Chanter 24

24

Anna

I rushed through the white hallways of the hospital, the sterile environment a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions churning within me. My hands fidgeted nervously, the rhythmic sound of my footsteps echoing my anxiety.

"What has he done again?" I murmured to myself, the weight of past missteps haunting the present. I couldn't shake the fear that my father had delved into another bout of reckless behavior. I hoped against hope that it wasn't another borrowing spree to fuel a gambling addiction. I couldn't handle another debt from my father's end, especially not now.

As I neared the reception desk, the tension in the air grew palpable. The nurse behind the counter looked up, her expression a mix of sympathy and formality.

"Mrs. Howard?" she inquired, confirming my identity.

I nodded, my voice tight. "Yes. How is my father? What happened?"

She hesitated, choosing her words carefully. "He's in critical condition. The police are here. They would like to speak with you."

Dre