy, her parents thanked Clara with hugs and kisses.

"Already like a big sister!" Doctor Arroway admired.

"Yes. She went through all that to get her bunny." Chloe nodded. "How is she holding up?"

"She's a strong girl. Stronger than you I might say."

Chloe sighed with relief, glad that Doctor Arroway took the duty to deliver the news to the little girl. Chloe has delivered many victims home, but never a death message. She thinks she never could.

"What will happen to her now?" Chloe watched Clara waving the family away. How she must feel knowing she's all alone now?

"That's up to the social service." Arroway touched his glasses. "Let's hope they can find her a good home. She sure deserves it!"