Reborn, Reawakened, Rekindled novel Chapter 544

"It's just the same old issue. I'm tired of going for check-ups every now and then. Don't worry, kiddo," Dad mumbled, pouring himself a glass of water to soothe his throat, acting nonchalantly about his health.

But I couldn't shake off my worries. At their age, my parents were more susceptible to health problems. Mom had already given me quite a scare before. I couldn't bear the thought of Dad having any health issues now.

I insisted on Dad going for a medical check-up.

"I'll accompany you to the hospital first thing in the morning. You must get checked!" I was adamant, giving Dad no chance to refuse.

Dad and Mom exchanged glances. Mom nodded in agreement. "Listen to Rena, you old chain-smoker. You've been smoking for decades; your lungs are definitely worse off than average. Better to take precautions."

Dad sighed helplessly. "Can you blame me? It's hard to avoid cigarettes and alcohol; it's a habit I picked up over time. Fine, fine, I'll go with Rena to the hospital, but you'll have to manage the business."

"I will. Your health is more important!" Mom replied.

It had been a while since our family had a proper conversation together. The last time I came home, Dad wasn't around. I left after a night's stay, so we had plenty to catch up on this time. We talked until I eventually dozed off on the couch.

I was supposed to accompany Dad to the hospital, but I overslept till noon. The laughter of children outside woke me up, and I realized I was home.

I rubbed my eyes and stepped out to see Dad playing with Serena and Brandon in an inflatable pool. The sight of me excited them, and they began waving their tiny hands for me to hold them.

Children grow and change so quickly. Serena and Brandon seemed chubbier and livelier than before. They could recognize people and demand cuddles; it was adorable.

I picked up Serena first, showering her with kisses, and then turned to Dad. "Dad, why didn't you wake me up earlier? Weren't we supposed to go to the hospital?"

"What's the rush? You looked so wiped out. If you were still a child, I would have carried you upstairs. The couch isn't as comfortable as your bed." Dad replied with a chuckle.

Warmth filled my heart, but it was quickly replaced with sadness. It was hard to see Dad aging so fast; it made everything seem more real.

As our parents age, it's even more important for them to take care of their health.

"I'm not tired. As long as you and Mom are healthy, that's all that matters. The biggest blessing for our family would be to have no health issues." I put Serena down and picked up Brandon, trying to be fair to both.

"Don't worry, your mother and I are in good health!" Dad waved his hand dismissively.

Despite his assurance, I couldn't shake off my unease. So, after lunch, I insisted on taking Dad to the hospital for an annual check-up, which he sometimes skipped. I had to keep an eye on him.

We arrived at the hospital around 2 p.m. Thanks to the VIP service, we didn't have to wait long. Dad had a comprehensive examination, especially for his heart and lungs. I made him undergo a couple of extra tests for peace of mind.

But as it was getting late and Dad had several tests, the results couldn't be produced immediately. We were asked to return home, and they would inform us when the results were ready.

Just then, I heard familiar footsteps on the other end, followed by Neil's voice. "Hello?"

Relieved to hear his voice, I asked, "Hiram just told me there's no suitable medicine for him. What does he mean by that?"

Neil walked out of the room, probably not wanting Hiram to overhear our conversation. After a pause, he finally answered, "Well, we haven't found a compatible bone marrow donor yet. We're still looking."

So, Hiram meant there was no compatible bone marrow for him? This was distressing news. "What about you and your parents? Aren't you compatible?"

Neil gave a short, cold laugh before answering, "No, so I'm looking for other donors."

His words made me even more worried. The chances of finding a match were higher among blood relatives. I sighed, feeling torn. I felt for Hiram, but I couldn't risk my own children.

"Alright, I'll be there in a few days." I had nothing else to say. If the worst were to happen to Hiram, all I could do was spend more time with him and make him happy.

"He really misses you, you know. You've got quite the charm these days. The last time he mentioned you, he was all gritted teeth and clenched fists. Not even his grandparents, as wise and old as they are, could calm him down," Neil said, a rare smile playing on his lips.

A question formed in my mind. "Neil," I asked, "Do you truly, deeply care for Hiram?"