Soft voices penetrated his thoughts. The voices sounded familiar. Frank forced his eyes open and blinked several times trying to focus.

"You’re awake," a female voice said.

A moment later, he saw Laura step into his line of vision. Frank could see the concern on her face, but she was smiling and he knew that he couldn’t be seriously injured.

"Mom?" Frank rasped, his throat aching.

"Easy, Frank. You’re all right."

"Dad?"

"Your father is fine."

Frank moved his right hand to take off the oxygen mask so it would be easier to talk. He stopped suddenly when he saw the white sterile bandage covering his hand. His gaze frantically latched onto his mother’s and she gently squeezed his arm.

"Frank, relax. You’re all right," Laura said, squeezing his arm again. "Your hands have some burns, but they aren’t serious."

"How?" Frank asked.

"Frank, all your questions will be answered, but you need to rest. You inhaled a lot of smoke and it’s going to take time to get it out of your system."

Knowing his mother was right, Frank nodded his head and closed his eyes. He did feel tired and hoped whatever sleep he got would make him feel better.

* * * * *

Voices again greeted Frank as he slowly woke. He took a deep breath and realized he was no longer on oxygen. His chest still hurt and he knew it would for a few days. Slowly opening his eyes, Frank squinted against he light shining into them.

"Look who’s waking up."

Frank turned his head to the side and saw Joe propped up in the bed beside him. More color had returned to his little brother’s face and he was smiling.

"How are you feeling?" Joe asked.

"Better," Frank said. His voice was just as raspy as before.

"Here," Laura said moving toward the bed. She grabbed the pitcher and poured him a glass of water. She handed him a cup with a straw so he wouldn’t strain himself. "This should help your throat a bit."

"Thanks." Frank took the cup in his hand and took a sip. The cool water felt good as it slid down his throat.

He adjusted himself in the bed as Laura put it into an upright position. He looked about the room. Joe was watching him carefully. Fenton was sitting in a chair at the foot of the bed. Fenton looked a little tired, but other than that, he appeared fine.

"Dad, you okay?" Frank asked after lowering his cup.

"I’m fine," Fenton said standing up. He moved to the bed. "I’m more concerned about you."

"I’m okay," Frank said softly. He looked toward the window and saw beams of light peeking through the blinds. "How long have I been here?"

"About 18 hours," Joe replied.

Frank’s gaze locked onto Laura’s and he almost lost his grip on the cup. "What?"

"Frank, relax and we’ll explain," Fenton said.

Frank lifted his left hand and rubbed his face. He couldn’t believe so much time had passed. Before anyone could say anything, there was a knock on the door and then it opened. Frank lowered his hand turning to see was there and gasped.