Chapter 6: Aftermath
The ship’s infirmary was calm, efficient, almost detached from the chaos outside.
Lily lay wrapped in blankets, her breathing steady but fragile. Bruises marked her side. Daniel sat beside her, his own injuries forgotten.
For a while, it was all medical routines.
Then she woke.
“Dad?”
“I’m here.”
“You jumped.”
He nodded.
“You didn’t think.”
“No.”
A knock came at the door. A crew member entered, holding something wrapped carefully.
Rosie.
Damaged, soaked—but still there.
Lily touched it gently, then looked at her father.
“I thought I lost you.”
Daniel’s voice broke.
“You didn’t,” he said. “I’m right here.”
She held his hand tighter.
