*Shelby*

I woke to a soft and steady beeping, but I found it hard to open my eyes. When I did, the lights were dimmed, and I was only able to make out the bumps of my feet under a mauve-colored blanket.

I tried to move, but my arms felt heavy, lying on the bed. Long tubes were attached to me, but it took me a few moments to realize they were monitors and an IV, and the beeping came from a machine next to my bed, a hospital ...