**nine hours ago**
Erick heart constricted as Araya's tears fell, each one a reminder of the pain she had endured. He pushed the gas pedal harder, driving faster, the sound of her cries breaking his heart.
"Don't worry, Araya," he muttered softly as he gripped her arms with his left hand, his right firmly on the wheel. "I'll get you to the hospital. Nothing bad will happen to you, I promise." His eyes flicked to his watch—11:30—and then back to the road ahead.
Araya's cries of pain melted his heart. It was as if he had gone back in time to when he had caged and tormented her. The thought made him sick, his stomach churning with guilt.
He rubbed her temple gently, pulling her closer, trying to offer her some comfort as he pressed harder on the gas.
---
As soon as the car stopped, nurses and doctors rushed to meet them, quickly transferring Araya to a stretcher and pushing her forward. Erick stayed close, his voice never leaving her side, offering words of reassurance.