Did Barlow not make it?

Rosalynn's heart sank in an instant.

Despite the sweltering summer day, she felt as if she had fallen into an icy abyss.

Tears welled up in her eyes, and she instinctively turned to look at Karina.

Karina's face drained of color. She looked at the doctor blankly.

It was as if a sharp knife had pierced her heart, and the pain left her trembling.

Her body swayed slightly, and tears streamed down her face uncontrollably.

Fighting back her grief, Rosalyn whispered to Karina, "Stay strong,

Karina."

Karina held her hand tightly. Her voice trembled as she asked,

"Rosalynn, did you hear what the doctor said? Did he say they did everything they could? I must have misheard him, right?"

Rosalynn was overwhelmed with sorrow, and tears streamed down her face uncontrollably.

Desperate for reassurance Karina grabbed the doctor's arm, her voice breaking as she asked, Say it again, doctor. Are you telling us that he is okay?"

The doctor looked at Karina and said solemnly, “I'm really sorry, but the patient's injuries were severe. Despite our best efforts, he didn't make it."

Karina's eyes welled up with tears, her emotions overwhelming her.

She grabbed the doctor's collar and shouted, "No, I don't believe it!

Where is he? You can't take him away from me!"

The doctor gently but firmly freed himself from her grip and explained, "I understand your pain, but when the patient was rushed to the operating room, his breathing was very weak. Before we began the surgery, he left his last words. He said that if the rescue attempt failed, he wanted to be cremated immediately to spare his loved ones unnecessary suffering. His body has already been taken to the funeral home."

His words sent shockwaves through Rosalynn and the others.

Suddenly, Karina impulsively grabbed the doctor's collar again, her desperation evident.