the fire between us

chapter 45

Content Warning: This narrative contains intense and potentially distressing themes, including a car accident, panic, and injuries. Readers who may be sensitive to topics related to trauma, emergency situations, or physical distress should approach with caution. I encourage you to prioritize your well-being and take breaks if needed. Remember, it's okay to step away and take care of yourself. ⚠️

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After the police leave, their questions lingering in the air, I let out a long breath I didn't realize I was holding. My heart is still racing, my thoughts a jumble of everything that's happened and what's still to come.

Gert-Anne gives my shoulder another gentle squeeze before stepping back. "You did great, Y/N," she says softly, her eyes full of warmth.

"Thank you," I whisper, my voice small but filled with gratitude. Having her beside me made the whole process a little less terrifying.

After Gert-Anne's comforting words, we make our way back into Marcus's room. As I step through the door, I see Emma and Kjell-Erik sitting beside Marcus. Their expressions are a mixture of worry and relief, and they offer small smiles when they see me enter.

I move quietly to a chair next to Marcus, feeling the exhaustion weighing on me. As soon as I sit down, the door swings open again, and a doctor steps into the room, her expression calm but professional.

"You two are free to leave," she says, addressing both Marcus and me. Her voice is gentle, and though the news is good, I can't shake the knot of worry still tangled in my chest.

Marcus glances at me, his tired smile returning, and I nod, though my mind drifts immediately to Nora and Martinus. They're still in surgery, and the thought of leaving while they're not out yet feels... wrong.

"Can we check on them before we go?" Marcus asks, his voice rough but steady. His concern matches mine, and I feel a wave of gratitude that we're on the same page.

The doctor's expression softens slightly, and she nods. "I'll check with the surgical team and let you know as soon as we have an update."

We sit in silence for what feels like an eternity, the soft hum of hospital machines the only sound in the room. Emma fidgets with her hands, and Kjell-Erik stares ahead, deep in thought. My heart races, every second stretching longer than the last as we wait for news.

Finally, the door opens again, and the doctor reappears, her face somber. I feel my chest tighten instantly. She steps inside, her voice quiet and careful as she speaks. "I'm afraid it won't be possible to see them today."

The weight of her words sinks in, and I can feel my pulse quicken. The thought of leaving without seeing Nora and Martinus makes my stomach twist.

"But we'll call you as soon as it's possible," she adds, her eyes kind but filled with sympathy. "The surgeries are still ongoing, and the team is doing everything they can. I promise we'll keep you updated."

I nod, biting my lip to keep the tears at bay. Marcus squeezes my hand gently, his strength giving me something to hold on to, even as the uncertainty gnaws at me.

"Thank you," I manage to whisper, my voice barely holding steady.

"We'll wait for your call," Marcus says, his voice calm, though I can hear the worry beneath the surface.

The doctor offers a small nod before stepping out of the room, leaving us in the heavy silence once more.

"Let's get you guys home," Gert-Anne says gently, breaking the silence. Marcus nods, his exhaustion evident, though there's still that flicker of worry in his eyes.