The Transfer

Chapter 13: Waiting for Dawn

3rd person's POV:

Tim sat in the hospital waiting room, his leg bouncing with restless energy. The lights overhead cast a harsh glow, emphasizing the lines of worry etched on his face. Harper and Nolan came for a short period of time, offering their support and checking in for updates between their calls, but there has been no news yet.

Angela and Wesley sat nearby, their hands intertwined in silent solidarity. The usually vibrant Angela looked pale and drained, her eyes fixed on the double doors leading to the emergency room. Sergeant Grey stood by the window, his expression unreadable, staring out into the night.

Tim's mind replayed the events of the evening over and over. He could still feel the cold metal of the handcuffs in his hand as he subdued Caleb, the relief and terror when he found Lucy. The image of her bruised, bloodied face haunted him, fueling his determination to see her safe and healthy again.

After what felt like an eternity, a doctor in scrubs approached the group. Everyone stood up, hearts pounding in unison.

"Family of Lucy Chen?" The doctor asked, looking around at the anxious faces.

"We are her family." Tim said, stepping forward, his voice trembling. "How is she?"

The doctor gave a reassuring smile. "She's stable. She suffered a concussion, several bruises, and a few fractured ribs. We also believe that she was raped, there are a couple of internal bruises and some on her inner thighs, but she's going to be okay. She's a fighter."

A collective sigh of relief swept through the room. Angela leaned into Wesley, tears of relief streaming down her cheeks. Sergeant Grey nodded, a flicker of relief crossing his stern features.

"Can we see her?" Tim asked worriedly.

"Yes, but only one at a time for now. She is currently awake, but very weak and she needs rest." The doctor paused, a shadow crossing his face. "There's something else I need to discuss later. We are obliged to tell someone in these types of situations but who we tell is up to Lucy."

Tim felt a lump form in his throat. He glanced at Angela and Wesley, who both nodded encouragingly.

"You go first." Angela said softly. "She'll want to see you."

Tim took a deep breath and followed the doctor down the hallway. The smell of the hospital made his stomach churn, but he pushed through it, focusing on Lucy. They reached her room, and the doctor opened the door, gesturing for Tim to enter.

Lucy lay in the hospital bed, looking small and fragile against the white sheets. Her face was full of bruises, and her eyes were closed, but the steady rise and fall of her chest was a sign she would be okay.

He approached her bedside slowly, his heart aching at the sight of her injuries. He gently took her hand in his, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. "Hey, Lucy." He whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "It's Tim. You're safe now. We're all here for you."

Lucy stirred slightly, her eyes fluttering open. She blinked a few times before her gaze focused on Tim. A weak smile tugged at her lips. "Tim..." she murmured, her voice barely audible.

"I'm here." He said, squeezing her hand gently. "You're going to be okay."

Tears filled Lucy's eyes, spilling over her cheeks. "Thank you," she whispered. "For everything."

Tim shook his head, his own eyes filling with tears. "You don't have to thank me, Lucy. I'll always be here for you."

The doctor stepped in, clearing his throat gently. And so did the others. "Lucy, I need to talk to you about something important. You can choose who you want me to tell."