The second day began with uncertainty.
Director Hayes was still alive.
That was the only good news anyone could offer.
Whether he would remain alive by sunset...
no one could say.
The intensive care unit remained sealed.
Only doctors and nurses were allowed inside.
Outside, the hallway had become the quietest place in the country.
Cabinet ministers arrived throughout the morning.
Military commanders came and went.
Foreign ambassadors sent messages of support. Religious leaders offered prayers.
None of it changed the blinking lights above Hayes' room.
Sebastian hadn't moved much.
He was still wearing yesterday's suit.
His tie had disappeared sometime during the chaos.
The sleeves of his white shirt remained stained with blood that no one had convinced him to change.
Vivian approached carrying a fresh cup of coffee. "You need something."
He accepted it without drinking.
"I don't deserve it." She sat beside him.
"Don't say that."
