Chapter 125

I sank into the dark depths of the sea. Strangely, I didn't feel cold. Instead, there was a comforting warmth, like I had returned to my mother's embrace. It was so soothing I didn't want to open my eyes. I just wanted to stay asleep right there, in her arms. ... "Her blood pressure's crashing! Start transfusion—400 milliliters!" "Defibrillator! Hurry up! Clear!" "Move aside! Prep for surgery!" "Ari, please! I'm sorry! Ari, don't scare me like this—how could you do this to yourself?" "Ari, please wake up! Ari... "Don't hold me back! Ari…" The noise was overwhelming. All I wanted was to sleep. I tried to say something, but suddenly, a surge of blood spilled from my mouth. "She's coughing up blood!" Did I just cough out blood? Did it mean I was still alive? I struggled to open my eyes—and somehow, I did. Above me, bright, glaring lights stabbed into my vision, and chaotic, frantic voices surrounded me. "Ari, stay with us." A voice echoed in my mind, tugging me back. Throug