Chapter 9 - The Cost of Staying
Robert had a setback.
It was not dramatic. His blood pressure spiked again after a minor infection. The doctor recommended another short hospital stay for monitoring. The insurance covered most of it. The rest still hurt.
Emma took two days off work and stayed at the hospital with him. Lily rotated in during the evenings. The hours blurred into fluorescent lights and the soft beep of monitors.
On the second night, while Robert slept, Emma stepped into the hallway to call Isabella and cancel the next day’s visit.
Isabella answered on the second ring. “Of course, dear. Family first. Tell your father I am thinking of him.”
Emma hung up and leaned against the wall. A nurse walked past with a tray. Somewhere down the corridor a television played a game show at low volume.
Her phone buzzed. Vincent.
How is he?
Emma typed: Stable. Resting. We’ll know more tomorrow.
A moment later: If you need anything practical—transportation, coverage at work—say so.
She stared at the message. Then she typed: I might need coverage for two more shifts. Thank you.
The reply came quickly: Done. Rest if you can.
Emma put the phone away and went back into the room. Robert opened his eyes when she sat down.
“You look tired,” he said.
“You’re one to talk.”
He smiled weakly. “You don’t have to carry all of it, Emma.”
“I know.”
“Do you?”
She did not answer. After a while he slept again. Emma stayed awake and watched the slow rise and fall of his chest, thinking about the difference between knowing something and being able to act on it.
When Robert was discharged again three days later, the apartment felt both smaller and safer. Emma returned to work. The shifts she had missed had been covered without comment. No one asked questions.
May you like
Victoria remained quiet. Emma did not trust the quiet.
