Chapter 34: Blue Velvet

The sterile smell of disinfectant lingered in the air, mingling with the faint scent of fresh linens in Abel’s room at Davises Medical Center. The rhythmic beeping of medical equipment provided a constant background hum, occasionally interrupted by the distant murmur of voices and the soft shuffle of footsteps in the hallway. Sunlight filtered through the blinds, casting stripes of light and shadow across the room, giving it an oddly serene yet clinical atmosphere.

Abel struggled to piece together the events that had unfolded, trying to differentiate between reality and the foggy remnants of his memory that landed him here. Each attempt to recall the details felt like grasping at smoke, leaving him frustrated and disoriented. He couldn't shake the unsettling feeling that something crucial had slipped through the cracks of his consciousness, leaving him with more questions than answers.

Dr. Harry Price walked into the room with a clipboard in hand. He was of a man of medium height, with dark hair and a mustache, though he was balding slightly. Despite this, he was undeniably handsome, with an olive complexion that gave him a healthy glow. Known to be a twin, Dr. Price had a reputation for his calm demeanor and sharp medical acumen. He gave Abel a reassuring smile before speaking. "Good afternoon, Abel. How are you feeling today?"

Abel shifted slightly in the bed, wincing at the dull ache in his head. "Better, I guess. Just a bit disoriented and anxious to get out of here."

Dr. Price nodded, taking a seat next to Abel's bed. "That's to be expected after a concussion. It's important to take it easy and let your body recover fully. I've reviewed your latest test results, and everything looks good. I'm confident you'll make a full recovery."

"That's a relief," Abel said, though his voice was tinged with unease. "What about the pain in my head?"

"I'll prescribe some painkillers for that," Dr. Price replied, jotting down a note on his clipboard. "They should help manage the discomfort. Remember to follow the dosage instructions carefully."

"Thank you," Abel said, then hesitated. "There's something else that's been bothering me. I haven’t heard from Zeno or Maynard, and Zaide told me that Ahab... Ahab is dead. He was shot in the house. I remember some of it, but it’s all so hazy."

Dr. Price's expression turned serious. "I'm aware of the situation. It's understandable that you're feeling disoriented given the trauma you've experienced. Your memory may take some time to fully return, but try not to stress about it too much. Focus on your recovery for now."

Abel nodded, though the uncertainty still gnawed at him. "What about Zelta? She hasn't woken up yet. Is she going to be alright?"

Dr. Price offered a comforting smile. "Zelta is in good hands. The medical team is doing everything they can to ensure her recovery. I'll keep you updated on her condition."

"I appreciate that, Harry," Abel said softly. "I just want to get home and figure this whole thing out."

"In due time," Dr. Price assured him, looking at his notes. "For now, rest and heal. We'll take it step by step." He met Abel’s eyes, "By the way, Inspector Kruse and Detective Crockett from the San Francisco Police are outside with questions about last night."

“What do they want?” Abel asked, a note of apprehension. “Is Zeno in trouble? Why hasn’t he been here yet?”

Dr. Price’s expression was calm, yet serious. “I’m not sure of the details, but it’s best to hear them out. They might have some answers for you too.”

Abel took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. “Alright, let them in. I need to know what’s going on.”

With a final nod, Dr. Price made his way to the door, leaving Abel to brace himself for the conversation ahead, his mind a whirl of uncertainty and resolve.
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