Tracy felt Aldon and Hunter sitting beside her as she lay there, while others came and went. She felt the days drift by and her words swirl around her just out of reach, as she lay immobile in the silence, aware.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Tracy lifted a finger, slowly. Did anyone see it? She had no idea. A little later on, her eyelids fluttered. They had to flutter at precisely the right moment, thought Tracy, or others would not realize she was returning.
“It’s a miracle, it’s a miracle,” were the next words Tracy heard as she actually opened her eyes. The light of the room was shocking and painful.
“She’s back, she’s back.” A voice beside her grew louder.
Tracy didn’t want to turn her head yet to look and see who it was. She had to wake up slowly, take tiny steps as she was welcomed back into her life.
“Tracy”—another voice was now speaking to her softly—“you’re going to be okay. You’ve made it. You’re strong, you’re healthy. Everyone in the city has been praying for you.”
Tracy licked her dry lips slowly. Where had she been? Where was she now?
“You’re in the intensive care unit of a hospital, Tracy,” the soft voice continued.
Tracy turned slowly and saw both Aldon and Hunter sitting beside her.
“Ashley?” was the first thing Tracy said very slowly.
“Ashley’s been taken into custody. We have a full confession,” Aldon gently responded.
Hunter leaned closer, looking into Tracy’s eyes. “You solved the case. You’ve saved lives. You’re a heroine.”
“More importantly, you’re back here with us,” whispered Aldon, tears in his eyes. “We couldn’t bear losing you, Tracy.”
“Welcome back,” Hunter agreed, emotionally.
Tracy felt herself smiling slowly then as the light in the room grew brighter and both Aldon and Hunter leaned closer and took her hands. It was great to be back where she belonged.
“Can’t wait for the next case,” Tracy whispered to them, feeling a sense of incredible joy to be fully alive again.