Danielle was jolted awake by the motion, her eyes fluttering open to see Harold’s profile. His jaw was clenched, his eyes filled with worry as he strode quickly toward the elevator.
“Mr. Chapman…” Danielle’s voice was soft and thick with congestion.
Harold glanced down at her, his tone softening. “You’re awake? Hang in there, we’re almost at the hospital.”
Danielle stared at his face, so close to hers. “I…” She opened her mouth to say something, but Harold cut her off.
He looked down at her, his expression serious. “This isn’t the time to be keeping your distance from me.”
“You’re Niki’s mother and an aunt Raffy cares about. It’s only right that I help you.”
Danielle turned her head, gazing at the night scenery outside the elevator as a complex mix of emotions stirred within her.
The elevator soon reached the ground floor. Harold carried Danielle swiftly to the parking garage, gently placed her in the passenger seat, and draped his own jacket over her.
“Are you cold? Just hold on a little longer. We’ll be at the hospital soon.”
Danielle shook her head, leaning back against the seat and closing her eyes. As the car started, she felt Harold pass her a cup of water. “Drink some of this. You need to rehydrate.”
She took the cup and sipped it slowly, the warm liquid soothing her dry throat. She peeked through her lashes at Harold’s focused profile as he drove, thinking to herself. Maybe she didn’t always have to shut herself off, didn’t always have to refuse the kindness of others.
The car arrived at the hospital quickly, and Harold carried Danielle straight into the emergency room.

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