Almost immediately, the group chat burst into virtual celebrations.
Karina sent a firecracker emoji, followed by Barlowâs confetti.
Lyndon and Tilda chimed in with their own cheerful emojis, painting the chat in a festive mood.
Then, a message from Maggie appeared, tinged with underlying concern.
âThank God, are you all okay?â
Her words were a veiled inquiry about Sanford.
Rosalynn glanced at the unconscious man on the bed, uncertainty clouding her thoughts on how to respond.
Brian, observing her dilemma, sighed and wrapped an arm around her shoulders.
âDonât mention Sanfordâs injury for now.
Weâll talk about it when we get back.
Iâm afraid Maggie will worry.â
Rosalynn nodded, understanding the delicacy of the situation.
âThen Iâll just reply that weâre all okay.â
âYes,â Rosalynn replied succinctly in the chat, adding, âWeâre all okay.â
Upon receiving her message, Maggie responded with a joyful emoji.
Her next message popped up quickly.
âWhen will you be back?â
The question hung in the air as Rosalynn turned to look at Brian, seeking his input.
Brianâs expression grew contemplative, his brow furrowing slightly.
âCan Sanford travel now?â
âYes, I can treat him once we are back home.â
âThen letâs wait for him to wake up.
Weâll head back tomorrow.â
âAlright.â
Rosalynn sent the return time in the group chat.
The group was soon abuzz with celebratory emojis.
Karina chimed in, âRosalynn, you guys should be home by tomorrow evening, right? WeâLl throw a welcome back party for you.â
Before Rosalynn could respond, Tilda interrupted with a message of her own.
âHey, Lyndon and I are still in Betton.
Letâs do it in a couple of days when Lyndon and I are back in Skrix.
Weâll have a welcome back party together then.â
Karina agreed, âThat works too.â
Rosalynn chose not to reply further; she decided to let them savor this joy for now.