Echoes of Resilience

32

A full week had passed since Isabella's previous visit to the jail where Shepherd was being held, with the intention of finalizing their agreement. However, upon her return, she was met with a scene of chaos and unease. The news of Derek Shepherd's tragic demise, having been fatally stabbed in his cell, reverberated through the facility, leaving a palpable sense of shock and disbelief in its wake. Adding to the already perplexing circumstances was the conspicuous absence of his former partner, Preston Burke, whose whereabouts remained a mystery, casting a shadow of suspicion over the entire situation.

In the midst of the turmoil, Isabella, visibly perturbed, inquired, "Do you mean to tell me that you have no clue about Burke's location?" Her frustration was evident as she massaged her temples in exasperation.

The guard, with a solemn expression, responded, "No, Ma'am. He's not within the facility; it appears he has managed to escape. We found this in his cell." He handed her a torn piece of paper bearing a list of names, with Meredith Grey's name prominently at the top.

Realization dawned on Isabella as she swiftly took charge, "We need law enforcement at Addison Montgomery's residence immediately! When was the last visual confirmation of Preston Burke?"

"This morning at roll call, about four hours ago," the guard responded.

"What about Shepherd?"

"Same time."

"As soon as the time of death is figured out, I want to know!" Isabella declared as she briskly exited the jail, swiftly dialing Addison's phone number.

"Hello?" Addison answered, slightly out of breath, prompting concern to well up in Isabella.

"Addison? It's Isabella, the prosecutor on Meredith's case. Is everything alright?"

"Yes, everything's fine, sorry I'm just cleaning up after lunch," Addison said, confusion flooding throughout her veins at the panic in the prosecutor's voice.

"Addison, I just sent the police over to watch your house and I need you to lock your doors and not open them for anyone," Isabella blurted out in a panic.

"What's going on?"

"Derek was just found stabbed to death in his cell and Burke is nowhere to be found. In his cell was a list of names, Meredith was at the top. We don't know where he is or his plan, but I'm afraid that Meredith is in danger," Isabella explained urgently.

Addison's heart raced as she processed the gravity of the situation. The news sent a chill down her spine, realizing the imminent threat looming over her friend. She quickly secured her home, her mind racing with questions and fears. Isabella's words echoed in her mind, painting a grim picture of uncertainty and danger.

As Addison awaited further updates, she couldn't shake the feeling of dread that enveloped her. The sudden turn of events had thrust her into a whirlwind of emotions, her thoughts consumed by the safety of Meredith and the unfolding mystery surrounding Derek and Burke. The weight of the situation hung heavy in the air, casting a shadow of fear and apprehension over Addison's once peaceful day. "Meredith? Sweet girl, I need to talk to you," Addison's voice echoed through the room, summoning Meredith. Within moments, the blonde materialized before her.

"Addie? What's wrong?" Meredith inquired as Addison enveloped her in a comforting embrace. "You're scaring me." Meredith said as she pulled back to look at Addison's face.

"Derek's dead, Meredith. He can't harm you or anyone else now," Addison reassured her, planting a gentle kiss on her temple.
Meredith, her voice barely audible, questioned, "Then why do you seem so frightened?" Uncertain if she truly desired the answer.