Diego’s eyes fluttered open, the sharp scent of antiseptic and the steady beeping of monitors greeting him. The world around him was a blur of white light and muffled sounds.
As his vision cleared, he realized he was lying in a hospital bed, his head wrapped tightly in bandages. The dull ache in his skull reminded him that he had been in an accident, though the details were hazy.
He tried to sit up abruptly, but pain shot through his head and ribs, forcing him back down with a groan. The sound caught the attention of a doctor who was speaking quietly to a nurse nearby. The doctor rushed to his side, placing a calming hand on his shoulder.
“Mr. Morales, please relax,” the doctor said firmly but gently. “You’ve been through a traumatic accident. We need to check your vitals before you tr
