Waylen gripped his phone tightly, affirming his commitment, “I’ll be there right away.”
Placing the phone down, he shifted his gaze towards Rena.
Rena overheard the conversation. In a gentle tone, she advised, “Go ahead. Make haste but drive safely.”
A nervous lump formed in Waylen’s throat, causing his Adam’s apple to bob.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtIn truth, he deeply desired Rena’s company, wishing to introduce her to his beloved grandmother, Betty. However, he pondered the possibility that Rena might decline due to the complexities of their relationship. Even if she agreed to accompany him, she would likely feel embarrassed.
After contemplating for a while, Waylen murmured under his breath, “I might be occupied for some time.”
Rena’s demeanor softened, indicating her newfound warmth.
When she got out of the car, Waylen suddenly rolled down the window and said to her, “Rena…”
Standing amidst the nocturnal surroundings, she waved him forward, declaring, “Go ahead.”
Waylen’s gaze lingered on her momentarily before he pressed on the accelerator.
A two-hour journey lay ahead as Waylen drove towards the eastern suburbs. His grandmother, Betty, who was Korbyn’s mother, had been residing there for an extended period due to the favorable air quality and conducive environment for recuperation.
Tonight marked a fateful occurrence, as Betty’s impending demise loomed. Delirium had overtaken her since dusk.
The nurse urgently summoned the family. Korbyn arrived and comprehended Betty’s imminent passing, prompting him to summon Betty’s children and grandchildren, urging them to bid their final farewells.
As the eldest son, Korbyn held a prominent position, while Waylen stood out as the most exceptional member of the younger generation. Betty held a special fondness for Waylen.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmDrawing her last breath, Betty patiently awaited Waylen’s arrival.
Parking the car, Waylen hastened to Betty’s bedroom. The entire Fowler family made way for him, granting him access. Korbyn leaned in close to Betty’s ear and whispered, “Mother, Waylen has returned to see you.”
Betty teetered on the edge of life.
Yet, upon hearing footsteps, her eyes gradually fluttered open, revealing a glimmer of recognition.
Her gaze exuded a remarkable clarity.
Korbyn recognized this phenomenon as terminal lucidity. Betty had been waiting all this time for her grandson to return and exchange a few words with him….
True to form, Betty sat upright.
Waylen swiftly approached, squatting before her, clasping her frail hand and tenderly kissing it.
Betty extended her trembling hand to caress his hair.