Seeing me, Faith quickened her stride towards me. Over the past few days, her complexion had improved significantly, an indication that her condition was stable.
But Hiram's situation would undoubtedly add a psychological burden on her.
"Irene, you've been an immense help during this time, and we genuinely appreciate your willingness to assist us," Faith clasped my hand warmly, ever the gracious lady.
I shook my head, "It's okay, I promised to do my best."
Faith's eyes were filled with gratitude and guilt. Then she and Ryan went into the hospital room to visit Hiram. The moment these grandparents saw their grandchild, their eyes welled up with tears. They proceeded to comfort him, their hearts aching.
It was a time for the family, and I felt it was unnecessary for me to stay, so I quietly left.
To my surprise, Neil followed me out.
And I had a few things I wanted to discuss with him.
"Neil, will your parents be staying here in the next few days?" I asked Neil first.
Neil had been giving off a gloomy, indifferent vibe lately. He seemed highly stressed, as if he had a lot on his mind. I knew he was dealing with a lot, and none of it was pleasant, so I didn't expect him to be in a good mood.
Neil's brows were rarely relaxed these days. From the furrowed brow, I could tell his mood was anything but pleasant.
The fallout with Russel, Karina's deception, Hiram's illness, and everything with Louis—each issue was waiting for his attention and resolution.
"They probably will, but I'll make sure they go back home sooner. Why do you ask?" Neil's eyes flickered as he looked at me.
"I need to go see my kids for a couple of days, but I'll be back. I will take care of Hiram until he's done with his surgery, you can rest assured," I assured him. It wasn't because Neil asked me for help that I insisted on taking care of Hiram for so long, but purely because I felt sorry for the child.
Maybe it's because I'm a mother now, I can't bear to see children suffer, especially since Hiram has grown quite dependent on me.
Without any hesitation, Neil agreed, "Alright, my parents will be here for the next couple of days. Given the current situation, Karina likely won't take Hiram away without permission. If you're busy, I can arrange someone to take care of Hiram. You don't have to rush back."
"Good, I'll come back as soon as I can. If I am really tied up, I might come back a bit later," I heaved a sigh of relief, fearing that he might insist on needing me. Then I would have to rush to see my kids and parents, fearing something might happen here.
With Neil's response, I felt at ease to leave the hospital. Before I left, I informed Hiram, not wanting him to feel abandoned.
Hiram seemed reluctant when he heard I was leaving for a few days, "Ms. Finch, you must come back to see me soon."
"I will," I nodded, comforting him, "You have to be good and listen to the doctor. Eat your food and take your medication. Rest. After your surgery, I'll take you to Disneyland and buy you the latest gaming console, okay?"
"Okay!" Hiram's eyes lit up.
"Not yet, I was actually about to discuss it with you," I got up, "Let's talk in the living room."
My mom nodded and followed me out.
My mom was now my confidant. I didn't have to worry about her opposing or stopping me. Our relationship was back to the harmonious rapport we once shared. So I would tell her everything, unless it was something I didn't want her to worry about.
After hearing what happened in Rosemont, my mom's brows furrowed, "Why has everything become so complicated? What on earth does Karina want?"
"She probably still wants to marry Neil using the child, but Neil isn't following her plans. That's probably why she's collaborating with Russel," I sighed.
"How did Russel turn out like this?" my mom's words were filled with disappointment in Russel. She couldn't believe Russel had done such terrible things, "I always thought he was a good boy, someone who wished to be a doctor and save lives. How could he be so heartless?"
I couldn't answer my mom's question. People change, and no one can predict when that will happen.
Just then, a bout of coughing echoed down from upstairs, my father's voice. The coughing sound grew louder as he descended the staircase, one hand clutched over his chest, seemingly in significant discomfort.
My father was a smoker, which often led to bouts of coughing, but I'd never seen him this bad before. It was as if he was gasping for air between each cough. Spotting my mother and me in the living room, he managed to ask between coughs, "Rena, what brings you home?"
"I came to check on the kids, Dad. Have you been to the hospital for a full check-up yet? Especially your throat and lungs?" I asked with concern.
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