[CHAPTER 8]

"Shit!" he cursed waking up at dimly lit hospital room. It was empty and he was glad about it. He glanced at the clock, it was night already.

What has happened? He had no recollection of what happened after he finished photographing. He was very confused by this fact. But there was nothing he'd change.

Sighing he tried to sit up slowly though, but suddenly a sharp pain shooted up his spine jolting through his brain.

"OW!" he yelled not realising how loud it actually came out.

This was freaking him out. He hoped it has nothing to do with past, even though deep inside he felt it was.
"Oh god" he sighed trying not to think about what can happen if his worst fear comes true.

"Hey sugar" the door suddenly was open and Alexx came in. "Are you feelin better?"

"I think so. But what happened? I don't remember." he asked still puzzled.

"You suffered minor sun stroke plus your migraine was acting up. You passed out."

"That explains pretty much"

But Alexx had something else to say. "Ryan there is something else I wanted to talk about with you." she said becoming serious. It made Ryan suspicious.

"Why didn't you say anything that you got shot during patrols?" she asked looking right into his eyes.

"I just... Well it didn't matter... Until now, obviously. I know I should but it felt unnecessary."

"But honey, you do realise how serious is your condition. What if something occured and we needed information?"

"I never thought about that. I... I just didn't want to relive all what happened that day." he turned his gaze away.

"I know it's hard for you. But your condition has worsened. The bullet fragments have shifted. You need surgery asap." she said it looking into Ryan's eyes. He looked completely frightened.

"Alexx, I'm scared. I don't want to loose anything. Back then I was already frightened enough. But now I just... I can't..." his voice trailed as the tears started to roll down his cheeks leaving silver trails.

"Aww baby." Alexx hugged Ryan holding him tightly as the lone star fell down the sky outside and few more blinked towards the ocean.