Moments later, the wailing of sirens filled the air, drawing everyone’s attention. The paramedics arrived swiftly, their professionalism a balm to my frayed nerves. They asked questions, their voices calm and focused, as they assessed the situation. I could see the shift in their expressions when they realized the gravity of my condition.

The world around me retreated as they immobilized my neck and carefully lifted me onto a stretcher. My father’s protests faded into the background, overshadowed by the urgency of the paramedics’ actions. Jason’s smug grin finally faltered, replaced by a look of uncertainty that almost seemed like regret.