Chapter 10
10
Melia
H ugging my new found friends goodbye, I promise to keep in touch with Trish and climb into the helo. It’s not long before Silo lands us on the roof pad at the hospital where mom is being treated.
“Sweetness, your mom is here under a pseudonym. Jed was concerned for her safety. He also has one of our agents here with her.” He grins. “Your sister, Red.”
Walking into the room we discover Mom resting quietly on the bed. I know they have her drugged, but she seems so peaceful. A sound behind me has me turn.
A taller woman with long red hair smiles at me, before wrapping me in a comforting embrace. “Hey, sis. Glad you made it here safely. She’s been asking for you. Truthfully, I’m not sure she can tell us apart right now. They’re keeping her sedated, but it’s about time for her meds so she should be able to talk for a few.
“The specialist was planning on meeting with us, but she had an emergency. She said she’d give you a call later. I gave her your new number. But, we requested copies of all the documentation and reports to be sent to our friend Doctor Hayes, and he’s agreed to walk us through anything we don’t understand.
“The general gist is the tumor is about the size of a quarter. They’re trying noninvasive treatments first. She’s in good general health and they feel prognoses is good. Sit with her for a while, talk to her, let her hear your voice and your love surrounding her. I know you can’t stay long, sis. But I’m here for the duration. She won’t ever be alone.
“We’ll give you private time.”
Leaning over the bed, I kiss Mom on the forehead. Remembering all the times she did the same to me growing up sends tears streaming down my cheeks. I can’t lose her. She’s too young and she deserves so much more than she ever had. She deserves to be free, to live without fear.
I keep my voice low, the words quiet. “It’s gonna be okay, Mom. It’s just a booboo and it can be fixed. We’ll get through this and you’ll heal and be your old self-again.
“I finally met a man who makes my heart skip. He’s a good man. He’s helping take care of me, and you. I also made some new friends that inspire me. I’m going to get my education, but I may be changing my major.
“Momma, I promise by the time you’re well, we’ll be free. I was thinking maybe you’d like to finally go to cosmetology school. You’re still young and I know you still love it. We could get a little house or something off the island. I promise we’ll still be together. It’s gonna be a better life.”
I sit lost in thought, stroking her hand, thinking of all she gave up for me, her struggles. How she deserved more, but she chose to isolate herself to be a loving mom.
I don’t know how long I sit there stroking her hand in mine, lost in all my childhood memories. Too soon a warm hand slides down my back. Rhys kisses my cheek then places his other hand on Mom’s where they’re stacked on her stomach.
“Momma, I’m Rhys. We haven’t met properly yet, but we will soon. I promise to take care of our girl and you. As soon as you get well you can help us find a home big enough where we can all live. A place where you’ll always be safe and free to do what you want. We need to leave, but we’ll be back as soon as we can. Remember sissy Roja is watching over you. You do not need to be afraid. You’re safe. Rest and heal. We’ll see you again soon.”
I feel lost in a haze of sadness as he leads me from the hospital. I remember him hooking me into the seat and nothing after that.