In a daze, I felt someone lift my body onto some sort of carrier that kept moving up and down. I tried but failed to open my eyes to see where I was.
“How is she?”
“Ms. Tanner is in a dire state and running a high fever. Not only has she lost too much blood, but she has also contracted a viral infection. She needs urgent medical attention, but our plane doesn’t have enough supply for her O-type blood.”
“Please make sure she’s okay. Do whatever it takes.”
“Yes, Sir.”
Who’s talking? I tried to open my eyes, but my effort was once again in vain.
“Christopher… Christopher…” I called out his name, wanting to hear his voice to make sure that he was okay. I needed to know that he was safe and sound and tended to medically.
“Don’t you worry. Chris is safe now. You, on the other hand, have lost too much blood. You’re in a critical condition. You need to get better so you can see Chris again, right?”
That’s right. We have been rescued. I need to rest and recuperate so that I’ll have the energy to look after Christopher.
I was dreaming again. I knew this was not real because I saw my mother, whom I had not dreamed about since I turned ten. Deep down, I even resisted addressing her as my mom. But now she appeared in my dreams again.
The image of her was clearer than ever. Still looking young and beautiful, she stood in front of me as though she was one of my best friends. She took my hand in hers and smiled brightly at me. “Eve, you’re all grown up now. That’s really good.”
I wanted to speak, but I couldn’t utter a single word. Instead, I looked at her aloofly.
“Eve, you have no idea how much I’ve missed you over the years. I’m so sorry that you have had a rough life. But I had my reasons for leaving you many years ago. Can you please forgive me?”
Should I forgive her? Is it fair that she gets to abandon me for her own benefit? I stared at her for a few moments before bursting into maniacal laughter. This is a dream, after all. Why should I be so serious? She can say whatever she wants. I only need to lend her an ear that’s all.
When I awoke to a peaceful piano melody, I tried to trace the source of the ethereal and graceful tune. It was so beautiful that it almost brought tears to my eyes. I started to move my fingers and finally found the energy to sit myself up. My surrounding was pitch black, and I couldn’t see anything in the dark. It must be nighttime.
Trying to get my bearings, I realized I was tucked into a soft blanket with drips attached to my arm. Just then, my memories started rushing back to me — I had been on a honeymoon trip with Christopher. Our ship had sunk, and we drifted onto a deserted island where we were rescued at last.
“Christopher!” I cried out. But there came no response.
I fumbled about on the wall for a switch for the light in the room. Instead, I found a call button and kept pressing it.
Before long, my door was pushed open, and someone came over to check on my drip. “How are you feeling? Do you feel any discomfort?” a male voice rang in front of me.
I remembered this voice. It belonged to Darius. I shook my head. “I’m okay, apart from feeling weak all over. Darius, was it you who rescued us?”
“Yes. We received Chris’ distress signal and found you guys. Thankfully we got there in time.” The man’s voice shook a little at the mention of the incident.
“Where’s Christopher? Is he okay? Is he awake now?” I asked anxiously.
“Don’t worry. His condition has stabilized. It’ll just take a while for him to come to,” Darius explained.
“Can I see him now?” I asked carefully while breathing a sigh of relief. Despite being reassured that the man was fine, I wanted to see him with my own eyes for my peace of mind.
“I’m afraid not. Your body is still too weak after all the blood loss. You’re going to have to rest up. Getting up and moving about is not an option,” Darius patiently declined my request.
At once, I turned disappointed. “Are you sure he’s okay? You’re not lying to me? The wound on his lower abdomen looked really bad. I’m worried.”
Darius was amused by my incessant questions. He smiled slightly and said, “Why would I lie to you? Chris is my little brother, of course I’ll make sure he’s okay. I assure you, he really is no longer in danger. You should get some rest. When you’re better tomorrow, I’ll bring you to see him.”
