Page 24 of Alluring Adventure

We make slow progress, mainly because I have to keep stopping. Suzie gave me some water and an energy bar whilst we waited for me to be hauled up, but I’m still starting to feel like my batteries are empty. I keep stumbling and feel exhausted and weak.

As the path gets wider two of the rescuers hook their arms with mine and guide me safely down. I don’t speak, although they keep asking me questions. My mind is with Ols.Oh shit, I don’t even know what to do when we get down. Will one of them give me a lift?

It’s nearly dark by the time we make it to the carpark. I am directed to an ambulance and someone asks me the same questions I have already been asked three times. I keep repeating that I’m fine, but for some reason, nobody wants to listen to me.

They insist on driving me to the hospital to get checked out and I refuse until they agree to take me to the same one where Ols is. I lie back on the gurney so the paramedic can strap me in. As we roll through the dark countryside, I pull Oliver’s phone from my pocket. There is twenty percent battery left. I open the message app and type:

Me

Hey, it’s Keeley. I’m on the way to A&E in Keswick. Apparently, that’s where they have flown Oliver. Not sure if anyone has told you yet and I thought you should know.

The reply is immediate.

Hannah

How are you???

Me

I’m fine.

I want to write so much more but I don’t think I should break the news about Ols’ injuries via text.

Hannah

We are at the hospital with Ols. We’ll see you when you get here.

I sigh in relief. At least he’s not alone.

When I’m handed over to the A&E staff I’m asked the same questions again, and I’m starting to get a little testy.

“Keeley,” a voice calls out just as I’m about to snap at a young male nurse that I’m fine.

“Marisa, what are you doing here?” I’m stunned.

“You can’t be back here,” the nurse tries to stop her.

“You listen to me, dude, my husband works here, and this woman has just been through a near death experience. Sheneeds her friend there.” Marisa pushes him out of the way. He looks very unsure of himself and I have to grin because he’s probably wondering if her husband is one of the hospital bosses. He isn’t, he works in the accounts team. But neither Marisa nor I will divulge that information.

“Seriously, what are you doing here?”

“Tommy called and asked me to bring you some clothes to change into.” She holds out a small plastic bag, her eyes filled with concern. I don’t know what to say, but then the pesky tears start again. First one, then another, and soon the whole floodgate bursts open. I was so strong earlier, but now I can’t hold back the emotions any longer.

“Hey, hey.” She pulls me into a hug.

“Thank you,” I whisper.

“You’re welcome. What are friends for?” she gives me a wink.

“There she is,” another voice calls out and Hannah and Jake are speed walking to us.

“You can’t all be here,” the nurse protests but Marisa just shushes him and he leaves us to it, mumbling under his breath.

“Oh my god, I’m so glad you’re okay!” Hannah pulls me into a hug. Her eyes are red rimmed.

“Where’s Ols?” I ask.

“He’s having all sorts of tests. They suggested we go home and come back in the morning, but no way.” She shakes her head.

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