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He nodded. “Yeah, the fire department was already there. Tobias was unconscious.”
There were so many questions, but Tori didn’t want to say anything out loud that would give her answers she didn’t want to hear. “Do you think he really swerved into the other lane?”
Eric nodded. “By the tread marks on the road, it was obvious he did.”
They lapsed into silence for a while until Leah and Allison stood. “We’re going to go get coffee,” Allison said. “I preordered so we won’t be but a minute. Going to the coffee shop across the street.”
“No, you both should stay,” Tori said. “I’ll go. Family should stay.”
Mimi gave her a droll look. She’d finally stopped crying and sat next to Mr. Hamilton. “That’s a good idea. She should go.” It was obvious she didn’t mean just for coffee.
It wasn’t the time for pettiness, so Tori ignored her.
“Thank you, sweetheart,” Mrs. Hamilton said with a tenuous smile.
When she returned half an hour later, there hadn’t been any news yet. Just as she sat, however, the doors opened and the same nurse walked out. Immediately, everyone got to their feet and rushed toward her.
Tori often wondered how medical professionals could maintain serenity in the face of so much travail. The nurse looked to each of them without expression. Other than seeming to be searching for the words to begin, she didn’t give any indication of what the news was.
“Mr. Hamilton is out of surgery and in recovery. Everything went well. The doctors were able to assess the injuries and repair any damage. We will know more in twenty-four hours.”
She waited for the words to sink in. “They went ahead and took care of the internal bleeding. The doctors had to remove his spleen.”
“When can we see him?” Mrs. Hamilton asked. “Will he regain consciousness soon?”
The nurse shook her head. “Not for a bit. The doctors feel it’s best to keep him asleep until the swelling fully goes down. Only two people would normally be allowed to see him tonight. In about an hour or so.” She met Luke’s gaze. “I’ll make an exception so that you can see your brother.”
Luke nodded. “Thank you.”
“So when can I see him?” Mimi asked, not bothering to identify her relationship to Tobias. “I’ve been here for hours.”
Everyone’s reactions varied from flabbergasted to annoyed. The nurse, however, remained the consummate professional. “After the initial twenty-four hours, we will reassess, Miss.”
Mimi huffed and went back to sit. “That’s ridiculous.”
When Eric shifted, Tori realized she’s been hanging on to his arm, her fingers digging into it as if he were a lifeboat.
“Can we continue to get updates tonight?” Tori asked then clasped her lips tight. She’d not meant to ask, but since no one else did, she took it upon herself.
The nurse nodded. “Yes, I work the night shift. I will come out periodically to let you know of any changes.” She motioned to a phone on a small desk. “You’re welcome to pick up the phone and call the nurses station if you have any other questions. We will address any concerns you may have.”
She left, promising to return for Luke and his parents and everyone went back to sitting and waiting.
“I’m sure he’ll recover fine. He’s strong and still relatively young,” Eric told her, patting her back awkwardly.
The mood in the room didn’t lighten. Although it was good news that Tobias had gotten through the surgery, there was still the fact he’d be kept unconscious.
Leah stretched. “I’m going to go home to shower and put on some sweats. I’ll bring back a couple pillows and blankets.”
“Good idea,” Allison said. “I’ll do the same and bring back some snacks.” She looked to Tori. “Want to come with me?”
Tori shook her head. She couldn’t fathom moving in that moment. Things could change without notice. “No, I’ll stay.”
Understanding, Allison nodded. “All right. I’ll bring you back a blanket and a pillow.”
“Thank you.”
Mimi jerked around. “I’ll go with Leah.”
