Out Of Darkness

Chapter Thirteen

Alea

The acrid aroma of hospital disinfectant lingered in the air as I came to consciousness. In a still room, only the rhythmic beeping of the monitor accompanied my heavy breathing. As I opened my eyes cautiously, I squinted to improve the foggy visuals lying before me. I surveyed the desolate hospital room, characterized by its blue and white tones. How long have I been here? Who was responsible for bringing me here?

On a sudden impulse, I felt compelled to place my hand on my abdomen and press against the pulsing region on my chest. I experienced considerable tenderness and winced at the sight of the pain. Struggling to get up from my position, I stepped onto the cold, white tiles, and found myself almost instantly landing back on the bed.

With sharp pain in both my upper body and lower sections, it feels like they're rebelling against my decision to stand. I lay there pathetically, waiting for the pain to wash away. Perhaps waiting for some help by the hospital staff. Staring at the overhead space lit by bright white fluorescent lights, I'm still unclear on the reasons for my arrival at this moment, who is responsible for bringing me here, and how long it's been since I arrived.

I shut my eyelids tight, working to bring back memories of the events that unfolded. That’s when everything dawns on me forcefully. My thoughts began to consume the memories of it all. I couldn’t complete my series of questions, because Juul came in.

"Oh my God, sweetie. I was so worried. How are you feeling? Do I need to call the doctor?" He ran up to me

"Sweetie"

"Or do you want me to get the nurse? Tell me how you are feeling. Are you in any pain?"

"uhm...Juul"

"Oh God, what am I even thinking. Of course you're in pain...." He rambled on.

He exhibits this behavior when he becomes worried.

"Juul!"

"What?" he asked with raised eyebrows

"Please stop rambling. I'm fine. I feel somewhat pain. But I'm fine. How long was I out for" I asked

"Few hours. You can't imagine how worried I've felt. When I found you laying there..." His voice trembled with emotion.

"Do you remember what happened to you?" He asked

I felt tears welling up in my eyes. I absolutely have a clear memory of it. Vivid recollections of details flooded my mind. Matthew had his disgustingly filthy hands on me.

"No," I said in a soft voice.

"I saw the bruises Alea. Don't lie to me."

"I'm telling you the truth. I must have fallen or bumped into something."

He expressed his frustration with a sigh, running his hands through his hair.

"We both know you didn't bump or fell. The Doctors also know. They were going to notify the police, But I asked them to hold off first"

"What? Why? Oh my God. Nothing happened."

"Because It follows standard protocol. You were unconscious, covered in bruises from your chest to your pelvis. Since I brought you in, they asked me all kinds questios"

"Why did you even bring me here in the first place!" I yelled agitated.

"I freaked out, alright! When I couldn't wake you up I started panicking. You were in my arms, barely even breathing properly. I panicked and called an ambulance. I was there when they examined you. I caught sight of everything. Jesus Alea. I caught sight of everything, and the doctors indicated a potential assault may have occurred"