CHAPTER NINETY – FRIENDS WERE HURT

At the hospital, Rebecca paced the waiting room, sick with worry and guilt. This was her fault. Her troubles had put Zaya in danger. After what felt like an eternity, a doctor approached. "Are you here for Zaya Ahmadi?" Rebecca nodded, afraid to speak. "She's out of surgery and stable. She has a concussion, some broken ribs, and various cuts and bruises, but she's going to be okay." Relief washed over Rebecca, quickly followed by renewed guilt. "Can I see her?" The doctor nodded. "She's still groggy from the anesthesia, but you can sit with her." In the hospital room, Rebecca gasped at the sight of Zaya. Her face was swollen and bruised, her arm in a cast. "Oh, Zaya," Rebecca whispered, tears streaming down her face. "I'm so sorry. This is all my fault." Zaya's eyes fluttered open. "Rebecca?" she mumbled. "I'm here," Rebecca said, gently taking her uninjured hand. "You're going to be okay." Zaya tried to focus. "Wasn't... random," she slurred. "They... message for you." Rebe