Carter

The hospital corridor was unusually quiet. The white walls, dim lighting, and the occasional footsteps of the medical staff created the feeling that time moved more slowly here. Beyond the operating room doors, a fight for someone's life was underway. Carter sat on a hard chair opposite the doors, his hands clasped. For a man who owned several companies and was used to controlling every minute of his day, waiting was the hardest ordeal.

The phone had been switched off in his jacket pocket for a long time. Assistants had called dozens of times, partners were waiting for a response on contracts, but none of that mattered now. He'd received a call a few hours ago.

— There was an accident.

Just two words. At first, Carter didn't believe it. Then he took off and rushed to the hospital faster than he could even comprehend what was happening. From then on, he didn't leave the operating room door. The doctors didn't promise anything. They just told him to wait.

Carter glanced up at the bright sign above the doors. The red light was still on. The operation was ongoing. He ran a hand over his face and exhaled heavily. Strange. Over the past few years, he'd seen companies collapse, people lose millions, partners betray each other for money. But none of it had left him with such a feeling of helplessness. Because this wasn't about business.

Now it was about you. About the person he considered one of the few he truly trusted. A nurse appeared in the hallway. Carter instantly rose to his feet.

• What's there?

The girl shook her head.

— The operation is not over yet.

And again, anticipation. He looked at the door. For the first time in a long time, Carter caught himself thinking he was ready to give up all his deals, all his money, and all his success for one simple thing. To hear the doctor say, "He/she can live. "