Chapter 6 - Recovery and Investigation
Aaliyah's eyes fluttered open, greeted by the sterile hospital room. Damon's concerned face came into focus.
"Hey," he said softly. "Welcome back."
Aaliyah's throat felt dry.
"Water," she whispered.
Damon handed her a glass.
As she sipped, Aaliyah's memories flooded back.
"The accident...?"
"You're safe now," Damon reassured.
Avery entered the room.
"Damon, I've arranged for additional security," Avery said.
"Good call," Damon nodded.
Avery's eyes shifted to Aaliyah.
"I've also contacted Jordan. She's on her way."
Aaliyah's eyes widened.
"No, don't—"
"Too late," Avery said. "Jordan's worried sick."
Damon's gaze narrowed.
"Aaliyah, what's going on? Who's after you?"
Aaliyah hesitated.
"I...can't say."
Damon's expression turned resolute.
"I'll find out, Aaliyah. You're safe with me."
Meanwhile, in the hospital corridor, Damon's investigator, Rachel, awaited his call.
"Damon, what's the situation?" Rachel asked.
"Aaliyah Wilson, Jordan's friend," Damon explained. "Involved in some trouble. I need you to dig up everything."
Rachel's tone turned serious.
"Consider it done."
As Rachel began her investigation, Damon returned to Aaliyah's side.
"I'll get to the bottom of this," he promised.
Aaliyah's eyes locked onto Damon's.
Why did she trust this stranger?
---
NEW GEM HOSPITAL, CARA'S WARD
Victor's eyes gazed down at Cara, her frail form a stark contrast to her once vibrant self. The hospital room's soft beeping and Cara's labored breathing filled the silence.
"Nurse," Victor called, his voice low.
The nurse hurried in.
"Any change?" Victor asked.
"Stable, sir. But we need to monitor her closely."
Victor nodded, his jaw clenched.
Cara's hand stirred, her eyes fluttering open.
"Victor..."
"I'm here, Cara," he said, taking her hand.
"Aaliyah..." she whispered.
Victor's expression darkened.
"Don't worry, Cara. I'll handle Aaliyah."
Cara's gaze pleaded.
"Protect...her."
Victor's voice softened.
"I will, Cara. I promise."
After the nurse administered Cara's medication, Victor stepped outside, dialing a number.
"Noah," Victor said, his voice firm. "I need an update on Aaliyah."
Overseas, Noah answered, his voice laced with static.
"Father, we've tracked Aaliyah to a hospital. She was in an accident."
Victor's grip on the phone tightened.
"Who's with her?"
Noah hesitated but said,"Damon Drakeford and his friends," Noah replied.
Victor's eyes narrowed.
"Keep me informed. I want Aaliyah secured."
Noah hesitated.
"Victor, there's more. Damon's investigating Aaliyah's past."
Victor's face turned cold.
"Stop him, Noah. Whatever it takes."
---