Ethan’s Panic

Ethan Blackwood's hand trembled, and the glass of milk slipped from his grip, shattering on the lawn. In a single stride, he rushed forward, kneeling to scoop Lily Anderson up from behind without a second thought.

His large hands pressed tightly against her body, unintentionally amplifying her pain.

"Ah…"

Lily bit her lip, but a cry of pain still escaped her. Her once-flushed face quickly turned ghostly pale, sweat pouring down her forehead as the light drained from her eyes.

"What's wrong?!" Ethan demanded, his voice tense with urgency.

Still crouching, he held Lily on his lap, supporting her weight as best as possible.

"I'm fine… ugh…" Lily tried to suppress the pain, but her features contorted with agony. Large drops of sweat blurred her vision as they streamed down her face.