Unraveling threads

Flame felt the cold air rush past her as she stepped into the hospital corridor, her heart racing. She’d made it through the morning, but the weight of her emotions still hung heavily on her shoulders. She had one goal in mind: to win over the head nurse, Carla. If she could impress her, maybe Dan would notice her more. Maybe he would see her as someone worthy of attention instead of just another troubled girl.

As she approached the nurse's station, she spotted Carla in her crisp white uniform, bustling about with an air of authority. Flame took a deep breath, straightened her back, and walked up to her.

“Hi, Nurse Carla! How are you today?” Flame said, trying to infuse her voice with warmth.

Carla glanced up, her expression neutral. “Flame. I’m busy right now. Can I help you with something?”

Flame’s heart sank a little. “I just wanted to see if there’s anything I could do to help. I want to learn as much as I can while I’m here.”