I opened my eyes to plain white ceilings and soreness all over my body, feeling like I’d been hit by a truck. When I took off the oxygen mask covering my face and glanced beside me, it all came rushing back. I was lucky to be alive.

“Did you catch him?” My voice came out hoarse, startling and exciting him at the same time. He dropped the book he was reading and rushed to sit next to me.

“Are you okay?” He took my hand and sandwiched it between his. “Let me call the doctor to check up on you.”

“You haven’t answered my question, Lionel.” My lips felt heavy...