Chapter 5 - The Intruder in the Ward
“Move aside! I am her father! Let me through!”
A frantic, hoarse voice screamed down the corridor, accompanied by the sounds of hospital security guards shouting warnings.
Dr. Vance looked up from the gurney. “Security, lock these doors! No visitors in the trauma sector—”
Before the automated doors could slide shut, a heavy shoulder slammed against the safety glass, shattering the electronic lock with a violent crack. Arthur Sterling burst into the trauma room.
He didn't look like the polished, untouchable corporate director who managed international freight distribution. His tie was ripped off, his white dress shirt was stained with mud and sweat, and his eyes were wide, bloodshot, and wild with absolute terror.
“Maya!” Sterling screamed, lunging toward the gurney.
Two security guards tackled him instantly, pinning him against the heart-monitor rack with a loud crash that sent medical trays spilling across the floor.
“Get off me! That’s my daughter!” Sterling sobbed, thrashing violently beneath the guards’ grip. His gaze locked onto me across the room, his chest heaving as he pointed a shaking finger at my face. “You... you’re the nurse! You work with Moretti!”
I stepped away from the gurney, my heart hammering against my ribs as I stared at the desperate man.
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“Mr. Sterling, you need to calm down right now or security will remove you,” Dr. Vance warned, stepping between him and the patient.
“You don't understand!” Sterling shrieked, his voice cracking into a raw, desperate sob as he struggled against the guards. “They didn't just come for the money! They knew she found the manifests! If you save her, they’re going to finish what they started tonight!”
