~~ City Hospital ~~
Benedict's heart pounded as he felt Peony's blood on his hands. His hands drenched in the fresh pool of Peony's blood held his breath. "Peony...", his arms shaking.
He scrambled for his phone, dialing emergency services with trembling fingers. His voice was shaky and desperate as he gave their location, pleading for an ambulance.
Firmly pressing his handkerchief against her head, "Hang in there, Peony. Please, just hang in there," he whispered, his voice breaking.
Minutes felt like hours as he waited, his eyes never leaving Peony's pale face. The rain continued.
He cradled her gently, his own tears mixing with the rain still dripping from his hair. The ambulance's siren pierced the night, a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.