I looked at Atlas with concern and said, “Matthew’s petty, so be careful of his retaliation.”

"You're overthinking it," Atlas replied, gesturing for me to return to the emergency room.

When we arrived, my mom asked, “Where’s that scumbag?”

"Gone!" I replied.

The emergency room lights had been on for two hours before they finally went out. A doctor emerged and informed us, "Your dad’s life isn’t in danger anymore, thanks to the timely arrival. However, you must ensure he doesn't get too agitated."

The doctor’s words put us at ease.

After exchanging a few words with the doctor, Atlas instructed me, “Hide this from all outsiders, and just say he hasn’t woken up yet.”

Then, he got my dad a VIP ward and asked my mom to stay with him. That would make others think my dad hadn’t awakened yet, effectively stopping the Murphys from visiting.

My dad wore an oxygen mask when the nurses moved him to his room. He was pale and in a pretty poor condition. Tears welled in his eyes as he looked