Save by a Miracle

Chapter 17

Aria awoke the following morning and proceeded to don the attire hanging above. As she dressed, a gentle flutter from within her womb startled her. Astonished by the sensation, she sought out Mac in the kitchen, where he was busy preparing breakfast. Catching sight of Aria, Mac greeted her with a warm, "Hey babe, good morning." Aria reciprocated the greeting, sharing her excitement about the baby's tiny kick.

"Isn't it amazing, babe?" she exclaimed. Mac, wearing a smile in response, replied, "Perhaps I'll get to experience it too." Aria settled at the table, her hands resting on her growing belly. Observing her tiredness, Mac remarked, "You look exhausted." Aria, acknowledging her weariness, confessed, "I am. The baby kept kicking last night, and I barely got four hours of sleep. It wasn't much, but it was something, so I'll take it."

Mac sympathized, warning her, "You're going to be tired." Aria sighed, agreeing with her husband's assessment. "Well, let's eat then. We have to head to work," Mac suggested. Aria nodded, her gaze fixed on him. Together, they arrived at the Phoenix Foundation, where they were greeted by Thornton. "Good morning, Miss Aria. How are you feeling, honey?" Thornton inquired, concern evident in her eyes.

"I'm alright, but I'm ready to take on the world," Aria responded, determination in her voice. Thornton proceeded to brief them on the day's mission, emphasizing the importance of vigilance due to a dangerous killer on the loose.

"Any clue as to the mastermind behind this?" Jack inquired.

"I'm not entirely sure, but his last known location was somewhere between the streets of 3rd and 9th," Thornton revealed.

"Why are we the ones tasked with this mission?" Aria questioned, her gaze fixed on Thornton.

"Because a dear friend of mine lost her son to this monster. I implore you all to track him down and put an end to his reign of terror before he claims any more lives," Thornton pleaded with the group. "Remember, maintain your distance and stay hidden. I cannot bear the thought of any of you getting hurt," Thornton warns the team.

"Don't worry about a thing, Thornton. We'll hunt down this fiend," Aria assures the team, prompting nods of agreement from Riley, Jack, Mac, and, Bozer.

"Then go and do not disappoint me," Thornton commands as she walks away, demanding updates as she exits the room.

"Let's get to work, team," Aria rallies, leading the group out in pursuit of justice for the fallen victim.

The team arrives at the intersection of 3rd and 9th Street, their senses heightened and alert. "Stay on your guard, everyone," Aria declares, a sense of urgency in her voice. Jack, ever the protective one, warns Aria to be cautious. "Take care of yourself, Aria," he advises, his concern evident. Aria expresses her gratitude, acknowledging Jack's concern as the group disembarks from the vehicle.

The team begins their search, scanning the surroundings for any signs of trouble. "I don't see anything," Riley remarks, her disappointment evident. Bozer chimes in, echoing her sentiment.

Suddenly, Aria crumples to the ground, wracked with pain. "Aria!" Mac exclaims, rushing to her side. Aria clutches her belly, her face contorted in agony. "Are you alright?" Mac inquires, worry etched on his face. Aria, struggling to speak through the pain, confesses, "No, my leg is hurting." Mac places one hand on her leg and, the other on her belly, trying to ease her discomfort.

"Could you all give us some space?" Mac requests, his voice filled with urgency. Jack nods, leading the team away from Mac and Aria. Mac examines Aria, reassuring her that it's just a leg cramp and the aches of her growing belly. Aria nods, her distress evident. Tears well up in her eyes as she gazes at Mac, seeking solace.

"Take deep breaths and try to relax," Mac advises, his voice soothing. "I'll leave you here, but promise me you won't wander off," he says, concern evident in his words.

"Please, don't let me die." Mac's heart sinks at her words. "You're not going to die, Aria. We're going to get you help," he reassures her. Bozer looks around, trying to spot any nearby assistance. "We need to get her out of here," he says urgently.

"Aria, can you tell me what happened?" Mac asks gently. She shakes her head, tears still flowing. "I don't know... it all happened so fast."

"Okay, just focus on breathing," Bozer encourages. "Help is on the way."

As they wait, Mac holds Aria's hand, trying to provide some comfort amidst the chaos. The sound of sirens continues to echo in the background, a reminder that help is close. "Stay with us, Aria," Mac urges, his voice steady. "You're going to be okay."

Aria nods slightly, her grip tightening around Mac's hand. "I trust you," she whispers, her voice barely audible.

"We're not going anywhere," Mac promises, glancing at Bozer, who nods in agreement. Together, they remain by her side, ready to face whatever comes next. With a gentle gaze, Aria locked eyes with Mac, concern etched upon her face, and softly uttered, "Are you all right?"

Their story unfolded, weaving through the pages. The tale continued into the realm of Chapter 18.