The abandoned hospital rose from the rich purple-black night like a forsaken fortress — a labyrinth of abandoned wings and dimly glowing corridors.
Nico turned off the headlights and pressed a hidden button; a rust-covered gate opened just enough for their vehicle to squeeze through.
"It's Harper Heights… just like you said." Nico whispered, knuckles white on the wheel.
"It's the only place we have left." Theo said quietly, rich resolve battling fear in his voice.
He pressed Ava close against him and opened the back door. His silhouette — strong, dramatic, unyielding — crossed the barren gravel path toward the hospital's entrance. Inside, a single light glimmered through a third-floor window.
"That's the doctor." Theo said under his breath. "Dr. Reyes… the only person I trust."
Nico fell in step beside him, pistol at the ready, protecting Theo and Ava with his life. The thunder rumbled above them, rich and deep — a dramatic soundtrack to their midnight pilgrimage.
The hospital's entrance opened with a piercing creak, and a woman's silhouette appeared — Dr. Reyes — a rich, calm presence in a world gone mad.
"It's Ava." Theo said quietly, nearly begging. "Please… save her."
Dr. Reyes nodded without a word. There was no time for questions or doubts. She turned, letting the rich glow from her office illuminate a path forward — a path that might lead to life… or death.