The weight of his words crashed down on her like a tidal wave. Ava froze, her body trembling as her mind struggled to process the severity of the situation.
The doctor offered a sympathetic look. "I'll handle the paperwork for the transfer. We'll do everything we can to ensure he's stable for the journey."
He walked away, leaving Ava standing there, her legs feeling like they might give out beneath her. She gripped the wall for support, her vision blurring with fresh tears.
Ava inhaled deeply, willing herself to steady her trembling hands. "I need to stay strong and handle this situation. He needs me." She clenched her fists, pushing down the fear threatening to consume her.
Her fingers moved swiftly to dial Justin's number. The ringing seemed to stretch on forever before his familiar voice finally came through.
"Justin, I need help," she said urgently. "Dylan was stabbed." She forced herself to recount everything the doctor had told her.