Chapter 12: To Her Rescue
Ethan, using his contacts, had the police track Maria down. They found her in Atlantic.
"Baby, I have some news... but it's not good," Ethan said softly. He had been watching Mara all night, knowing she wouldn't rest until she heard something.
Mara turned to him, her eyes desperate. "Just tell me, please."
Ethan sighed, pulling her close. "They found her unconscious at home. She's in the hospital now, but..." He hesitated, hating the words he had to say next. "The doctors... they're not very hopeful."
Mara's breath stops. Her knees weakened, and before she could stop herself, she collapsed into Ethan's arms, sobbing.
Ethan held her tightly, his heart breaking at the sight of her pain. For the first time, he felt helpless. He could control so many things, and fix so many problems... but he couldn't take away this pain.
And that hurt more than anything. "I want to be with her... please, take me to her," Mara sobbed, gripping Ethan's shirt as if holding on to him would keep her from falling apart.
Ethan cupped her face gently, wiping away her tears with his thumbs. "Baby, listen to me," he said softly. "I'll take you to her, but you must be strong. She's going to need you now more than ever."
Mara nodded, trying to steady her breathing, but the fear in her chest wouldn't go away.
Without wasting another second, Ethan grabbed his keys. "Let's go."
Mara didn't hesitate. She slipped on her coat and followed him out the door, praying with everything in her that Maria would still be holding on when they got there.