August's chest tightened. He pushed past the guards, ignoring their protests.
The crowd erupted into gasps and whispers as the man with the futuristic helmet broke through the barrier, heading straight for Derrick.
When Derrick saw the man stop in front of him, he hesitated, unsure why he'd been singled out. Before he could react, the muffled, modulated voice spoke.
"Derrick."
Derrick's jaw dropped. How did this man know his name?
"Come with me," August voiced with a low but firm tone.
The guards were confused but obedient. They swiftly flanked them as August led Derrick through the corridors toward the ICU. The murmurs of the crowd followed them, but no one dared block their path.
They reached a private ward, and August dismissed the guards. "We need privacy," he stated before locking the door behind them.
