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Threw my gaze around the hospital like was looking for something, just to avoid the conversation.
I started noticing things I didn’t notice before. It was a cozy hospital room, designed just for kids like Michael. The walls were painted with soft sky blue and fluffy white clouds that seemed to float by when I stared at them.
Colorful drawings from other kids are pinned up, creating a cheerful gallery. I noticed a large window let sunlight pour in, casting a warm glow over the room. Also, a friendly and small giraffe-shaped lamp stood on the bedside table. It illuminated blue, green, and red lights.
My son’s bed was like a spaceship, complete with control panels and buttons. The sheets were soft and adorned with cartoon characters. Stuffed animals and plush toys were arranged around, making me feel uncomfortable, so I took my eyes off them immediately.
Next to Michael’s bed, a small play area held puzzles, crayons, and storybooks that could transport kids to exciting places.
I believe the nurses were like superheroes to him, with their brightly colored scrubs and the steady smiles they had on their faces. A big whiteboard was on the wall, and it displayed the daily schedule and health progress. A shelf stocked with board games and art supplies invited my attention.
Connected to the wall, there was a TV showing Michael’s favorite cartoons and shows, ensuring he didn't miss out on any fun while he was there. I saw the delight on his face to watch the cartoon. The room had a magical way of making time fly; it was evening already.
Michael stood up to go use the bathroom, and I helped him get there. I noticed the attached bathroom was painted in underwater scenes, making it feel like a secret underwater grotto. For some reason, he needed to throw up. It was probably the irritation from the hospital smell.
He went back to his bed and continued watching his cartons. Olivia and I shared a cozy corner with a fold-out bed. We sat there and the awkward moment continued.
My focus was still on my son. I could tell he felt like he was in a special place where he could heal, laugh, and dream.
“Why are you both so quiet?” Michael asked.
“There’s nothing to talk about, Michael,” I responded with a straight tone.
“Okay.” He went back to smiling at the TV.
“So…” she said.
“So…?” I asked.
She paused for a while to select her next words carefully. “So, I come to the house?” she asked.
I knew that wasn’t what she had in mind. The day was already weird enough and I didn’t want to make it more of what it already was. I swallowed and avoided eye contact with her.
“Yes, I told you that before,” I said.
“Yes, you did.” She retorted.
“Why then are you asking again?” I asked.
“What do you think?” She threw a question at mine.
I went quiet for a couple of seconds. My mind was blank. I couldn’t come up with anything to say. I examined and scrapped all the thoughts I’d had.
“The doctors have a lot on their hands today.” I brought up a meaningless conversation.
“Yes, they’re doctors. They work hard.” She responded. She knew I said that because I didn’t know what else to say, but she responded anyway. It was because she had nothing better to say herself.
“Why are we still here?” she asked. “Michael is already strong. We should get going.” She added. Olivia needed a way to escape the moment, and I did, too.
“The specialists said they needed to monitor him for another hour or more. We'll still leave today.” I said. My eyes flickered as I looked at her face. Then I immediately removed my gaze.
“Maybe I should get going.” She started. “My aunt will be worried.” She stood up, picked up her jacket, and threw it over her arm. “Michael,” she called out.
“Olivia.” Michael smiled.
“I’ll see you some other time, ok?” Olivia said as she returned Michael’s smile.
“Okay, Olivia.” He responded softly. His facial expression was enough. He didn’t want her to go.
