**Chapter 8: The Ambulance Ride**

The sound of sirens grew louder, and Lucas's heart racing with anticipation. He looked up, his eyes fixed on the door, waiting for the ambulance to arrive. Blanche was still trying to calm the baby, who was crying loudly in her arms. Lucas got up, his movements awkward, and walked over to the window. He pulled back the curtain and looked out into the night. The ambulance came into view, its lights flashing as it pulled up to the curb. Lucas felt a sense of relief wash over him. Help was finally on the way. He turned back to Blanche, who was watching him with a reassuring smile. "It's here," Lucas said, his voice shaking slightly. Blanche nodded, and together they carefully lifted Dorothy into a blanket. They wrapped her snugly, trying to keep her warm and comfortable. Lucas picked up the baby, who was still crying, and cradled him in his arms. The paramedics rushed into the house, their equipment at the ready. They quickly assessed Dorothy's condition and began to load her onto a stretcher. Lucas watched, feeling a sense of panic rising up inside him. "Can I ride with her?" he asked one of the paramedics. The paramedic nodded. "Yes, you can ride with her. But please, try to stay calm." Lucas nodded, taking a deep breath. He handed the baby over to Blanche, who was watching with a concerned expression. "Take care of her," Lucas said, his voice cracking. Blanche nodded, taking the baby from him. "I will, Lucas. Go with Dorothy. I'll take care of the baby." Lucas nodded, and followed the paramedics out to the ambulance. He climbed in beside Dorothy, taking her hand in his. The paramedics began to work on her, attaching monitors and IVs. As the ambulance pulled away from the curb, Lucas looked out the window, watching as Blanche's house disappeared into the distance. He felt a sense of worry and fear, but he was determined to stay strong for Dorothy. The ride to the hospital was a blur of sirens and lights. Lucas held Dorothy's hand, talking to her softly, trying to keep her calm. He didn't know if she could hear him, but he had to try. The paramedics were working hard to stabilize her, and Lucas could see the concern etched on their faces. He felt a sense of panic rising up inside him, but he pushed it down, focusing on the present moment. As they pulled up to the hospital, Lucas felt a sense of relief wash over him. They were going to get Dorothy the help she needed. He looked down at her, her face pale and clammy, and felt a pang of worry. But he was determined to stay strong, for her, for the baby, and for himself. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for what was to come. The paramedics quickly loaded Dorothy out of the ambulance, and Lucas followed close behind. They rushed her into the hospital, and Lucas was left standing in the emergency room, feeling lost and alone. But he knew he wasn't alone. He had the baby to think about, and Blanche, who was waiting for him with the little one. He took a deep breath, and began to make his way to the maternity ward, ready to face whatever the night had in store for them.