The heavy ER doors finally swung open, the rhythmic hiss of the pneumatic seal breaking the suffocating silence of the waiting room. A weary doctor emerged, peeling off his latex gloves with a slow, deliberate fatigue that mirrored the long hours of the night. He offered a small, reassuring nod.
"He's going to be alright," the doctor confirmed, his voice gravelly but kind. "Luiz is severely dehydrated and sporting some nasty bruises that will take time to yellow, but he's physically stable."
A collective breath, held for what felt like hours, finally escaped the room. However, the physician's expression remained professional and cautious. "The trauma—both physical and systemic—has taken a toll. He'll likely wake up in an hour or two, but he isn't out of the woods regarding recovery. I highly suggest you ensure he rests as much as possible over the next few days. No stressors, no excitement."
