The fluorescent lights above flickered as the emergency ward bustled with controlled chaos. Ellen lay pale and still on a gurney as it sped down the hospital corridor, the wheels squeaking against the polished tile. The beeping of machines merged with the muffled voices of doctors barking orders. Scarlett, still drenched and shivering, clutched her mother's hand, her tear-streaked face a mask of desperation.
"Mom, stay with me... just stay with me," she whispered, voice cracking.
The nurse closest to her offered a gentle touch on her shoulder. "We'll do everything we can. Please, step back, Miss."
Scarlett resisted for a beat, reluctant to let go, but finally released her grip, allowing the team to wheel Ellen through double doors marked Critical Care. The doors hissed shut, leaving her alone, cold, and soaked in river water.
