Jonathan stirred awake in a hospital bed as the sterile scent of antiseptic filling his nostrils. The bright overhead lights were almost blinding, and he squinted against their intensity. Confusion washed over him as fragments of his memory of Laura began to resurface—the woman with the knife, the pain, and then darkness.
He took a deep breath, but it was shallow and painful. Panic tightened his chest as he slowly scanned the room, searching for familiar faces. The rhythmic beeping of machines surrounded him and it was a reminder of his fragile state. He hoped to see Laura’s comforting smile, her presence always a source of strength for him. He needed her now more than ever.
“Laura…” he whispered hoarsely, but the sound barely escaped his lips. The room was empty except for the medical e
