Lucy's world was a haze of pain and confusion when she awoke in the hospital. Her body felt heavy, her head foggy. Machines beeped around her, and a dull ache throbbed where she had been shot.
Tim was at her side, his face pale and eyes red from lack of sleep. As soon as he saw her wake, his relief was palpable.
"Lucy!" he choked out, grabbing her hand. "You're awake. Thank God."
Lucy tried to speak, but her voice was barely a whisper. Her mind was struggling to catch up with what had happened.
"You were shot," Tim explained, his voice trembling. "You've been in a coma for three days."
Lucy's heart sank. She had been so focused on her work and personal struggles that she had never anticipated this level of danger. The realization of what could have happened to her—and what might still be at risk—hit her like a tidal wave.
