The ambulance doors slammed shut.
The outside world disappeared behind flashing blue lights and sheets of rain.
Inside, everything became a blur of controlled urgency.
"Blood pressure dropping."
"We need another IV."
"Get those dressings ready."
The paramedics worked around Noah with practiced efficiency, cutting away the remains of his ruined shirt. Only now, under the bright medical lights, did the full extent of his injuries become visible.
Bruises darkened nearly every inch of exposed skin.
Several deep cuts crossed his arms.
His ribs were heavily bruised.
The wound along his side continued to bleed despite the pressure bandages.
One medic looked up toward Aiden.
"How long has he been like this?"
Aiden stared blankly.
"I... I don't know."
"When did he receive these injuries?"
"He..." Aiden swallowed hard. "Throughout the night."
The medic blinked.
"The whole night?"
Aiden nodded.
"He never stopped."
The medic exchanged a quick glance with his partner.
