Confusion

Every time Charlie opened his eyes, he had to stop and think about where he was supposed to be. It never quite added up to him. Occasionally, a face he did not know would be next to his bed. Sometimes it was a nurse or doctor. Sometimes it was someone he was meant to know. This time, he knew he was aboard Carpathia. He was aware that he had died, but now he was alive. He did not see anyone he knew, and the people scurrying about in his room were all dressed as if they were medical professionals. If any of them noticed he was awake, they didn’t acknowledge him as they shouted orders to each other about preparing the gurney, whatever that meant.

Eventually, an older woman with her brown hair done up underneath a cap said, “Oh, Mr. Ashton, you’re back with us. Good. Are you in any pain?”

“No,” he replied. “A sip of water would be nice, though.” Sometimes he felt capable of moving his arms and other times he knew any