The moments dragged on, an eternity of helplessness. Then, finally, someone pushed through the crowd with urgency. It was my friend Lia, who had come to the party out of obligation more than genuine interest. She knelt beside me, her face a mix of concern and determination.
“Audrey, I’m here,” she said, squeezing my hand. Her presence was a lifeline, a connection to the world I was rapidly slipping away from.
“Lia, I can’t move,” I whispered, tears flowing freely now. “I need help.”
Without hesitation, Lia turned to the crowd, her voice cutting through the murmur of disbelief. “Someone call 911! Now! She needs an ambulance!”