With groggy awareness, Donald realized he wasn't in the black hellhole that haunted his dreams. "Edie, you're here," Donald said as he removed his oxygen mask.
"Yes, it's me," Edie said, feeling relieved. "I'm going to get the doctor. I'll be right back."
Edie started to get up from the bed, and Donald grabbed her arm. "Please, stay with me," he said, pleading with her.
Donald's hands were sweaty and shaking, but he held a firm grip. Edie gazed up at him. "You look terrible, and your face is so pale. You need help!" she said, staring at Donald, looking very worried.
A slight grimace of pain flickered across his pale face. "Do you know? About my..." Leaving his sentence unfinished, he managed a smile.
"Lie down. You're still too weak. I want you to conserve your energy and regain your strength," Edie said, and there was a touch of anxiety in her voice.
