Hannah and I gradually distanced ourselves from the others, and only when we were out of earshot did she lean in to whisper, "Things have taken a turn for the worse with Hazel. She had a shock earlier and they've taken her to the ER!"
I was taken aback. "Is it that serious?"
"She's been screaming all night, looks like she's genuinely terrified," Hannah shared, obviously concerned. "She's still in the ER, and I bet Jaylan's phone is off. Jesper's been trying to reach him, frantic with worry."
"That explains why Jessica was trying to call Jaylan first thing in the morning!" I said to Hannah, "She must have been up all night too, worn to a frazzle. After all, at Hazel's age, and with two nights of this, it's no surprise she's struggling."
"Do you think this will affect things here?" Hannah asked, "Should we do something about it?"
"No, let's wait and see how things unfold. As for impact... I doubt it, though Jaylan might have to head back sooner. Worst case, we wrap up the plans early, especially if time's getting squeezed." I pondered for a moment before pulling out my phone.
I dialed a number and soon enough, someone answered. "Dr. Dailey! I'm terribly sorry to bother you again, but could I ask another favor of you?"
"Go ahead."
I briefly explained Hazel's condition to Dr. Dailey and asked him if there was a way to prolong her stay in the hospital.
"Alright, I'll check it out," Dr. Dailey said before hanging up.
Hannah looked at me and said, "With Hazel's condition, Jaylan will definitely go back. But if we can buy a day or two, that should be enough."
"Keep me posted on any developments from Goldenvale Town," I instructed Hannah, taking a few steps before adding, "And get in touch with Sean. Tell him to get ready to break the story. This could be an opportunity! Send him the video from the memorial night too."
"Don't worry, I've already sent it to him," Hannah assured me, as reliable as ever. She had already taken care of what I had in mind.
"Then let's head in," I said, and with that, Hannah and I walked into the country club where the others had gone. We were promptly escorted to their private room.
Dad was in the middle of a tense conversation with Bennett about the earlier disruption caused by Kemp, and it was clear Dad wasn't pleased.
Bennett seemed unfazed as he remarked, "At tomorrow's shareholders' meeting, Kemp will find out the cost of leading this ruckus."
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