“She’s alive,” Kevin said.
Upon hearing those two words, Bradley and Xara both let out relieved sighs.
“But it’s not much different from being dead.”
Bradley snarled. “Kevin Slade!”
Massaging his nose bridge, Kevin replied hoarsely, “Bradley, getting angry won’t help. Thanks to you, Esther’s
immune system is nearly destroyed, and her condition is dire. Prepare yourself for what’s to come.”
Puzzled, Xara asked, “Isn’t Dr. Foster her doctor? Can’t she do something?”
“Dr. Sadler, do you know how many things Esther has had since leaving prison? Bone marrow donation, abortion,
liver donation, and now a head injury. I don’t know what she endured during this time, but she has many wounds
and scars.
“These untreated injuries have led to infections, and she’s now dealing with gastritis and nephritis. Thankfully, her
immune system hasn’t completely collapsed yet. It’s all in God’s hands.”
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtBradley slowly released his grip on Kevin. “You mentioned she has gastritis?”
Kevin replied, “Do you know what she went through in prison? Did you ensure she had proper nutrition when you
took her away?
“How did she sustain those injuries? You know the answer. Did you consider the risk of infection after she was hurt?
Have you thought about the toll your violence took on her?
“Luckily, Felix isn’t here. If he knew how you treated Esther, how do you think he’d react?
“If you want Esther to die, then carry on with your violence! Just don’t expect us to save her in the future. We won’t
be able to!”
Xara wiped tears from her eyes’ corners and asked, “Dr. Slade, can I visit her?”
“You can’t. She’s in the ICU. Can she wake up? When will she wake up? It’s all uncertain,” Kevin said helplessly. “If
you truly care for her, look after Felix for her.”
“Okay,” Xara said, sitting down in silence.
Bradley stood alone, engulfed in desolation.
Kevin gave him a long, wordless look.
Esther was admitted to the ICU, and Agatha stayed by her side while Xara and Steffan took care of the children.
–
The next morning, the storm had subsided, revealing the sun and a beautiful rainbow.
Agatha tenderly stroked Esther’s hair and said, “Esther, the rainbow comes after the storm. Look, today’s rainbow
is exceptionally beautiful.”
Esther still didn’t wake up.
“You’re only halfway through your medical training; don’t give up now.
“Esther, I’m waiting for you.
“Felix is waiting for you too.”
–
Esther remained in the ICU for three days. Despite Agatha’s continuous care, there was no sign of her awakening.
Kevin wanted to suggest several times that it might be good to let Felix or Bradley visit, but he couldn’t bring
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmhimself to say it.
Agatha looked at Esther and hesitated. “Kevin, go bring Felix in to talk to his mom.”
“Bradley has been wanting to see Esther,” Kevin mentioned.
Agatha snickered. “Let him see her then. He should witness the consequences of his actions.”
–
After leaving the ICU, Kevin told Bradley and Felix, “Dr. Foster has agreed to let both of you see Esther.”
“Really?” Felix asked excitedly.
“Yes, really.”
When Bradley and Felix entered the ICU, Agatha stroked Felix’s face and reminded him, “Felix, protect your mom.”
“I will, Grandma Foster.”
Esther had various tubes going in and out of her. When Felix saw her in her current state, tears instantly welled up
in his eyes.
“Mommy! Don’t die!” Felix rushed over and tightly held Esther’s hand.
Bradley stood at the foot of the bed and looked at Esther’s lifeless face, clutching his own heart.