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I hear my son’s voice for the first time in a year and he’s screaming my name. I drop to the floor, reaching for him as he comes around. He looks at me confused and delirious with fear. I reach for his hand and grip it in my own tightly. The minutes stretch on, each second feeling like an eternity as I cling to him, whispering soothing words, attempting to comfort him. Another seizure hits him and I’m shaking, tears blurring my vision.
“I’m here, Ethan,” I whisper, my voice filled with both fear and assurance. “You’re going to be okay. Help is on the way. Daddy’s called the hospital.”
The operator stays on the line, her voice a lifeline of support as I watch over Ethan. I try to remain as calm as possible, taking deep breaths to steady my racing heart. But it’s a struggle, as every fiber of my being longs for this nightmare to end and for my son to be safe.
Finally, the sound of sirens pierces through the air, signaling the arrival of the paramedics. I relay the information to the operator, my voice trembling with relief. I leave the phone on speaker as I run to unlock the front door.
As the paramedics rush into the room, their trained eyes assess Ethan’s condition with efficiency and care. They work quickly, their movements precise and calculated. I step back, allowing them the space they need to provide the necessary medical attention.
“What’s been happening, Dad?” they ask as they quickly check over him.
I can’t help but feel a mix of gratitude and anxiety as they work. Gratitude for their expertise and swift response, and anxiety for what lies ahead. I know that my son is in good hands, but the fear of the unknown lingers in the back of my mind.
“I woke up an hour ago and he had a fever. He’s had medicine but he just started seizing. I didn’t know what to do. His mother had epilepsy due to a brain tumor. It’s not that, is it?”
The paramedic looks at me sadly. “We can’t tell right now. But with such a high fever and the seizures, it’s best if we take him to the hospital, okay?”
I watch as the man picks him up, not bothering with a stretcher, and then I follow him as he runs down the stairs with him and into the ambulance.
“What do I do?” I ask helplessly.
I hover nearby, ready to offer any assistance they may need. Though my heart is heavy with worry, I draw strength from the sight of these dedicated professionals doing everything they can to help Ethan.
“Get dressed and pack him a bag. You can meet us at St. Mary’s Pediatrics.”
Then they’re gone. It’s as simple as that.
They’ve taken my son and I’m left standing in the driveway with no shoes on and shivering in my pajamas. I gulp and wipe my face where it’s wet with tears. Somehow, I need to do what they say. I hurriedly dress and grab my phone charger. Then grab Ethan’s things, packing his favorite bear, and some extra pajamas. I collapse on his bed for a moment, watching his night light project blue and red. I’m holding back a sob. His room looks so peaceful amidst the chaos of what’s just happened.
He can’t sleep without his nightlight; I think to myself stupidly but it’s enough to help me get up and pull myself together a bit.
I’d do anything to have Sarah here with me. She would tell me to stop panicking and would already have planned what we needed to do. But she’s not here. I’m never going to see her again. I need to do this alone. I grab the bag and then run downstairs, locking up the house before heading to my car.
Chapter 19
Lily
Thenextmorning,Iarrive at the breakfast cafe, dressed in my finest attire, ready for work. The black dress hugs my curves perfectly, accentuated by the bold red belt cinched around my waist. With each step, my Louboutin heels click against the floor, adding a touch of confidence to my stride. My hair cascades in soft curls around my shoulders, and my makeup is carefully applied, highlighting my features.
As I glance at myself in the mirror on the wall, a surge of pride washes over me. I’ve come a long way since the days of feeling unworthy and insignificant. Working at the jewelry store has allowed me to discover a newfound sense of self-worth and confidence. I’ve learned to embrace my beauty, both inside and out.
I sit down across from Matthew in the outside seating area, the clatter of plates and murmurs of conversation filling the air. My palms feel damp, a telltale sign of the anxiety bubbling within me but I don’t let it show. This meeting is supposed to be a chance to discuss our daughter’s future, but I can already sense the tension hanging in the air. It’s not going to be easy.
“Hi,” I say awkwardly as I sit down.
“Hey,” he replies, doing a double take when he sees me.
I can sense Matthew’s surprise as his eyes meet mine, his expression momentarily frozen. Gone are the days when his hurtful words pierce through my soul, eroding my self-esteem. I’m no longer that fragile girl he once knew, desperate for his validation. I’ve moved on, and Blake’s unwavering love and support have helped me see my own worth. Despite Matthew’s shocked reaction, I refuse to let it faze me. It’s his loss, not mine. I’ve found someone who cherishes and uplifts me, who sees the strength and resilience that were hidden beneath the scars of my past. The mirror may reflect my external transformation, but the true change lies within.
“That’s a nice car that you pulled in with,” he comments.
Past Lily would have shrunk at the comment, especially since the car was a gift from Blake.
“Thanks, it’s new,” I counter.
It’s none of his business where I got my shiny new car. I’m not going to let him ruin it for me. I love the car and Blake has felt so much better knowing I can get around safely.
“Anyway, we’re not here to talk about me,” I say, changing the subject. “You said you have a new job?” I prompt him.
