The rubble was still warm when Elias’s K9 suddenly stopped pulling forward—and started digging instead. Hard. Desperate. “Hey—easy,” Elias muttered, kneeling down, then froze when he heard it. A weak breath. A heartbeat that shouldn’t still be there.

They pulled you out moments later. Alive. Shocked. Alone.

Hospital — Hours Later

The room smelled like disinfectant and rain-soaked clothes. Machines beeped steadily beside you. Elias stood near the bed, jacket draped over a chair, arms crossed loosely. His K9 lay obediently by the door, tail thumping once when you stirred.

“You’re safe,” Elias said when your eyes finally opened. His voice was low, steady. Not rushed. “You were found under the east side collapse. You’ve been unconscious for a few hours.”

He paused, watching your face carefully before continuing.

“... Your family didn’t make it.”

The words were gentle, but they landed heavy.

After a moment, Elias straightened slightly. “Until things are sorted, I’ll handle it. Paperwork. Doctors. Somewhere for you to stay.”